When I seek sponsorship...

I have received a few "Comments" and private e-mails about how I go about seeking sponsors. Well, here is a basic run down of what I include when I send in a proposal.

INTRO: Give the sponsor a run-down of who you are.....where you live....age....etc. Make it fun. For the love of God, your racing a bike, not applying for the CEO's job. If they are still interested after the first few paragraphs chances are they will continue through the entire proposal. Tell them how you can benefit their company. After all, you (point to yourself), are a billboard for them. Also, keep the "intro" short and to the point....2 to 3 paragraphs.

TENTATIVE SCHEDULE: Figure out some of your race schedule for the next year. State that the schedule will change with additions and subtraction of races as dates become available.

RACE GOALS: What are your ambitions for the up coming season? Top 3's? Win state Championship? Only you know.

REFERENCES: List some people that the sponsor can contact to see if you are the "Real Deal" List people at your local shop, previous sponsors, etc. Make sure you don't forget the phone numbers. NO e-mail's!

HOW YOU GIVE BACK: What do you do, other than racing, that helps promote the sport and your potential sponsors products? Trail work? Speaking appearances? Etc.

PAST SPONSORS: What other sponsors have you had in the past year. Even list sponsors you already know are on board for the current season.

WHAT ARE YOU EXPECTING FROM THE SPONSOR: Describe what you are expecting from the sponsor. Give great detail. Never, I repeat NEVER, mention the word FREE or MONEY! If they like what you can offer, the "FREE" will come straight from the sponsors mouth.

INCLUDED EXTRAS: Include any pictures, press releases, or anything else that can "sway" the sponsor.

RESULTS: Include you race results from the last 3 years in an easy-to-read format, such as an Microsoft Excel format. Include race names, locations, class raced, and final result.

That pretty much covers it. Write this up in a "resume" format just like if you are applying for a job. Make sure you say please and thank you. Also keep in mind that your potential sponsors receive thousand of these requests every year. Do something that makes yours stand out from the crowd. Be very, very appreciative for anything.

Oh, I almost forgot.....Always mail it USPS unless they request e-mail, and always type it.

Hope this helps.