KATHY'S KORNER
Sponsorship Information
Securing a corporate sponsor for your events is a great way to stretch your group’s treasury. When a sponsor covers event expenses, registration fees can go directly toward your scholarship funds and/or general accounts.
Where do I find a sponsor?
Start with alumni in the area, many professionals would love to sponsor an event where they could get there name in front of fellow OSU alumni.
Approach new business owners in your area, they’re always looking for ways to grow by reaching new clients.
Turn customer loyalty into a sponsorship by talking to a restaurant, dry cleaner, lawn service, or shop that is popular with your members.
Assign responsibility for obtaining sponsorships to one person in your group but encourage everyone to generate ideas.
What should I offer?
Sponsors want to have their name mentioned as much as possible. Be sure to include the company’s name and logo on your invitations and Web site.
If you are having a special guest, offer your sponsor an opportunity to have photos taken with this person before the event.
Your club or society should give sponsors a chance to interact with event attendees and pass out marketing materials.
Ask your emcee to thank your sponsor at the event.
What about my sponsorship agreement?
Get any sponsorship agreement in writing. The agreement should include an overview of the project (dates, timetables, and purpose of project) and budget (anticipated costs and revenues).
Do not sign any long term agreement that requires any financial commitment.
Review how much visibility will be given to your group and the sponsoring entity.
Make sure the sponsor’s product or service complies with the Alumni Association’s advertising policy. The Association does not accept advertising for:
- alcoholic beverages
- tobacco
- personal hygiene products
- advocacy positions (political, philosophical, religious, moral, etc.)
- contributions for purpose not directly affiliated with or benefiting The Ohio State University or the Association
What about after the event?
Your club or society president should send a thank you note immediately after the event.
Follow up with your sponsors a few weeks after the event. Ask what they liked and how they benefited from working with you.
Email Kathy Bickel (bickel@ohiostatealumni.org) with any questions about sponsor agreements.
