When small business owners are looking for creative ways to bring more exposure to their company and get involved in their community, sponsoring a local sports team is a smart decision. Team sponsorship is a hallmark of a socially responsible small business. Not only will this benefit your community, your business stands to benefit tremendously as well. Here we’ve assembled 7 reasons your small business should consider sponsoring a local team.
1. Increase Brand Awareness
Most small businesses depend on a local customer base and nothing brings a community together more than youth sports. Team names, uniforms, merchandise and arenas can all be branded. Many local sports teams are known simply by the name of their sponsor. This brings brand recognition to a maximum amongst a wide variety of age groups within your local market. If you have a business with a large enough storefront you can also benefit by hosting events and awards ceremonies for your sponsored team or even the entire league.
2. Reduce Cost To Parents
Maintaining a youth sports team can be extremely expensive. Your company’s sponsorship can go a long way towards reducing the cost of participation for parents. Underfunded organizations typically need to pass the costs along to the parents for anything from equipment, staff and travel. When your community is in good financial condition, it increases the chances of your business thriving. Even a small reduction in cost can better the financial situation for many parents, especially those with multiple children participating in youth sports.
3. Relatively Inexpensive
The cost involved with sponsoring a team varies and can include providing money or other essential goods or services. If your business sells needed items for teams, it’s a great opportunity to showcase your product and put your brand on display. When comparing the cost of sponsoring a team to other types of advertising, it is relatively inexpensive. The return on investment is also much greater as your exposure is directed at a specific local market as well as its surrounding areas.
4. Networking Opportunities
Getting involved in youth sports offers a great opportunity to network with local business owners and influential members of the community. Although your teams may be competing on the field, your businesses may be able to work together. Whether it be a new supplier, consultant or mentor, sporting events give business owners a chance to connect in a relaxed atmosphere. These events also tend to draw member of local government. Connecting with people of influence can have a lasting impact on your business.
5. Positive Publicity
The publicity you receive by sponsoring a local team can’t help but be positive. You will be seen as a business owner that cares about the community and is willing to invest in its future.
6. Proper Equipment
Many youth sports organizations lack the funds to properly equip their participants. This can lead to additional costs for parents, and worse, improperly equipped team members. The safety of their children is often the top priority of parents and a lack of funding may cause deficiencies.
7. Receptive Audience
Many types of paid advertising are intrusive and not well received by their audience. Team sponsorship gives your brand a chance to reach potential customers without interrupting or decreasing the quality of their experience.
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