When directing a road race, especially when trying to raise money for a charity, it is always nice to have sponsors regardless of what distance your race is. Sponsors can donate specific amounts of money to mitigate the costs of things like racing t-shirts, medals, or food after the race. Having sponsors for your race will allow you to donate all, or nearly all, of the money you receive from race registration fees. Approaching sponsors, therefore, is an important task. There are a few things you can do to prepare for and request sponsorships.
Instructions
1. Determine your funding needs. Smaller races with fewer participants will require fewer sponsorship funds. The amount of money you will need also depends on the amenities you are wishing to provide your runners (pre- or post-race food, awards, timing, etc). The more you wish to provide, the more money you will have to ask for.
2. Determine what you will offer your sponsor in exchange for his donation. Many sponsors will be satisfied if you agree to put their company logo on the back of your race t-shirt. Sponsors making a significant donation will likely require a larger gesture, such as including the name of their company in the race or extra signage at the finish line. Be creative as to what you can offer them.
3. Assemble a sponsorship package for your potential sponsor. This packet should include information about your race. It should also include information about your organization and the charity organization you are working with. Make sure to outline exactly what you expect the sponsor to donate to you, as well as what you anticipate being able to give to the sponsor in return. The packet should also have a race registration form, with the offer of a free entry with sponsorship.
4. Make an appointment to meet with your potential sponsor. Show up to your meeting dressed professionally (remember, you are representing your running group as well as your charity partner) and be prepared to answer any questions about the race, your organization, or your charity organization. It might be beneficial for larger sponsors if you have someone representing both the running group and the charity partner at the meeting.
