Both sponsors and partners play integral roles in the success of your OnCampus Program, contributing diverse resources and expertise that enhance program visibility, impact, and sustainability. Efficiently managing these relationships ensures ongoing support and meaningful engagement with stakeholders.
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<img src="/icons/warning_pink.svg" alt="/icons/warning_pink.svg" width="40px" /> While the Hult Prize Foundation does not provide financial resources for Hult Prize OnCampus Programs, Campus Directors can use the brand name for their Hult Prize programs to fundraise exclusively to cover operation costs for their events. It's entirely feasible to run your OnCampus Program without any funds (the inaugural Hult Prize was launched with a budget of $0!). However, having some funds can make hosting your event easier.
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Sponsors and Partners
Sponsors: Sponsors provide financial or in-kind support to your program in exchange for visibility and recognition. They typically seek tangible benefits such as branding opportunities, access to a targeted audience, and alignment with their corporate social responsibility goals.
Partners: Partnerships involve collaborative relationships with entities that share your program’s mission and goals. Partnerships go beyond financial support to include shared resources, expertise, and strategic collaboration. Partnerships often aim to achieve mutual objectives such as promoting innovation, supporting student entrepreneurship, or advancing social impact initiatives.
Tips Section
Find Sponsors & Partners
- Start with Your University & Key Networks: Many universities offer funding opportunities for student-run events. Check with your Dean’s office, Student Council Office, Career Services, Marketing or Communications department, E-Centre, and Alumni office for potential support.
- Collaborate with Student Associations and Clubs: Reach out to other student associations and clubs within your university. They may have connections to sponsors or funding sources interested in supporting student initiatives.
- Create a List of Potential Funders: Make a comprehensive list of potential funders, including local businesses, nonprofits, and foundations. Identify what each entity can support, whether it’s financial contributions, in-kind donations, or promotional support.
- Reach Out to Local Businesses and Nonprofits: Engage with local businesses and nonprofits in your community. Explore partnerships and sponsorship opportunities aligned with your program’s mission and goals.
- Attend Networking Events: Participate in industry-related networking events, conferences, and community gatherings. Network with potential sponsors and partners to build relationships and explore collaboration opportunities.
Secure Sponsors & Partners
- Identify what’s available: Make a list of all the opportunities these sponsors & partners might want access to. It could be having their logo in your marketing materials or having a booth at your event.
- Meet your sponsor: After you’ve been introduced to the sponsor, from a third party or reaching out yourself, try having a meeting (in-person/virtual).
- Share your interest: Highlight what you like about the company and why you think they are the right fit for your OnCampus Program.
- Pitch what you need: Present the Hult Prize Foundation, share your specific needs, and what you can offer.
- Make a proposal: Create a package personalized for them and their needs from all the opportunities you identified. Here are a few options:
Tier 1- Gold Sponsor
Company Sponsors: Cash or in-kind $5,000 USD.
Company Gets: Logo included in all Marketing materials, Logo included in all name tags, Invitation to meet judges, 5 social media posts.