Securing community sponsors can be a game-changer for your school’s next reading fundraiser, but it is also a daunting task. It can be intimidating to ask businesses for funds, and it takes a well-organized effort to yield results. The extra work can be worth it—not only do sponsors provide financial support, but they also help generate buzz and credibility for your event. If you’re looking for ways to attract local businesses and organizations to back your fundraiser, here are ten tactical tips to get you started.
1. Start Early and Plan Ahead
One of the most important strategies is giving yourself enough time to plan and approach potential sponsors. Businesses often plan their budgets months in advance and may allocate a certain dollar amount to sponsorships each year. Starting early will allow you to secure funding before those funds run out and provide enough time for any busy decision-makers to get back to you. Ideally, you should start approaching sponsors at least 2-3 months in advance. Generally speaking, the smaller the sponsor (read: ”less corporate”), the less lead time they will need to make a decision, and the fewer layers of approvals you will need to go through to get to a "yes".
2. Know Your Audience and Align Interests
When approaching potential sponsors, highlight how your event aligns with their business goals or community interests. For example, local bookstores or tutoring companies might have a vested interest in supporting a reading initiative. You may also find sponsors interested in reaching out to the parents in your community, such as local real estate agents, construction companies, or summer camps. Tailor your pitch to show how supporting the fundraiser benefits them.
3. Create a Sponsorship Package
A well-crafted sponsorship package is essential. It should outline different levels of sponsorship and the benefits of each tier, such as logo placement, social media mentions, or event signage. Make it easy for businesses to understand what they’ll get in return for their contribution. Consider offering exclusive branding opportunities, like sponsoring a specific aspect of the event (e.g., “Presented by XYZ Company”). For in-kind donations, showcasing the sponsor while presenting their prize is a great way to highlight their contributions, as well. In Beanstack, sponsors receive prominent placement on your fundraiser’s landing page. You can offer this Beanstack placement to potential sponsors, which includes a logo, a link to their website, and a short description of their services.
4. Leverage Parent Connections
Your school community is filled with parents who may have connections to local businesses, work for companies that offer corporate sponsorships, or own small businesses. Ask parents directly if they can facilitate an introduction or connect you with decision-makers at businesses they know.
5. Highlight Tax Benefits
Remind potential sponsors that donations to a school fundraiser are often tax-deductible. This can be a big motivator for businesses, especially those looking to maximize their tax savings before the end of the year. Be sure to provide them with the appropriate tax documentation after they commit to sponsoring.
6. Showcase Your Fundraiser’s Impact
Sponsors want to know their money is making a difference. Provide data or testimonials from past fundraisers to showcase the impact of your reading program on students' lives. For example, highlight how the funds will go toward new books, reading resources, or literacy initiatives that will improve student outcomes.
7. Leverage Restaurant and Retail Sponsors for Food-Based Incentives
Food-based incentives are an incredibly popular way to get students engaged in your fundraiser, and they appeal to students at all grade levels. Offering these types of prizes can motivate students while giving sponsors a chance to promote their businesses to families in your community. It’s a win-win for everyone involved! Partner with local restaurants and retailers to provide enticing, food-based incentives for your reading fundraiser. Many brands are eager to get their products in front of your community and can offer gift cards, meal vouchers, or even host celebratory events for you to use as prizes. For example, a local ice cream shop may want to sponsor free scoop coupons for all kids who reach a certain reading or donation milestone. Or a pizza shop may sponsor a “Homeroom Pizza Party” for the classroom that raises the most funds.
8. Use Social Media to Promote Sponsors
Small businesses often look for affordable ways to increase their online presence. Promote sponsors on your school's social media accounts before, during, and after the event. You could also offer to feature them in newsletters, flyers, or announcements, extending their visibility to your community.
9. Consider In-Kind Sponsorships
Not all sponsors need to provide monetary support. Offer local businesses the option to contribute products or services instead. In-kind donations, such as providing snacks for the event, printing services for promotional materials, or gift cards for prizes, can be just as valuable as cash sponsorships. This also makes it easier for smaller businesses to participate without stretching their budgets.
10. Always Follow Up with Gratitude
After your fundraiser, it’s crucial to thank your sponsors properly. Send personalized thank you notes and tell them what their donation has helped support. Share the success of the event with them, including photos, videos, your final fundraising totals, and how many participants your fundraiser had.
Community sponsorships can elevate your school’s reading fundraiser by enhancing its visibility and providing valuable resources. By using these tactical tips, you can build meaningful relationships with local businesses and ensure that your event is a resounding success for years to come! For more information on managing community sponsors in Beanstack, visit our help center for additional resources. New to Beanstack? Schedule a demo to learn more about reading fundraisers.