[MysterE]

Ahh corporate sponsorships,

They are exciting and disappointing at the same time. While we can't claim to be an expert here yet, I have figured out a few things that might help. First, find people in lower positions that work at a company. They can often help get your foot in the door. Use Social Networking to your advantage as you never know who knows whom. Second. . . Be willing to engage in cold calling. You may call dozens of companies...but you only need a few who are interested. Use a script so that you can say exactly what you want to. Keep records of who you called when, did you leave a voicemail or talk to an assistant and call back after a set period of not hearing back. People are busy so persistence is key. Another good trick is to find professional organizations that would allow you to present at their meetings. We've presented before the International Society of Automators and our local engineering society. You'll be surprised at the connections you will make.

Go into every call and interaction with confidence. You are not going somewhere hat in hand... You are offering them a chance to sponsor an organization with a proven track record of creating an amazing workforce.

Good Luck!!