How to Get Sponsors for Sports

Sports are available to people of all ages and different skill levels. From team competitions such as football and soccer to individual activities like tennis and golf, sports play a major role in the lives of many youth and adults. Putting a team on the field or an individual on the court is an often expensive proposition. Sponsorships from business and corporate entities are an attractive means of support for many teams. As challenging as the sports themselves can be, obtaining sponsorship is often times equally challenging.

Things You'll Need

  • Company profiles
  • Contact information
  • Request or proposal
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Evaluate the position of the player or team in regards to requesting sponsorship. Look at the strength of the conference and non-conference schedule and resulting record. Position a player or team to prepare for potential sponsorship with a stronger schedule and increased offseason work for example.

    • 2

      Set a goal for what you want to obtain from a business or corporate sponsor. Determine ahead of time what you, the organization or school, are willing to provide in the short and long term to a sponsor.

    • 3

      Research potential business or corporate sponsors to better understand their position on sponsorship. Use the information gathered to concentrate on those companies with a record of sponsoring individuals or teams on your level. Avoid those that have clear policies on soliciting for sponsorship.

    • 4

      Obtain the contact information for a specific person that is in charge of sponsorship applications or decision making. Use a variety of sources to obtain the information including friends, family members and player's parents to make necessary contacts.

    • 5

      Learn about the process a particular business or company uses for sponsorship. Obtain the necessary forms and fill them out completely. Organize your request and make a single proposal or request for sponsorship. Ask for what you want up front and do not go back a second or third time with additional requests.

    • 6

      Consider any sponsorship offers carefully. Involve board members, school administration and others in a decision-making capacity. Clearly understand what will be provided by the company or business and what, in return, they expect. Understand the length of time the sponsorship will last and any restrictions on sponsorship by competing companies.