We are planning an event in our neighborhood and we need some advice/suggestions on how to go about asking looking businesses for donations (not monetary donations, more product/services). Does anyone have any advice for us? We don't know how to get started.
I don't know what your fund raiser is for but Grant's Appliances is really good about donating a Tv or something.
the best thing is to stop in and just ask! also, promise the business that you will have some signs made acknowledging the donations. also, offer to let them put out info about their business etc.
If you seek local places close to your neighborhood, most are willing to donate a product or service. I think the most effective way is to go in person or phone and speak to the manager. Some places will ask you to put something in writing and send it in. It is good advertisement for them, so most are willing to help you out, especially if it is local.
If this is a large event, will they be able to write off the donation on their taxes? Are you giving their business any recognition if they donate (I.e. sign board at the event, banners or name printed on a ticket, or can they provide any advertising promotional items (i.e. keychains or pens with their name on it?) Think about what benefit the business will be receiving before you approach your businesses. Here is a quick example of a script - hope it makes sense how I wrote it. Practice this before you go out and ask for donations if you are nervous: (be happy, friendly and breathe!) Hi, my name is (so & so) and I'm with (organization's name) are you the owner or manager of this business? (If no...you may still want to explain briefly...) We are planning a (fundraiser/event?) (hand them a flyer/brochure/something to show that you are legitimate) for the purpose of (what?) Our event will be... (how large?how long? attended by what category of people who will benefit the business...moms? dads?, children?, business people? We are hoping to obtain donations for this event (don't be too specific...their idea may be bigger or smaller than you mention) and for your donation we would like to acknowledge your donation by (what are you doing for them????) Would you please donate? (stop talking.......let them think!) They will ask either...."What kind of donation are you looking for (products? monetary?) or "May I leave this for the boss" (" Sure...What is the name of the person that I need to follow up with, and their phone number?When should I f/u? " "No thank you". (You smile and say....(without any kind of flippancy!) Thank you for your time. Have a great day! They may reconsider at a later time!) "
Dress nicely, be prepared to answer questions about the event - maybe even wear some kind of pin to acknowledge the event. Stop talking after you ask them for a donation UNTIL they ask you a question...don't over-explain! You'll get tuned out and someone will tell you "no" just to get you out of the office. You'll do great! I hope this helps! Good luck!
When I worked for Lancome, we would make up baskets of testers for donations all the time. Just ask store management and they should be able to hook you up!
