You can put together auction fundraisers with a tiny budget. The
key is finding sponsors. They can provide resources and/or support you need without
your having to pay for it! This is a fundraiser. You can do it
without spending any money!
Here are the three steps BEFORE you approach sponsors...
- Determine who to contact
Put together a list of ideal prospects then put together a list of
who could contact them. Who do you know? Your
committee members? Your Board Members? Your Friends? Your
Spouse? Your Relatives?
Everything at
an auction can be sponsored! From the computers to run your event,
software and credit card terminals, venue, food and beverages, printing of
auction catalogs and signage, even auction paddles! Have everything
underwritten. Create a sponsorship package that's a good deal for the
sponsor, and you have a win-win. Give them first right of refusal for
the next year as soon as this event ends, and tie it up in writing, so your
next event will be on the way a year before you start!
- Determine what sponsors receive
Sponsors want to be recognized. Ultimately, they hope to attract
new customers, elevate themselves in their prospects eyes, show off to a
group that's important to them. What signage at the event will they
receive? Will they be included in press-release, newsletters, ezines,
on your website prior to the event? Will they receive ads in any of
these venues? Where will their logos appear (invitations, catalog,
websites, posters, signage at event, auction paddles, be creative)?
The more you can offer them, the more likely they will be to participate.
Give sponsors the "star treatment"! Invite them to the event.
(If they attend, they'll probably become large buyers as well!)
Introduce them to the audience. Make them important. Gush over
how generous they are and how much they are appreciated.
- Trust
Know that what you are offering sponsors and what they will be
receiving is good for them. If you come from this position, you should
be comfortable asking them to participate, because you are giving them an
opportunity. If you feel the offer is one-sided, you will be
uncomfortable asking, and they will be uncomfortable giving. So trust
that what you put together is a win-win.