By Scott Jones, CFRE, Senior Partner Raising Paddles
You might not be aware of this, but tennis and golf are some of the most popular sports in the United States. It also happens they can be some of the best fundraising opportunities for nonprofits. That’s because tournament fundraisers are a great way to appeal to what motivates donors. Offering
opportunities that connect with their passions. All while raising money and building deepened relationships with potential donors and volunteers.
Sporting tournaments are a great way to raise money for your nonprofit. You can do it in a fun, competitive way that brings people together while they help you achieve your goals.
Professional golfers and tennis player and the national associations in which they are connected all host fundraising tournaments. However, you don’t need to be a pro athlete or even have any experience hosting tournaments. If you are considering this as an option for a fundraising activity, let the “Pros”
help you. Fundraising special event consultants like Raising Paddles can assist with every step of the way. Need help finding a tennis club or golf course, no worries! Expert team members are ready to assist. We’ll guide you through everything from selecting the perfect facility to advertising the tournament, filling your rosters with the right players and collecting donations before, during and after the event.
Why consider a sport outing for your donors?
Donors want an experience that appeals to their passions.
A charity sports tournament allows your organization’s supporters to connect more closely with other supporters who share similar values and as well as fueling your mission with monetary donations and contributions.
A Different Look.
Donors get excited about getting outside the ballrooms and formal settings. Many enjoy the opportunity to be outdoors where they can be relaxed and enjoy doing something they love while supporting your mission along the way.
Great Prospecting/Cultivation Event.
Sporting events appeal to a much different audience than the standard gala goer. Therefore, you are creating a greater chance of increasing your donor database by connecting to a different target audience.
Tennis & Golf are super popular.
There are many facilities in your area, so it’s easy to get volunteers and participants. Teams can consist of 1 to 4 players which is why there is so much demand to play the sport. Tournaments are high in demand and in short supply.
Corporate Sponsors
Increased participation by corporate sponsors is often seen in tournaments. Sponsors revere this opportunity as a huge equitable exchange. Also, you have more sponsorship opportunities to leverage while you seek to increase this revenue stream.
Awards Gala
Whether you lead or end the event with a special recognition ceremony where players are merged with spouses, friends, and other guests, this is a great way you bring all your fundraising efforts together. A short program with a shared mission success story is a fantastic means to connect your purpose to the
tournament.
Never Hosted a Tournament or Sport Outing before?
There are plenty of resources available to help the inexperienced nonprofit fundraisers learn how to make their tournament a success. And remember, it’s not just about raising money. It’s also about building relationships with potential donors and creating experiences that will keep them coming back year after year.
