Making the Ask: Soliciting Sponsorships and Gathering Volunteers
In the dynamic world of meetings and events, the ability to secure sponsorships and mobilize an effective team of volunteers can mean the difference between a good event and a great one. Join us on the morning of November 9th at the Hilton Mystic for a half-day educational event that will transform your approach to event planning and execution.
8:30- 9:00: Registration & Networking
Grab a cup of coffee and connect with fellow industry professionals who share your passion for excellence in meetings and events.
9:00 AM - 9:15 AM: Welcome
9:15 AM - 10:15 AM: Mastering the Art of Soliciting Sponsorships
When it comes to soliciting sponsors, what new options are you offering? How do you make the ask? And most importantly, how are you getting to “yes”? Come hear ideas for successfully securing sponsorships for your events, including innovative strategies, effective communication techniques, and the art of crafting compelling sponsorship proposals that will make potential partners eager to invest in your vision.
10:15 AM - 10:45 AM: Hilton Mystic Venue Tour
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the luxurious Hilton Mystic, our gracious host venue for the day.
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM: Mobilizing and Managing Event Volunteers
Gain invaluable insights on how to recruit, inspire, and effectively manage volunteers who are the backbone of your event's success. From recruitment best practices, to volunteer retention strategies, to onsite volunteer management, this session will equip you with the tools needed to build a dedicated and motivated event team.
12:00 PM: Lunch
After a busy morning we know you will be hungry. We will be providing lunch at Mango's Wood-Fired Pizza, located just a few steps away from the Hilton in Olde Mistick Village. Bring your appetite and join us for a slice!
Why Attend?
Learning Objectives:
1. Mastering the art of asking for sponsorship, how to make the ask, and how to get the “yes”.
2 Learn the art of building a compelling sponsorship proposal
3. Gain valuable insights on how to recruit and manage volunteers who are the backbone of your event’s success
4. Learn retention strategies, on-site management and best practices in the industryMember: $80
Non-Member $105
Past President: $65
Student: $65
Limited seats available – Register now to secure your spot!
Speaker Bio: Rachel Lenda
Rachel Lenda, a native of eastern Connecticut, has spent her professional career as a Sales and Marketing expert in the hospitality industry. From planning and executing events to rebuilding marketing strategies, Rachel’s industry experience has a proven track record of results. In 2020, Rachel left the hospitality industry to venture into a business administrative role where she became the Administrative Partnership Manager at the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut. Her lead role is Administrator for the Eastern Regional Tourism District and the Southeast Connecticut World Affairs Council.
Rachel is also a grant writer and the top fundraiser for the Chamber’s newest venture, the Regional Innovation/Co-Working Center; she has successfully written over $1 million in grant and sponsorship proposals this year alone. Rachel brings her intricate knowledge of fundraising to the Meeting Professionals International network in an interactive and kinetic learning experience.
Parking Information: Surface lot with free parking
Off I-95, our location is filled with the historic charm of maritime New England. We're across the street from Mystic Aquarium and Olde Mistick Village shops. Within 10 minutes, reach the downtown harbor and Mystic Pizza. Foxwoods Casino is 20 minutes away. Our hotel has a courtyard with fire pits and a pool with dive-in movies.
Thank you to our Annual Partners!
Annual AV Partner
Annual Registration Partner