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. Many participants have paid part or all of their expenses to attend AMTC through local sponsors. If you are industrious with an outgoing personality, you are a natural for this program. We advise you to take the following letter, along with a personalized page about yourself, to local businesses within your community.
Who are sponsors and why do you need them? Sponsors help pay your competition expenses so that the funds do not come out of your monthly budget.
How do you get sponsors? Sit down with your family and most supportive friends to make a list of prospective sponsors. The list may include family members, friends, organizations and businesses with whom your family works. 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 gracious for any sponsor gift.
What do you say to your prospective sponsor? Briefly explain that you have been selected to compete in the international Actors Model and Talent 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 call back to attend AMTC, which is the actors, models & talent competition. It’s a Christian company that’s been in business for 26 years. It’s pretty famous, and I’m excited about it. I will get seen by agents from around the world. They’ve launched thousands of careers. 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. Have a sponsor packet made up to give to each person. Introduce yourself and tell them that you are excited to be selected as a contestant at the AMTC.
How many sponsors are you allowed to have? Secure as many sponsors as you need. Once you have the necessary funds to cover basic competition fees, you may continue to add sponsors for other necessary expenses (ex: photo shoots, travel, etc.) 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? Your Director can send them in for you, or 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, Antiques 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.
