Sponsorship Coordinator

_**Please be advised, that this is not a job for compensation and is completely voluntary**_

**Organization: Carassauga India Pavilion, Canada’s Largest Multicultural Festival**

**Event Overview**

Be part of a thrilling cultural showcase at Toronto’s famous Yonge Dundas Square (Sankofa Square) This **free** festival unites communities through live performances, interactive displays, and cuisine from around the world. We are looking for a volunteer to spearhead **sponsorship** efforts, ensuring the event is fully funded without relying primarily on ticket sales or crowdfunding.

**Position Summary**

As the **Volunteer Sponsorship Coordinator**, you’ll be responsible for identifying potential sponsors, creating attractive sponsorship packages, and managing relationships. Your primary goal is to secure financial and in-kind contributions that support the festival’s operational and promotional costs while keeping it free for all attendees.

**Key Responsibilities**
- **Sponsorship Prospecting**:

- Research local businesses, corporations, and community organizations that align with the festival’s mission.
- Use platforms like LinkedIn and SponsorMyEvent to discover new partnership opportunities.
- **Sponsorship Packages & Proposals**:

- Develop tiered sponsorship packages with clear benefits (branding opportunities, VIP experiences, etc.).
- Craft compelling pitch materials and proposals to present to prospective sponsors.
- **Relationship Management**:

- Serve as the main point of contact for sponsors, ensuring timely communication and positive engagement.
- Collaborate on branding placements, marketing materials, and on-site activations.
- **Collaboration with Event Team**:

- Work closely with marketing and production teams to fulfill sponsorship deliverables (logos on banners, social media mentions, etc.).
- Coordinate sponsor signage, booth locations, or special recognition during the event.
- **Limited Crowdfunding Support** _(Optional)_
- While the focus is on sponsorship, you may provide minor support or advisory for online fundraising if needed.

**Qualifications & Skills**
- **Sponsorship or Sales Experience**: Comfortable with prospecting, pitching, and closing deals.
- **Persuasive Communication**: Ability to clearly convey sponsorship value and negotiate beneficial terms.
- **Organizational Skills**: Capable of managing multiple sponsor relationships and contractual details.
- **Team Collaboration**: Able to work in harmony with marketing, production, and logistics teams.
- **Cultural Appreciation**: Passion for diversity and community engagement.
- **Tech-Savvy**: Knowledge of platforms like **SponsorMyEvent**, **Sponseasy**, and **LinkedIn** to identify leads.

**Top Sponsorship Tools**
- **SponsorMyEvent**: A platform that connects event organizers with potential sponsors.
- **Sponseasy**: Helps create professional sponsorship proposals and manages sponsor relations.
- **LinkedIn**: Networking tool for direct outreach to corporate sponsors or decision-makers.
- **HubSpot/CRM Tools**: Track sponsorship leads, communications, and agreements.
- **Local Business Directories**: Identifying potential neighborhood or city-wide supporters.

**What’s in It for You?**
- **Hands-On Sponsorship Experience**: Gain real-world practice in partnership development for a high-profile cultural festival.
- **Networking Opportunities**: Build professional relationships with local businesses, community organizations, and city stakeholders.
- **Skill Development**: Improve pitching, negotiation, and project management capabilities.
- **Volunteer Certificate & References**: Receive official recognition and a possible reference for future roles.
- **Community Impact**: Ensure the event remains free and celebrates the city’s cultural richness.

**Time Commitment**
- **Pre-Event**: Identify and secure sponsors, draft sponsorship packages, manage sign-ups.
- **During Event**: Oversee sponsor activations, ensure deliverables are met (e.g., signage, mentions), and maintain sponsor relationships.
- **Post-Event**: Gather feedback, finalize reports, and thank sponsors for their support.

**Ready to Apply?**

**Job Types**: Internship, Commission, Volunteer

**Benefits**:

- Casual dress
- Discounted or free food
- On-site parking

Schedule:

- Weekends only

**Education**:

- DCS / DEC (required)

**Experience**:

- Sponsorships: 2 years (preferred)

Work Location: In person

Expected start date: 2025-02-15