Getting sponsorship
There is no set formula or magic recipe for finding sponsors, but here are a few
suggestions that you might find helpful:
IDENTIFY YOUR POTENTIAL SPONSORS
These may be manufacturers, retailers etc, all of whom have one factor in common,
they all expect a return on their investment which you may provide in two
differents ways:
Outside action:
- to promote the product of the company
- to promote sales
- to increase exposure of the product or of the company
Internal action:
- to motivate company staff
- to make a statement on the company's values and principles
Ultimately, a sponsor is seeking media exposure in press and TV coverage of the
event.
ESTABLISH A CLEAR AND CONCISE FILE
Before embarking on a search for a sponsor, you must create a file and for that
purpose you will need to get the media in your area involved in your participation
in the MARATHON DES SABLES (local newspapers, radio and TV). Local media is always interested in "exotic adventure" stories. "Local man/ woman runs
140 mile MARATHON DES SABLES". In order to arouse the interest of a sponsor,
you will need to demonstrate that the media is following the MARATHON DES
SABLES. The sponsor may also have contacts in the media world and obtain
additional coverage, especially if they are local or perhaps even National advertisers.
The competitor will undertake to return from the MARATHON DES SABLES with
pictures of the event together with notes which the local media will use
(interviews, etc). It is even possible to communicate with your local radio, TV or
newspaper by fax or by phone, live from the desert at the end of each daily stage.
Compiling your file:
After you have gathered media interest you can then establish your file which
usually groups 4 items:
1. Event description: for that you can use this information kit which clearly describes the main characteristics of the Marathon (self-sufficiency in food, miles
covered, the different stages of the race, camping in the Sahara etc).
2. Media: this section will define the media interest you have created illustrated
by letters you have received from the media.
3. Opportunities of sponsoring: details of what you are offering your sponsors
before, during and after the event.
BEFORE:
One month before the event, distribute leaflets and public notices announcing
your participation in the race on which you will show your sponsors' and media
partners' logos. Two weeks prior to the event, hold a press conference in conjunction
with your media partners.
DURING:
Presentation of the advertising spaces on your sports wear and equipment giving
details:
- T-shirt (front, back and sleeves) don’t forget that you'll have a number measuring
20 cm x 24 cm)
- shorts
- backpack
- caps, socks, small flags...
Transmission of fax or phone reports to your media partners and sponsors.
NB: You will be photographed and filmed. Constrasting colours should be used
for your sponsors’ logos, in thick paint. Use the maximum space available.
AFTER:
When you return, give your impressions and your stories to your media partners
and sponsors should be cited whenever possible.
Arrange a date soon after your return to organize a "reception" when you be
able to show the video of the MARATHON DES SABLES as well as slides and the
equipment and clothing that you used during the race.
4. Budget: This is a suggested budget that you will submit to your sponsors and
which should include the following:
- registration fees (see ART. 25).
- equipment: 500 to 800 Euros
- telecommunications: 200 to 300 Euros
- misc. expenses: 200 to 300 Euros
The overall budget may be around 3 500 Euros.
For teams, the name of the team will appear in every press kit and in the official
rankings.
You may also suggest to your sponsors that they may like to be at the finishing
line to greet you if they would like to invite selected clients or a small incentive
group of their own sales staff. Details of this will be sent in due course.
Good luck
