How do you connect with theater sponsors?

1 Know your goals and needs

Before you start looking for sponsors, you need to have a clear idea of what your production goals and needs are. What is your artistic vision, your target audience, your budget, your timeline, and your expected outcomes? How can sponsors help you achieve them? Having a well-defined proposal will help you narrow down your search and communicate your value to potential sponsors.

2 Research and network

The next step is to research and network with potential sponsors who share your vision, values, and interests. You can look for local businesses, organizations, foundations, or individuals who have sponsored similar or related productions before, or who have a connection to your theme, genre, or community. You can also use online platforms, such as Theater Sponsorship Network, to find and contact sponsors who match your criteria. Additionally, you can attend events, workshops, or conferences where you can meet and interact with sponsors face-to-face, and showcase your work and passion.

3 Pitch and negotiate

Once you have identified and contacted some potential sponsors, you need to pitch and negotiate with them. You need to prepare a compelling and concise pitch that highlights your production's benefits, goals, and impact, as well as your sponsor's benefits, expectations, and recognition. You also need to be flexible and respectful when negotiating the terms and conditions of the sponsorship agreement, such as the amount, duration, frequency, and mode of payment, the deliverables, the reporting, and the acknowledgment. You should always have a written contract that outlines the details and responsibilities of both parties.

4 Deliver and report

After you have secured a sponsorship agreement, you need to deliver and report on your production's progress and results. You need to keep your sponsor updated and informed about your production's development, challenges, achievements, and feedback. You should also provide them with evidence and data that show how their sponsorship has contributed to your production's success and impact. You should also acknowledge and thank your sponsor publicly and privately, and show them how much you appreciate their support and trust.

5 Maintain and renew

The last step is to maintain and renew your relationship with your sponsor. You should not treat your sponsor as a one-time transaction, but as a long-term partner who shares your vision and values. You should keep in touch with your sponsor regularly, and invite them to your events, shows, or rehearsals. You should also seek their feedback, suggestions, or referrals, and show them how you value their input and expertise. You should also look for opportunities to renew or extend your sponsorship agreement, or to collaborate on future projects or initiatives.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?