Here is a short list of principles you should keep in mind when seeking or negotiating a sponsorship. Don't just try the obvious list of sponsors, get original! As long as you have something to offer - ask! Sponsorships should be used to enhance your fundraising programs and not displace existing or future funding arrangements on which you or your organisation depend. Sponsorships must be consistent with the generally accepted values, purposes and goals of your organisation and members. Sponsorship agreements should only be negotiated with organisations whose public image, products or services are not inconsistent with ethos and values of your organisation. All sponsorship agreements should be reached through negotiation. The agreement must specify the roles and responsibilities of individual parties, this include your members and the nature and level of acknowledgment to be given to the sponsor. Sponsorships and promotions should be compatible with acceptable social practice. Participation in sponsorships should not generate undue pressure on your organisation and members. Participation in sponsorships should not interfere with your organisation's ability to acquire any particular product or service. Participation in sponsorships should not impose you, your members or your organisation to adopt particular beliefs, attitudes or courses of action outside your existing charter. Sponsorships and promotions should not involve endorsement of products or services by you, your members or your organisation unless so agreed by all parties. Acceptance of a sponsorship should not be as condition of an individual member's participation in the sponsored activities. All sponsorships must be fairly discussed, voted on and ratified by a majority of your membership. This is not a comprehensive list of points to keep in mind when considering a sponsorship. However it is a good beginning. Use common sense and make sure that no undue influence is ever a part of the negotiations. *********************** About the Author: Doug Nash lives in Logan City in Queensland, Australia. He has graciously consented to share a fundraising idea with us every month. Although many of the ideas aren't new, each of them has a unique flair that comes from being developed and refined half a world away from ours. Visit his web site at http://www.home.gil.com.au/~dnash/ for more fundraising ideas.