Here’s the story in short: Platformation Enterprise Services Ltd. offers expertise in sport busines on a global level. Being involved in multinational projects, consulting big brands, as well as major sporting events, it has been an obvious move to support a local group of women… or a nursery school. Right? Makes no sense? I’d say it does.

Platformation  has been proud sponsor of the CSP Montessori celebrations and continues to be a Friend of Montessori. I have served as chairperson for the CSP Montessori PTA for one and a half years. We organised countless fundraising events, both big and small, some more and some less successful. It has been challenging but also very rewarding.

BECAUSE WE CAN. Local sponsorship is not costly. Period. Obviously, it depends on the business but generally, the fees are under 4 or even 3 digits. Yes, THAT cheap. Therefore, I would suggest that any local company is able to find this kind of change in their pocket and support a cause close to the doorsteps. Perhaps the challenge is the number of requests for support that local companies might receive but be patient with these charitable organisations, they are coming with good intentions. Yes, choose the one close to your heart or the one you are personally involved with, but do get involved. I understand small businesses, which run on low costs and small margins, might see £30 for a stall as a challenge to refinance during a single event AND make profit. But even so, each event, each advert, etc. is a way to promote your business and engage with new customers. The return on your investment is not always immediate but it can accumulate.

Platformation is proud sponsor of CAWC International, a social club with a philanthropic mission. CAWC International supports local causes and our sponsorship fees help to fund the club structures. I have volunteered as the sponsorship manager of the club.

BECAUSE WE CARE.  Here’s a thing. This small contribution actually makes a real difference to a local PTA, charity, club or association. It’s a hard job to raise funds. I’ve done it myself and am still doing it. It’s daunting and frustrating at times. Every pound is earned the hard way, hours and hours are invested, event after event, ideas and efforts to gain attention and create a space for the vendor, sponsor, exhibitor to be a worthwhile investment for the partners’ businesses… the expectations are high and demands are countless. BUT, when the funds are coming together and the charitable organisation is, ultimately, able to afford something they were working towards, it is all worthwhile. The benefits are real and happen straightaway, new equipment can be bought, renovations are undertaken, new adventures possible.

Just look at the joy!  With the funds raised by the PTA, we were able to pay for the “Hatch the Chicks” at the pre-school.  The children LOVED it and learned a lot at the same time! Worth all the hard work.

BECAUSE WE ARE CURIOUS.  Curious? What does this mean? Well, every connection, every situation offers an opportunity. Supporting the CSP Montessori PTA, has been an interesting journey.  I knew the setting as a parent and have then been involved as chairperson responsible for fundraising and profiling the pre-school. I found it to be a good way for me to get back on track in the working world, applying my knowledge and experience to a different area of business. I learned that virtually everything can be packaged and marketed. The mechanisms that work on a big scale, can also be relevant on a local scale too. As a sponsor, I wanted to set an example and showcase a relationship in community sponsorship. Supporting CAWC International gave me another opportunity to transfer my international experience to a local cause. And there is more to it than just getting companies to spend some money on a local cause. I actually enjoy the space and freedom to explore things, to test and develop something. It’s a welcome sensation in a world full of pressure, restrictions and closed doors. On a local / community level, ideas and enthusiasm are met with gratitude. Every effort helps the cause! 

LOCAL BUSINESS MATTER.  So, why are we a local sponsor? Ultimately, because we want to connect with the local community, build relationships and trial some ideas in the real world. I have met so many talented, compassionate and driven people while being involved in local sponsorship, it has inspired me to give back, to learn and to look for local resources. What do I get in return? I learn about my community and the people in it.  I find out about resources on my doorstep that can be helpful for my business, not to mention life.  I develop a network and conversations that can turn up the most unexpected but exciting opportunities.  If you aren’t involved you will never find out. Sponsoring at local level benefits the cause, the community and if you truly engage, it can broaden your own support base. And you never know… your logo, advert or whichever might even land under the nose of your next big client or a friend or relative who can recommend you further. “Pound for pound”, it might just be the best value lead generator you can find!

SUPPORT LOCAL – GET INVOLVED IN YOUR COMMUNITIES!

IT MATTERS – IT MAKES A CHANGE

Maria Walsh, Director Platformation Enterprise Services Ltd., July 2020

PES Community Sponsorship 07.2020