Event organizing in a lot of cases involves sponsors who assist immensely in cash or kind to make the event a success. In return, their logo is attached to all promotions of the event, or announcements about their contribution and their work is made during the event, but what is known in the event management world as facilitated networking just might be the key to getting sponsors more interested in your next planned event.

Facilitated Networking is a way of using your event as a networking opportunity for your sponsors. The idea is that while your event is going on, it can also serve as a platform for your sponsors to benefit from the attendance of some attendees which is a win win for everyone. These could be existing or potential clients, former colleagues, business partners etc.

It works particularly well for mid-sized seated events, such as  gala dinners talks, and presentations.

It works by asking sponsors to pick a first, second and third choice from a list of attendees they would like to sit with or meet. Not only does this not make the sponsors more eager to support your event, attendees are also more likely to show up if it is communicated to them a sponsor has chosen to meet with them at the event and is looking forward to their attendance.

This creates an opportunity for sponsors to maximize the return on their investment by starting meaningful connections and forging new relationships or reinforcing existing ones.