Virtual events have become increasingly popular as more people have turned to online platforms for their events. Whether it’s a virtual conference, webinar, or networking event, one thing that remains constant is the need for sponsorship to help fund the event. In this blog post, we’ll explore how you can secure sponsors for your virtual event.
What are your virtual event goals?
Before you start looking for sponsors, it’s essential to understand your virtual event goals. What is the purpose of your event, and what are you hoping to achieve? Are you looking to educate attendees, generate leads, or promote your brand? Understanding your goals will help you identify the right sponsors to approach and create a sponsorship package that aligns with your objectives.
What type of virtual event do you want to host?
There are various types of virtual events, each with its unique characteristics and audience. Understanding the type of event you want to host will help you identify the right sponsors to approach. For example, if you’re hosting a virtual conference, you may want to approach sponsors who specialise in the same industry or have a similar target audience.
What is different about your virtual event that will make it stand out?
When approaching sponsors, it’s crucial to highlight what makes your virtual event unique. What are the selling points of your event, and how will it benefit the sponsor? This could be your event’s theme, guest speakers, or the number of attendees you’re expecting. By highlighting what makes your event stand out, you can make it more attractive to potential sponsors.
Reach out to the right brands.
Once you’ve identified your event goals, type, and unique selling points, it’s time to start reaching out to potential sponsors. Start by identifying brands that align with your event’s goals and target audience. This could be through market research or by looking at similar events to yours and the sponsors they have worked with.
Make use of event sponsorship tools.
There are various tools available to help you secure sponsors for your virtual event. One of the most popular is sponsorship marketplaces, where you can list your event and attract potential sponsors. These platforms match brands with relevant events based on their goals, target audience, and budget. Another tool is sponsorship management software that helps you track your sponsors’ progress, communicate with them, and measure ROI.
A phone call works best.
While email is a common way to reach out to potential sponsors, a phone call can be more effective. It allows you to have a more personal conversation and answer any questions the sponsor may have. Before making the call, prepare a pitch that highlights your event’s unique selling points and the benefits of sponsoring your event.
How will you integrate your sponsors into your virtual event (develop packages)?
Developing a sponsorship package is crucial in securing sponsors for your virtual event. The package should outline what the sponsor will receive in exchange for their investment, such as branding, speaking opportunities, or exclusive access to attendees. It’s important to tailor the package to the sponsor’s goals and budget.
Choose the right platform.
Choosing the right platform for your virtual event can help attract sponsors. Groovy Gecko is a virtual event platform that offers a range of features, including customizable branding, live streaming, and audience engagement tools. By choosing a platform that provides a professional and engaging virtual event experience, you can make your event more attractive to potential sponsors.
Securing sponsors for your virtual event requires a strategic approach that involves understanding your event goals, identifying the right sponsors, developing a sponsorship package, and choosing the right platform. By following these steps and utilising the tools available, you can increase your chances of securing sponsors for your virtual event.
