#AskRude: How do I find sponsors?

Dear Rude,

I run a small production company and I’m ready to expand. I would like to know, what’s the best way to go about attaining sponsors?  What are the proper steps to take?

Tay Reese, 23, New York

Dear Tay,

 Finding sponsorship is actually something that I have just began to indulge in myself. And like you I was VERY lost but it really is not as hard as it seems. The hardest part is the time it takes to do it. That’s where I have been dropping the ball. 

Firstly you need to do research. Look for brands that will work well with the event that you are trying to create. If you’re having a stripper party you certainly don’t want Gerber as a sponsor. It all has to work well together.

Now once you figure out who you want to sponsor you decide what kind of sponsorship you will be requesting. There’s promotional sponsorship, financial sponsorship and then there is everything else. So lets say you want to have drinks but you cant afford it, that is when you look for a liquor sponsor. It all depends on what you need.

When all of those kinks are worked out write a proposal, it will also be a good idea to have a press release that you can send with it. In the proposal include what the event is about, the purpose and what you need assistance with and why. Don’t forget that everything needs to be very professional, well organized and to the point. Be intriguing and make them believe in your brand and what it is that you are trying to create. Paint a picture!

Now, I know you’re wondering how to get in touch with a potential sponsor. That’s easy as well. Most brands have a link at the bottom of their website that says “sponsorship” or “donations”. Essentially sponsorship is a donation.  Now, when you click there you will be greeted by one of two things; a sponsorship application or an email address to request sponsorship. I tend to do the application and then still sift around for an email address. Most companies don’t want direct contact but I hate waiting so I find it and contact them anyone.

Be ready to wait at least a month for a response SO start planning your event early!

I wish you luck and stay in touch and tell me how it all goes. And I better be getting an invite somewhere.

Madd Love,

Rude