How to Get Business Sponsorships for Your Team (Without the Guesswork)
If you’ve ever tried to raise money for your team, you know how quickly expenses add up—tournament fees, travel, uniforms, and equipment. Fundraising helps, but it’s time-consuming and often unpredictable.
That’s where business sponsorships come in. Local businesses are often willing to support youth sports, but getting a “yes” requires more than just asking for donations. Without a plan, you’ll likely hear a lot of “We’ll think about it” with no follow-up.
Instead of crossing your fingers and hoping for the best, you need a clear sponsorship strategy—one that makes businesses eager to support your team.
Here’s Your Sponsorship Strategy
A common mistake is sending out a few generic emails and waiting for responses. The reality is, most businesses need a reason to say yes. A sponsorship strategy helps you:
• Target the right businesses—ones that will actually benefit from sponsoring your team
• Make a clear, compelling ask—so they understand exactly what they’re supporting
• Offer structured sponsorship levels—giving them easy options instead of an open-ended request
• Follow up effectively—because most sponsorships aren’t secured on the first try
Without a plan, sponsorships can feel like a long shot. With the right approach, they become a reliable funding source for your team.
The Key Steps to Securing Sponsorships
Getting sponsorships isn’t complicated, but it does require a process. Here’s a preview of what that looks like:
1. Define Your Sponsorship Needs
Businesses want specifics. Instead of asking for “support,” outline exactly what their sponsorship will fund—travel costs, tournament entry fees, or uniforms.
2. Find the Right Businesses to Ask
Local businesses, parent-owned companies, and brands that align with youth sports are your best bets. A well-targeted list increases your chances of success.
3. Create a Sponsorship Offer They Can’t Refuse
Businesses want to know what they’re getting in return. Sponsorship tiers, logo placements, and social media recognition all add value.
4. Make the Ask (the Right Way)
A well-crafted pitch—whether in person or via email—makes all the difference. It should be clear, professional, and focused on why it benefits them as much as it benefits your team.
5. Follow Up and Close the Deal
Most sponsorships aren’t secured on the first request. Knowing how to follow up, handle objections, and finalize agreements is key to success.
Want to Take the Guesswork Out of Sponsorships?
If you’re ready to secure sponsorships but don’t have time to create a plan from scratch, we’ve done the work for you.
The Guide to Getting Sponsorships includes:
A step-by-step breakdown of the sponsorship process
Pre-written email templates so you know exactly what to say
Sponsorship level examples you can customize
Follow-up strategies to turn “maybe” into “yes”
Instead of guessing, you’ll have a proven system to help you bring in sponsors—without feeling like you’re begging for money.
Getting sponsorships doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right plan, you can secure the funding your team needs and build lasting partnerships with local businesses.