Advice on Sponsorship needed!

[Captain59]

I'm looking for advice on how I can have a fundraising event sponsored by a company. I have a friend (Stephanie) whose mother is a lung cancer survivor. Since that all happened a few years ago, Stephanie has been very involved in lung cancer awareness and fundraising. This spring, she is hosting a Yogathon as part of the around-the-calendar Free to Breathe lung cancer fundraising efforts in Los Angeles. She is looking for businesses to sponsor her Yogathon. Does anyone have any advice on how I can get sponsors for her?

As someone who lost a non-smoking high school classmate to lung cancer four years ago, and after hearing about Stephanie's mom, I'm very passionate about this cause.

Any advice would be great. Thanks!

Mark

 

[Sector 7]

Enlist the help of local radio and television stations to publicize the event. Let them know you are looking for corporate sponsors. The media may also have tips for you to get the most results from your efforts.

This was many years ago, but as a youth pastor I went to both Pepsi and Coca-Cola for help with a car wash/bake sale event. Since our church was on the main highway through town (and very visible), I got them into a bidding war. Pepsi won by providing tents, fountain drinks, banners and more. The cola wars proved very beneficial for us.

 

[Shatnertage]

Find out if any of the larger local businesses have corporate foundations; they are the ones who control this kind of thing. If they're smaller, contact their PR person, and you should at least get a referral.

 

[MetalPants]

For a place to start, go to your local Wal-Mart and schedule a time to meet with the store manager. S/he might be able to help you directly, or put you in touch with people who can.