When it comes to sponsorship spending in Canada, sports are at the front of the pack. Support spending for sports was estimated to be somewhere in the ballpark of 1.77 billion dollars in 2013, up more than 60 percent from 2006. That rapid growth indicates sports sponsorships are proving to be a winning strategy.
Sports sponsorships aren’t just for the big dogs. According to Athletes Can, more than half of corporate sponsorship dollars target provincial, regional and local markets. Clearly, backing local teams or events can be beneficial. It not only creates community goodwill; it’s good publicity. Whether you provide funding, uniforms or sports swag, your sponsorship investment return can be seen in increased brand awareness, patient loyalty and word of mouth. Hit a home run for your health-and-wellness organization and the people it serves with one of these sports-sponsorship ideas.
Team sponsor
Sponsoring a local sports team is a great way to get eyes on your organization’s logo. Choose teams with coaches, players or spectators that fit your target market. In addition to covering registration fees, provide team uniforms and gear imprinted with your logo. They’ll want to wear these tournament jerseys on and off the field. Throw in coordinating sports-related promotional items, such as this logo’d water bottle and drawstring sportspack. They’re perfect for carrying gear to and from practices.
Event sponsor
Events like fun-runs, bike races or swim meets are promoted across a myriad of communication channels (email, direct mail, social and more.). That means when you sponsor an event, you reach many more people than just those who attend. Secure your event sponsorship early to take full advantage of potential brand exposure. In addition to displaying your logo on banners and signage, throw in branded sports swag. A sunscreen pouch is a great giveaway for outdoor events. And these safety clips help keep participants safe during nighttime walks or runs.
Stadium sponsor
If you’re looking to stand out from your competition, consider a stadium sponsorship. These opportunities are often exclusive (meaning no more than one type of each organization can take advantage of each opportunity). Stadium sponsors get their name seen on signage and through various marketing channels. Get additional bang for your buck by sponsoring giveaways. Fans will stand in line for sports-related promotional items, like these inflatables, can coolers or fidget spinners.
Everyone wins when you sponsor a local team. Whether your sponsorship dollars are for sports swag, team uniforms, community sporting events or an entire stadium, your investment can boost brand awareness, loyalty and word-of-mouth.