Sponsorship can be a huge help to any organization, whether for the long term or for a specific fundraising event. Several tips were offered at a recent conference about how to get the most out of an underwriting effort.

• Before you commit to hosting an event, seek sponsorship from area businesses and prominent individuals.
• Make a list of what needs underwriting and what each item costs.
• If you plan to hold an underwriting party, send the underwriting “wish list” along with the invitations.
• At the party, thank each sponsor who has already pledged support. Distribute a list of what remains to be underwritten.
• If possible, get a media sponsor newspaper, magazine, radio or television.
• Be prepared to tell potential sponsors what they will get in return for their support media advertising, a banner or booth at the event, the corporate name on publicity, etc.
• Immediately after the event, send each sponsor a thank-you letter. Tell them how many people attended the event and send copies of posters, ads, photos or banners and a rundown on how many times commercials or PSAs were played.
• For events aimed at crowds of 2,500 or more, consider seeking underwriting from national companies.
• Consider other sources of underwriting. Seek out restaurants or food stores to donate a percentage of sales.
• Be aware that in your eagerness to raise money you may fail to recognize conflicts of interest. If you involve sponsors who could be seen in conflict, do so in a less public way.