Whether your event is being sponsored by a big name brand or a local non-profit organization, it’s important to incorporate fresh strategy for attracting and retaining event sponsors.
Once you’ve found the perfect sponsors for your event, the first step is to communicate with your sponsors to understand the message they are wanting to convey, and how you can help them without disrupting the attendee experience. You will want to shape your sponsorship proposal around that core message.
Below we highlight ways to put your sponsors in the spotlight:
Go Digital
Sponsorships shouldn’t only be visible during the event! Highlighting your sponsors with a custom banner on your website or within your digital marketing materials will help to show gratitude and affirm your partnership long after your event ends. If you’re hosting a virtual event, you might consider selling ad space on your live stream, or even using branded transitions between speakers or slides.
Scavenger Hunt
Hosting a virtual scavenger hunt is a fun way to highlight your sponsor and interact with your customers! By using tools pre-built into Saffire software, it’s easy to create a custom problem-solving journey that will drive traffic and improve engagement while allowing you to collect data and capture sponsor revenue. Sponsors may also choose to offer prizes to raise the stakes of the hunt.
Leverage Social Media
A strong online presence can reach far beyond just those who attended your event, and there are several ways you can utilize your social media to gain exposure. Update the headers on your Facebook and Twitter accounts before the event to feature the logos from your sponsorship and don’t forget to cross-promote and celebrate the work of your sponsors!
Offer a Photo Booth
Set up a fun social photo booth for guests to take pictures, GIFs, or TikToks! Use a backdrop with your sponsor’s logo and create a fun theme with props or signs. Pictures or videos that are uploaded with an event hashtag (which could also include a sponsor’s brand) are some of the most potent social content your attendees can share at an event.
Fun Swag
Have some swag to offer that is tailored to your guests and the event! An outdoor gear company for example may sponsor an environmental fundraiser by providing branded reusable straws. This also gives you an opportunity to offer a high-end, premium swag bag. Sponsors can reach high-tier ticket holders with more unique swag offerings.