Pick a desert race team fundraising idea that sounds like a winner.
It's easy to find the racers: Spread the word about a planned desert competition on websites frequented by racers and fans, and it won't be long before they start coming out of the woodwork. However, investors aren't going to be coming out of the woodwork when you start looking for revenue. You'll have to go to them. Get the funding you need to supply racers with uniforms, training assistance and other expenses by doing some creative legwork -- so everyone gets to that finish line in record time.
Instructions
1. Partner with a product manufacturer to offer a premium in return for a donation. This is a great way to invite small investors to fund the event, so you don't have to search for high rollers. Use the U.S. Olympic team's marketing strategy as a model. Their direct mail campaigns promise hoodies, carry totes and logo-embellished gear in return for a donation. The secret is finding a premium that costs very little (or is donated). Post your donation request on desert racing websites, once you choose a product.
2. Pursue one major corporate sponsor. Present details of your upcoming race in person. Pick only companies with vested interests in increasing their market share among desert racers and race enthusiasts; companies making khaki shirts, dirt bike accessories, water bottles and safety helmets. Offer a solid game plan: Break out expenses and revenues associated with the upcoming desert race, so a savvy corporate sponsor can't say no to your need for funds.
3. Pitch a group of corporations, instead of just one, to remove the burden from a single contributor. Formulate a logical mix of companies to put together -- no competitors, or companies too far afield of the desert racing business. Use the names of all of the companies you approach as leverage; land that first commitment to help fund your team, and the second prospect may be easier to convince.
4. Use the media to help you raise money for your desert race team. Approach news anchors, radio disk jockeys, newspaper reporters and local celebs -- particularly if you can unearth one who lives for desert racing. Ask her to be your spokesperson. Make her job easy if she says yes. She'll be more likely to offer her endorsement if you do the legwork required to promote your fundraising campaign. Don't forget to sign her up for next year's event at the finish line -- when everyone's flushed with victory.
5. Approach organizations that do nothing but underwrite competitive team needs. The Endurance Athlete Sponsorship Program, open to a variety of physical pursuits, is in the business of paying the expenses of athletes. EASP sponsors believe no athlete should skip a race just because there's no money to pay for uniforms and other necessities. Affiliate with them to get help with desert race expenses. This philanthropic organization wants something in return: your promise to help find new sponsors and spread the word about The Endurance Trust and it's favorite charity, Pediatric Brain Tumor Research.
Tags: desert race, desert racing, coming woodwork, corporate sponsor, finish line, return donation, word about