"Alice cuts
right to the chase! She understands corporate and non-profit
partnerships better than anyone I know."
Deputy
Director, Harvard University Art Museums
11 TIPS HOW TO TURN A CORPORATION
INTO A SPONSOR
Think Like a Corporation
Marketing (not philanthropy) dollars require
you to meet business objectives. Help your sponsor showcase products,
cultivate prospects, or penetrate a demographic audience. Show
them how you can help their business.
Do your Homework
You can never do too much research.
Give Plenty of Lead Time
Be considerate. It always takes longer than
you think.
Don't Tell Your Life Story
Keep it brief and simple. If they want more,
they'll ask for it.
Learn from Rejection
Look at "no" as an opportunity
to understand the funder.
Think Beyond Direct Dollars
Be creative. A "fully-loaded"
package can include far more than cash.
Set Clear Objectives
From the start, be clear about what you
and your sponsor each want to accomplish. Don't surprise them.
Create a Partnership
Execute together. Don't let the sponsor
write a check and walk away.
Remember the Employees
In today's stressful environment, benefits
boost employee morale.
Don't be a Telephone Pest
Email is often more effective than the telephone.
Distance often works
to your advantage.
Measure and Evaluate
Document your success and learn from your
mistakes.
