Obtaining a corporate sponsorship for an event can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can be a rewarding experience. Here are some key steps to follow when seeking a corporate sponsorship:

  • Choose companies with values more aligned to yours: It is essential to select companies whose values and mission align with yours. This will help ensure that the sponsorship will be a good fit for both parties and can lead to a more long-lasting relationship. Look for companies that have a history of supporting events similar to yours or have expressed an interest in supporting organizations that align with your mission.
  • Look for companies that you can access through your network (e.g., companies that recruit from your university, where your classmates / colleagues work). Reaching out to companies for sponsorship after being referred by someone internally increases your chances of success compared to cold-emails. 
  • Look for sponsorship from other IEEE organizational units, and build partnerships with them. You can offer them the recognition of “event partners” while they contribute with monetary support. This can be you section, IEEE chapters or societies, and IEEE Affinity Groups. 
  • Give something back to them: When seeking a corporate sponsorship, it is crucial to think about what you can offer the sponsor in return for their support. This can include providing exposure to their brand, access to your audience, or providing them with exclusive perks or benefits that they wouldn’t have otherwise. It’s important to create a sponsorship proposal that outlines what you can offer the sponsor and how they will benefit from supporting your event.
  • Have a strong, clear, engaging proposal: A well-written proposal is crucial when seeking a corporate sponsorship. It should be concise, engaging, and clearly outline the benefits of supporting your event. Be sure to highlight how the sponsorship will help the sponsor achieve their goals and how they will benefit from being associated with your event.
  • Don’t wait until right before your event to ask for a sponsorship: It’s essential to start seeking a corporate sponsorship well in advance of your event. Many companies have a budget cycle, and it’s important to give them enough time to consider your proposal and allocate funds for your event. Waiting until the last minute can make it difficult for the sponsor to justify the expense and may result in a missed opportunity.
  • If you know how much money you need, ask for it outright: When seeking a sponsorship, it’s essential to be clear about the amount of money you need. This will make it easier for the sponsor to consider your proposal and make a decision.
  • Reach out again if you don’t hear back: If you don’t hear back from a potential sponsor, don’t give up. It’s important to follow up and reach out again. Sometimes, sponsors are busy or may have missed your initial proposal. Sending a polite follow-up email or making a phone call can help keep your event top of mind and increase your chances of securing a sponsorship.

In conclusion, obtaining a corporate sponsorship requires careful planning, research, and a well-crafted proposal. By following these steps and being persistent in your outreach, you can increase your chances of securing a sponsorship and making your event a success.