Substance and Style

    Sponsor A Nonprofit Fundraising Event to Give Your New Business A Boost

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    If you’re just starting out and you need to stretch your advertising budget as far as possible while getting an excellent ROI, you should consider sponsoring a nonprofit’s fundraising event. While most of them will not call sponsorship an advertising opportunity, that’s exactly what it is. Here are some of the benefits you’ll reap:

    1. At the very least, you can expect advertising space or your company’s name (depending on sponsorship level) in the event program, which will be distributed to all the event guests, other sponsors, and probably online.
    2. You can also expect to be acknowledged on the organization’s social media channels, website, and newsletter. You may also be listed in their annual report.
    3. Most of the time, the organization creates signage with sponsor’s logos that they display at the event and at their headquarters afterward. 
    4. Sometimes, there are even more advertising perks. Charity golf tournaments, for example, almost always give out swag bags to their players. Sponsors at all levels are usually invited to supply items for it. Any promotional items you have (pens, magnets, cups, etc.) can go in here, along with your business card.
    5. You can get a lot of mileage out of your sponsorship by announcing it yourself on your website, social media, and other communication channels. You can also write about why this cause aligns with your values and show your customers what you really care about.
    6. If you provide goods or services to other businesses, you have a way to warm up cold calls or pitches with other businesses that sponsor the same event.
    7. Most or all of the sponsorship will be tax deductible. The nonprofit will supply you with this information. Usually everything you pay is tax deductible unless your sponsorship level comes with a meal, the cost of which is not tax deductible. 
    8. It’s easy to do. Search for upcoming events near you or find a nonprofit doing work you admire and check their website for upcoming events. If you can’t find any, reach out to their development or marketing department. 
    9. It’s a way to promote your business while also doing something good for the world that you can feel good about. Nonprofit organizations, especially ones that are small and local, are always so appreciative of support.