Posted on 16th Jun 2009 @ 4:06 PM

Sponsors are important because they help both the golf event and the game. The more sponsors you have, the more money you (& they) can potentially make.

The reasons companies are often incented to sponsor golf events are primarily because they want a return on their investment & they want more exposure. They will also sponsor events to meanwhile entertain & treat current clients.

Companies that are worthwhile to target/prospect for your event could be – your vendors, merchants/vendors for your golfers (gear, clothing, equipment etc.), companies fundraising, or other companies that want to be associated with your cause.

Some of the most prestigious golf events are often sponsored by some of the largest companies. The golf event will market the tournament using the company name for example: The Bridgestone Invitational is this year’s title for the PGA tournament. So offer your largest sponsor the benefit of having their name in the title of your event. Also, give them exposure throughout the event with use of signs throughout the course, golf carts, eating areas, bathrooms etc.

Here are some steps to prospecting to sponsors.
- Develop a sponsor committee – someone with relationships in your business committee
- Develop sponsor packages & benefits – create enticing packages with a higher value & greater benefits.
- Create a list of potential sponsorship packages & sponsors.
- Send out an introduction letter - put together a nice marketing package with a letter explaining the details of your event. Be sure to include a contact & have the letter sent from someone heading up the event like an Honorary Chairman.
- Follow up with a phone call or email – do so in a timely manner after they have received the letter.
- Plan a meeting – developing a face to face relationship works wonders for getting new business.