If you’re reading this then you’ve likely experienced the struggle of securing revenue to keep your sports team going. Sure, crowdfunding, donations and grants from governing bodies have their place. Yet they all fail to address the ultimate challenge of creating consistent, scalable, income for clubs.
"In the past the fundraising process for my club has been a frustrating experience. Though crowdfunding and donations have provided a boost they have lacked any reliability to produce steady income streams. In addition to this I have lost count of the times I have applied for governing body grants only to realise that my club doesn’t meet the full requirements for funding to be released." - Nigel Costin, Chairman of Woodham Mortimer CC.
So, while an array of diverse income streams is always preferable, sponsorship is often an undervalued channel for grassroots sports teams.
Sponsorship isn't just about money; it's about creating partnerships. Sponsors can provide a proportion of the cash flow, crucial for club survival and growth. Done well, sponsors can enable both short term support but also partner with you on longer term projects so sharing mutual plans will enable you to align on objectives together.
This is because partnering with a local business allows both sides to benefit. Club's gain financial support whilst sponsors receive visibility within the community. This is crucial for businesses, enabling them to experience increased brand awareness to the potential customers from the club’s membership base and wider following.
Securing sponsors requires effort, through pitching proposals, networking, and showcasing the club's value, which can take time. However, the payoff is an investment in the club's future.
In conclusion, while crowdfunding, donations and grants offer short-term relief, sponsorship emerges as the long-term alternative for grassroots sports clubs when it comes to funding. It's the fuel that drives growth, stability, and strong community connections.
So, what’s stopping your club from securing sponsorship in 2024?
