How To Secure #BlackSportsBiz Sponsorship From Your Employer [Sample Letter Inside!]

The Black Sports Business Symposium is designed to ensure equitable access to all of the opportunities the sports business industry has to offer while also cultivating, illuminating, and celebrating the industry’s Black professionals and students.

Our annual event is thoughtfully organized and curated to ensure there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

If you would like to attend the 2024 Symposium, and need assistance convincing your employer to sponsor your registration, we’re here to help! Take a look at our tips and a sample letter you can customize for your employer.

Step Up To The Plate

Before pitching the idea of attending the Symposium, identify why our event would be a win for your professional development as well as your company’s bottom line. Consider highlighting the history of the Symposium, our numerous networking and new business opportunities, the insights you can gain from our featured speakers, and more.

Tee Up

Once you’ve completed your research, it’s time to present your idea to your supervisor. Write an email and/or proposal outlining the benefits of attending and the return on investment ahead of a virtual or in-person meeting. Be sure to also include details on the cost to attend, the date of the Symposium to ensure it aligns with your team’s budget and project timelines.

Don’t forget to also tie your job responsibilities into your ask by highlighting how the program directly ties into your daily tasks.

Before meeting with your direct report, prepare answers to all of the anticipated questions relating to why sponsoring your attendance is the way to go.

Play Hardball

If your employer says no to your original request, don’t throw in the towel immediately. Take a moment to revamp your proposal to address any concerns they may have. If timing is an issue, consider a compromise of the days you can attend the Symposium so the full event does not impact your work schedule.

Ready to join us in Atlanta this summer? Register for the 2024 Black Sports Business Symposium today!

Below is a sample letter you can send to your employer!

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my interest in attending the upcoming Black Sports Business Symposium scheduled to take place from May 29 – June 1 in Atlanta, Georgia at Mercedes Benz- Stadium. As a dedicated member of the [Your Company] team, I believe that my attendance at this conference will bring significant value to our organization.

The Symposium is known for its comprehensive coverage of the sports industry from Partnerships, Marketing, Ticketing, Brand Building, Public Relations, Content Creation and beyond. This conference presents a unique opportunity for professionals in our field to stay updated on the latest industry trends, network with industry experts, and gain insights into best practices for teams, leagues, brands, and agencies. The knowledge and skills acquired at this event can undoubtedly contribute to our company’s success and competitive edge.

Here are a few key reasons why my attendance at The Black Sports Business Symposium would be beneficial for [Your Company]:

Professional Development: Looking at last year’s conference agenda there are sessions and workshops led by industry leaders, providing an excellent platform for me to enhance my skills and stay current with industry best practices. See here for more information.

Networking Opportunities: Attending the conference will allow me to connect with professionals with diverse backgrounds and skill sets, fostering valuable relationships that could potentially lead to collaborations and partnerships beneficial to our company.

Market Intelligence: The conference will host discussions on market trends, consumer preferences, and competitor strategies, providing valuable insights that can guide our company’s strategic planning and decision-making processes.

Considering the potential benefits, I am seeking approval and support to attend the 2024 Black Sports Business Symposium and I am confident that the knowledge and connections I acquire will contribute positively to [Your Company]’s goals.

I have attached a detailed breakdown of the estimated costs, including registration fees, accommodation, and travel expenses. I am committed to minimizing expenses where possible and am open to exploring cost-sharing options.

I am happy to discuss this further at your convenience and am prepared to provide a post-conference report to share the insights and knowledge gained with the team at large.

Thank you for considering my request. I am eager to contribute more effectively to the success of [Your Company], and I believe that attending the 2024 Black Sports Business Symposium is a strategic investment in achieving this goal.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]