Sponsorship and Fund Raising

AMTC Contestants are encouraged to find local sponsorships. These sponsors, if they meet certain criteria, may be listed in the Official AMTC Program Book, which becomes an advertising expense for a company. Thousands of grads have paid part or all of their tuition and fees to attend AMTC through local sponsors. If you are industrious with an outgoing personality, you are a natural for the sponsorship program.

We have two different Sponsorship Request brochures: one for Christians that clearly discusses AMTC from a Godly perspective and one for secular companies that discusses AMTC from a compelling worldly perspective. Both include instructions which are easy for you to personalize with a photo and small story about your dream.

How do you get Christian sponsors? Christians love to give funds and support to their brothers and sisters in Christ, because Jesus told us to love our fellow men, 'and especially those who are of the Household of Faith' (Galatians 6:10). They also know 'God loves a cheerful giver' (2 Corinthians 9:7). Approach your church and your fellow Christ-followers. Focus on those you know to be encouragers, those who love God's dreams.

Every Christian understands that the entertainment industry is dark, and many feel compelled to help in any way possible. Don't be surprised if some of them don't understand your calling, but many will. God will open their hearts and minds. As an added bonus, but not because of it, God repays all gifts that we give in His Name with His trademark of supernatural abundance.

How do you get secular sponsors? Sit down with your family and most supportive friends to make a list of prospective sponsors. The list may include family members, friends, and organizations or businesses that know you or your family. Visit the prospective sponsor in person, if possible. If visiting is not possible, send a copy of the sponsor letter and paperwork. Be enthusiastic, sharing the information and letting them know how AMTC may help you. Be grateful for any sponsor gift. Write thank-you notes both immediately upon receipt of the donation, and after AMTC, letting your sponsors know what you learned and how you did!

What do you say to your prospective sponsor? Briefly explain that you have been selected to compete in the international Actors, Models & Talent for Christ competition. You are trying to raise the fees to attend the Conference. Explain that you will have the opportunity to be seen by Agents from around the world at the most reputable Convention in the world. Each sponsor may give a monetary community endorsement or a deductible advertising expense. Have the check made out to your local AMTC Regional Director, to AMTC Direct (if you are a Direct Contestant) or to yourself.

Example of what to say:

'Hi! I'm Mary Smith, and I live right here in Billings. I am trying to be a(n) (actor, singer, dancer, model). I received a callback to attend AMTC, which is Actors, Models & Talent for Christ. They've been in business for 28 years. I will get seen by agents from around the world. AMTC has started thousands of careers, and they don't just launch stars, but role models. I am trying to raise money to help pay for my trip. I've got some information right here. We respect your business. Do you think you could give a small donation?'

What if a prospective sponsor says 'no'? Simply smile and say politely, 'thank you for your time', and be sincere. You are representing AMTC! Remember that the people who succeed in every business (including talent) are those with lots of determination and energy. Keep trying!

What if a sponsor wants a receipt? Most individuals and businesses will use their cancelled checks as a receipt. However, please take an extra copy of the Sponsor form to leave with them.

Call on potential sponsors in person! They will want to see what you are like. Always look your best! Sponsors are more likely to say 'yes' if you have made an effort to call on them in person. Children or teens should speak for themselves, with the parent watching in the background.

How many sponsors are you allowed to have? Secure as many sponsors as you need. Once you have the necessary funds to cover tuition, you may continue to add sponsors for other necessary fees, like travel or extra competitions. Any contributions of $100.00 and more will be listed in the official AMTC Program Book.

Be sure to keep a personal record of all your sponsor names, addresses and amounts. Be creative! Sponsors are often people with whom you and your family do business and already know. Remember: 100 people @ $10 = $1,000; 80 people @ $20 = $1600; 20 people @ $100 = $2000; Be sure to send thank you notes to each sponsor!

How do you get your sponsors in the AMTC program book? You can email or fax them yourself to the AMTC Administrative Office. Please remember that the deadline is six weeks before the AMTC starting date, as we must organize and typeset the Sponsors for printing. Email: dlewis@amtcworld.com or AMTC, 1126 Senoia Rd, Suites A & B, Tyrone, GA 30290; fax: 678-783-0502

What types of business have sponsored AMTC contestants in the past? Family and Friends, Lawyers, Church Groups, Banks, Credit Unions, Auto Repair/Body Shops, Car Dealers, Funeral Homes, Jewelry Stores, Plumbers, Pharmacists, Spas & Fitness Centers/Gyms, Service/Towing Stations, Office Supply Stores, Printing Shops, Hospital Equipment Stores, Mom & Pop Stores, Small Grocery Markets, Contractors, Insurance Agents, Gift Shops & Nurseries, Doctor's Office, Dentists, Accountants, Record Stores (small), Real Estate Agents, Photographers, Jaycees/Lions Club, Kiwanis/Rotary Club, Elks/Eagle Lodges, Lawn & Garden (Family-Owned), Limousine Services, Bowling Alleys, Dry Cleaners, Bingo Halls, Antique Dealers, Beauty Supply, Boating/Recreational Stores, Hotels & Motels, Flower & Card Shops, Restaurants, Veterinarians, Sporting Stores, Salons.

Hint: avoid large chains, as they have to go through corporate offices, which often takes up to 8 months for approval. On the other hand, we have also seen it work. God loves 'impossible missions!'

Comments from AMTC Contestants and Grads about the Sponsorship Program:

"My name is Sharon Mainord and I am the mother of Summer 2010 contestant Allee. I would like to share with you the AMAZING experience we have had with sponsorship donations! When Allee auditioned and was selected to attend the competition in Florida, I began to pray about how we were going to afford the expenses. While they seemed daunting at first, the Lord gently reminded me that nothing is too big for Him! He began to remind me of local business people in our town that were always helping young people and then He gave us the courage to begin seeking sponsorship donations... As of April 28, 2010, Allee has collected not only her entire AMTC conference fee, but also enough to pay all her travel expenses, extra competition fees, and she is still receiving donations as we speak! She had received her full competition fee within two weeks of her initial audition!" - Sharon Mainord

"I decided to write and send out sponsorship letters in the format suggested by AMTC. I focused my list of recipients to include any family members, my Christmas card list, and any doctors and businesses I traded with. Before leaving for convention, I had received more than enough to cover my registration fee and extra competitions. When I returned from convention more money had come in which covered my hotel, travel, and food. I ended up paying $100 out of pocket. Praise to God for his Great provision! You never know what will happen if you ask; if you don't ask then you have already closed the door." - Allyson Newcomb