Why Sponsor Levels Matter
Tiered sponsorship packages serve two purposes:
- They anchor expectations. When a sponsor sees a $5,000 "Gold" level and a $1,000 "Bronze" level, the $2,500 "Silver" level suddenly looks reasonable.
- They simplify the ask. Instead of negotiating custom packages with every sponsor, you can point to a menu and let them choose.
Most tournaments use 3–5 tiers. Fewer than three feels limited; more than five gets confusing.
Sample Sponsor Level Structure
Here's a framework you can adapt:
Title Sponsor — $10,000+
- Exclusive naming rights ("The [Company Name] Golf Classic")
- Logo on all print and digital materials
- Banner at registration and awards
- Speaking opportunity at dinner
- Two foursomes included
- Social media promotion (dedicated posts)
- First right of refusal for next year
Platinum Sponsor — $5,000
- Logo on event signage and website
- One foursome included
- Tee prize or swag bag inclusion
- Recognition at awards dinner
- Social media mention
Gold Sponsor — $2,500
- Logo on event signage and website
- Two player registrations included
- Recognition at awards dinner
- Social media mention
Silver Sponsor — $1,000
- Logo on website
- Recognition at awards dinner
- Hole sign at designated hole
Hole Sponsor — $250
- Sign at one hole with company logo
- Recognition on website
How to Price Your Levels
Your pricing depends on your audience, cause, and market. A few rules of thumb:
- Title sponsor should be 2–3x your next highest tier
- Middle tiers should be evenly spaced (e.g., $1,000, $2,500, $5,000)
- Hole sponsor is your entry point — accessible to local small businesses
If you're not sure where to start, look at what similar events in your area charge. Or start conservative and raise prices next year once you've proven the value.
What Sponsors Actually Care About
When you're building packages, think about what sponsors actually value:
- Logo visibility — Where and how often will their brand be seen?
- Player access — Do they get to golf? Bring clients?
- Audience fit — Are the attendees their target customers?
- Ease of participation — Is it simple to sign up and fulfill?
- Recognition — Will they be thanked publicly?
The more specific you can be about deliverables, the easier it is for sponsors to justify the expense internally.
Naming Your Levels
The classic metal tiers (Gold, Silver, Bronze) work fine, but they're generic. Consider naming levels to match your event or cause:
- Golf-themed: Eagle, Birdie, Par
- Cause-themed: Champion, Advocate, Supporter
- Local flair: Course name, city name, mascot
Just make sure the hierarchy is obvious. "Eagle" should clearly be higher than "Birdie."
Custom Sponsorships
Not every sponsor fits neatly into a tier. Some want something specific:
- Beverage cart sponsor — Logo on the cart, their drinks served
- Dinner sponsor — Naming rights to the post-round meal
- Contest sponsor — Their name on the closest-to-pin or long drive hole
- Swag bag sponsor — Their item in every player's bag
- Photography sponsor — Their logo on all event photos
These "a la carte" sponsorships can be sold in addition to tier packages — or as standalone options for businesses that want visibility without a big commitment.
Following Up After the Event
Sponsorship doesn't end when the tournament does. A strong follow-up turns one-time sponsors into repeat supporters:
- Send a thank-you email within a week
- Include photos of their signage, booth, or logo in action
- Share event metrics (players, funds raised, reach)
- Ask for feedback
- Lock in next year's commitment early (with a small discount for renewals)
Final Thought
Sponsorship levels give structure to your fundraising and make it easier for businesses to say yes. Keep the tiers simple, the benefits clear, and the signup process painless — and you'll build a sponsor base that comes back year after year.
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