How to make sponsorship gifts work harder—for everyone

By Mae Strehlow

By 2030, global brands are expected to invest $189.5 billion in corporate sponsorships opens in new window. And 81% of respondents believe sponsorships have moderate or significant business value potential.

81% of respondents believe sponsorships have moderate or significant business value potential.

Whether you’re organizing an event or supporting one, sponsorships give you the chance to connect with your audience, elevate your brand and leave a lasting impression. Sponsorship gifts can take things to the next level.

Getting the most out of a sponsorship means thinking beyond the checkbook. Experience-enhancing giveaways, useful event swag, practical support and more can turn a one-day appearance into a long-term relationship. Here are sponsorship gift ideas to make your next event more meaningful for everyone involved.

Help attendees feel welcome

First impressions significantly influence people’s attitudes opens in new window and behaviors toward your brand. As people walk into an event or gathering, set the tone and make them comfortable right off the bat. If you’re organizing the event, check-in provides the perfect place for sponsor welcome gifts.

Thoughtful and useful corporate sponsor gift ideas might include a crossbody bag filled with essentials like mini hand sanitizer, writing sets and small notebooks. If the event is outdoors or involves walking, consider adding a hand fan and sun care kit. Sponsors can drop in a business card or discount code to keep the conversation going after the event.

Planning a more upscale affair? Fill messenger bags with wine stoppers, shatterproof glasses and business card treats, along with an exclusive invitation for an after party. Even simple sponsorship gifts—like luggage tags for a hotel-based event—help guests feel welcome and appreciated.

Add comfort to the experience

Consider that 42% of people say they’d pay more for a friendly, welcoming experience opens in new window, and 43% say they’d pay more for greater convenience. Plus, 65% say a positive experience with a brand has a stronger impact than great advertising. Experience is everything.

65% say a positive experience with a brand has a stronger impact than great advertising.

If your event involves long days of walking, crowded venues or changing weather, view it as an opportunity to provide thoughtful solutions. Consider giving out folding chairs, cooling towels or small umbrellas at outdoor events. For all-day or weekend events, like camps or conferences, place reusable cutlery and refillable travel mugs at each place setting. These aren’t just corporate sponsor gifts—they’re experience enhancers. People will associate your brand with a moment they were able to relax and get comfortable.

Extend the event beyond the day

When the tables are cleared and the last name badge is recycled, your sponsorship can still stick with attendees if you’ve given them something worth holding onto. Consider what attendees will use at the event, but also in the future.

63% of people say they’d keep and use promo drinkware for at least one year. opens in new window Sixty-two percent of people say they’d keep and use a calendar for at least one year. Choose corporate sponsor gift ideas that have real lasting power, like a ceramic mug with a bag of coffee or a desk calendar to keep your organization within sight daily.

63% of people say they’d keep and use promo drinkware for at least one year.

If you plan to follow up with potential clients, collaborators or volunteers you met at the show, consider mailing them a thoughtful item. Coasters or wireless speakers with a personalized, handwritten note go a long way in continuing the conversation.

Support the behind-the-scenes crew

A great event doesn’t happen without a great team. Whether it’s volunteers at a fundraiser or staff working a corporate function, showing appreciation boosts engagement, reduces turnover opens in new window, increases morale and encourages future participation.

Offer to supply corporate sponsor gifts for the team, like polo shirts or hats for added visibility. Or select convenience items like insulated water bottles, adhesive phone wallets or charging cables. Event organizers can coordinate with sponsors to hand these out ahead of time or include them in pre-event orientation packets.

For a larger impact, contribute something for the green room or lounge, like plush blankets or popcorn, nuts and other snacks. These small comforts make long hours feel shorter and reinforce a positive association with your brand.

Sponsorship gift ideas that make an impression

Whether hosting or supporting, the most effective sponsorship gifts are the ones that meet a need, improve the experience and offer something memorable. Every item given provides a chance to connect and a time to shine.

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