Student Sponsors

Student sponsors are an important part of the Business Week experience for many students. Student sponsors provide financial support that assists students to attend the programme. The process of approaching, representing and reporting back to a sponsor also provides a valuable experience and development opportunity for students.

Who to ask for sponsorship 

• Family who own businesses
• Neighbours that own businesses
• Businesses in Neighbourhood
• Ask Family if they know any business owners
• Rotary Clubs
• Lions Clubs
• School Scholarships
• If your parents are self employed their service providers and suppliers are always a good start, eg:
  
  • Accountants
  • Law firms
  • Suppliers (eg RD1, Wrightsons)
• If your parents are not self-employed, try your parents' employer. Service providers and suppliers are still a good option

How to ask for sponsorship

• Explain who you are, what school you go to, what business week is about (read about it on this site to find out more) and what your future ambitions may include
• Tell them that you want to learn about business, and you're looking for $350 sponsorship - state your goals. A student with a vision impresses people.
• If the business tells you they can't afford it, ask for $175 and get sponsorship from a second business. This also shows your entrepreneurial flare.
• Sponsorship is not limited to one sponsor. Although there is not room for two sponsors on the enrolment form, just include information about all your sponsors.
• Explain to your potential sponsor that all sponsors are thanked in the programme.
• Ask a business owner in person before writing to them to ask for sponsorship. Over the phone is better than nothing.
• Don't feel bad if someone says no - there are plenty more businesses out there who will say yes!

Student Sponsors (2007) included: