Some say there are close to one million “charity” golf tournaments held every year. Regardless of the actual number, the average net profit for golf outings still hovers around $5000. For the amount of time and effort it takes to organize a golf tournament, that number should be MUCH higher! Let’s look at five of the most important things you can do to ensure YOUR next golf fundraiser raises more than that:
- Start planning MONTHS in advance. Form a committee of like-minded individuals who have the same drive and motivation to make the tournament a success as you do. Divide up the tasks, meet often, and hold people accountable.
- Obviously you want as many golfers playing in your tournament as possible, but focus more on the number of SPONSORS…that’s who you can raise the most money from. EVERYTHING is “sponsorable”: Holes, contests, food, driving range, golf carts, player gifts…just to name a few!
- The day should center around one theme; HAVING FUN! Happy people tend to give more. If that’s not scientific fact, it should be. Make sure there are plenty of gifts to go around, contests that generate excitement…and food and drink to satisfy one and all.
- Find a course that’s willing to go the extra “yard”; working with a friendly, competent staff that has your best interests in mind instead of theirs can make all the difference in the world. Like a home or a car, don’t “buy” the first one you see!
- Don’t be afraid to ASK the golfers to give. Make sure they understand EXACTLY how their donations will help the cause and give them a multitude of reasons to reach into their pockets throughout the day; the notion that you don’t want to “nickle and dime” your players is old hat. THAT’S WHY THEY’RE THERE! You should have contests they can enter, mulligans they can buy, a bunch of raffle prizes, silent and live auction…and, again, sponsorships for everything under the sun.
Next year, if everyone does their part, maybe that $5000 average per event will be higher….MUCH HIGHER! And if you need help figuring out ways to “do your part”, give us a call at 800-790-4653 or email info@tournamentpros.com.
