Questions about Collecting Sponsorship

There are always people collecting sponsorship for this and that. Why would they want to give money to me?
Support a cause you believe in. If you know yourself its for a worthy cause, you will have a better chance of convincing others. You are also undertaking a challenge and most people will respect you for that.

I hate asking people for money. Is their another way to raise funds rather than through sponsor forms?
Be creative. There are lots of other ways to raise money. Consider holding coffee mornings, quiz nights, sweepstakes at work etc. We have other Fact Files that can provide you with lots more ideas!

What do I do with those who pledge money but don ’ t pay up? I feel as though I am nagging if I keep chasing them. I don’t want to lose friends!
It’s simple. Ask sponsors to pay upfront or give you post-dated cheques. That way, you don’t have to ask them twice for money.

I work in a large company. Do you think I should ask them to make a donation?
Yes! If you are in business, approach the managers with access to budgets. Many companies operate a ‘matched giving’ scheme whereby money raised for charity by an employee is matched through a donation from the company. It is definitely worth asking! Larger companies may be willing to approach their suppliers. We can even supply you with a template letter to help you.

My friends and family live a long way away so it would be difficult to ask them for money. How can I get them to sponsor me?
There are always those you don’t see face to face so send a letter or email. It helps if you can provide a donation slip at the bottom that is easy to fill in. A Self Addresses Envelope with stamp works wonders for prompting a response.

I don't work in a very large place and don't have that many people to ask to sponsor me.
You probably know more people than you think! Make a list of all your friends, family, social circles, sports club, work colleagues, clients etc. You can then decide the best way to approach each group – either face-to-face, through email or by letter. Being systematic is the best way to ensure you get the most out of those you know.

I don't have a lot of free time to go around collecting sponsors.
Recruit a team of friends and family to help you collect donations and give them sponsor forms. Remember to write your contact details on the form and make sure they come back to you.

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Other Top Tips:

• Good fundraisers have thick skins – be cheeky, be bold and be persistent!
  
• Carry your sponsor form around with you at all times - this way you’ll never miss an opportunity to gain more sponsors.
  
• Start each sponsor form with a £20 donation - people do tend to follow the trend.
  
• Collect your sponsorship money in as soon as you can after the event. If you leave it too long, people forget what they sponsored you for.