Sponsor Recognition Playbook
As your city gears up for the 2026 sponsorship season, it’s the perfect time to focus on one of the most powerful drivers of sponsorship success—recognition. Sponsors want to feel valued and see clear returns on their investment, not only through visibility but also through authentic appreciation. By going the extra mile to highlight your sponsors before, during, and after your events, you’ll build stronger partnerships and attract even more sponsors for the years ahead.
Below are a few best practices to help you maximize sponsor visibility and strengthen relationships.
đź’ˇ 1. Enhance Your Sponsor Recognition Cards in the App
Your Sponsor Recognition Cards are a key feature within your SeeMyLegacy campaign that aid in showcasing the organizations that make your events possible.
Here’s how to make them stand out:
- Include compelling visuals: Use high-quality logos and images that reflect the sponsor’s brand identity.
- Add meaningful messaging: Incorporate a brief description of the sponsor’s contribution or community impact—this personal touch makes recognition more authentic.
- Link directly to the sponsor: If possible, include a clickable link to the sponsor’s website or social channels, driving engagement back to them.
📱 2. Spotlight Individual Sponsors on Social Media
Social media is one of the most effective ways to highlight sponsor support.
When crafting individual sponsor spotlights:
- Tag the sponsor’s official page to increase visibility and encourage them to share your post.
- Include a personal thank-you message that acknowledges their specific contribution.
- Add visuals or videos from your event featuring their logo, booth, or team members.
- Use consistent hashtags to tie all sponsor content together (e.g., #CityEventSponsors #ThankYouPartners).
These spotlights not only make sponsors feel appreciated but also show potential sponsors the benefits of partnering with your city.
🎉 3. Thank All Sponsors in a Group Post After the Event
Once your event wraps up, a collective “Thank You to Our Sponsors” post goes a long way.
Here’s what to include:
- A group graphic with all sponsor logos.
- A short message expressing appreciation for their contributions.
- A recap highlight or photo from the event that shows community impact.
Sharing this across your website, app, and social platforms helps maintain visibility for your sponsors and demonstrates your city’s professionalism and gratitude.
✉️ 4. Send Personalized Thank-You Letters or Emails
A personal follow-up note is one of the simplest—and most effective—ways to strengthen long-term relationships.
After your event:
- Send a short, sincere thank-you email or letter to each sponsor.
- Include event results or impact metrics (e.g., attendance numbers, social reach, community engagement).
- Mention that you look forward to future collaborations in 2026 and beyond.
📆 5. Recognize Sponsors Year-Round
Don’t wait until your next event to show appreciation. Periodic updates, anniversary shoutouts, or “throwback” posts from successful past events remind sponsors that their partnership is valued long after the event ends.
đź’¬ The Bottom Line
Recognizing your sponsors doesn’t just show appreciation—it’s a strategic way to build trust, visibility, and long-term investment. By using these best practices for your 2026 Sponsorships, your city can foster stronger sponsor relationships, attract new partners, and set the stage for even more successful events in the years ahead.
