Whether you approach companies for funding or 'in-kind' support, depends to some extent on the resources you need for your event. For example, if you want to have internet access terminals at your event, you might prefer to have a sponsor provide you with several PC's, the software you need, complete installation of all the equipment and provision of the number of internet connections, rather than give you the cash which leaves you to source all the equipment yourself. Larger companies may prefer just to give cash sponsorship donations, smaller firms and local businesses are more likely to want to support you 'in kind' with products and services. In this context, it is worth investigating the useful synergies you may be able to create in support of your event by linking with other groups in the community-especially those who may also be looking for a sponsor for some complementary purpose. Of course, this takes time and advance-planning, but it can be done.
Local businesses can be good targets for support for locally focussed events.
Generally they will prefer to provide 'in kind' support, and the value of this should not be overlooked. Take this example of a 'space day' at an underprivileged school in outer Sydney. The event had to be self funding, so assistance was sought from businesses in the local community. Schools from around the district and the local community were invited and the event was so successful that it received considerable local media coverage, raised a modest amount of funds for the school to purchase laboratory equipment and was held again the following year, extended to a full two day event. For events at the local level, local community service groups such as the Lions Club, Rotary and Apex, can be approached for sponsorship in cash and kind.