5 Tips for Hosting a Last-Minute Fundraising Tournament

Posted on February 24th, 2014 | Author: | Category: National

We know that golf tournaments are a fun and easy way to raise money for your favorite cause or charity, but what if you're planning a last-minute tournament and need the "quick and dirty" lo-down on what you definitely cannot cut corners on? Here are five tips to help you out as you plan your tournament on a short timeline.

  1. Book your tournament at a course with a full-service event and Golf Shop staff.
    If you're planning a last-minute tournament, you'll need all the help you can get! Important questions to ask include: does the Golf Shop help set up the tournament (e.g., sponsor signs, banners, and contests)? Does the catering staff help set up the banquet facilities? Having professionals help you is key – they’ve done it all before, don’t try to reinvent the wheel!
  1. Ask if the course offers any nonprofit discounts. Or, if you're hosting your tournament early or late in the season, ask if there are discounts to play in the 'shoulder' seasons.
    If a course has a date open when you inquire two months in advance, chances are they want to book that date. Don’t be afraid to ask for last-minute booking deals or discounts.
  1. Gather sponsorships and auction items from people you know.
    Form a committee and have each committee member commit to asking 10-20 people they know if they would like to sponsor the tournament or donate an auction item. The best way to get people to donate is to ask those you already know and have established a relationship. It’s been said in many fundraising circles that while people love to donate to a cause, they also love to donate to people they respect and care about, so don’t be afraid to ask.
  1. Ask your Tournament Director if they can help spread the word.
    One of the main reasons people want a lot of time to plan large events is to secure enough people to attend – but you don’t have to do it on your own! The more people who attend your tournament, the more profitable it is for everyone, so ask your Tournament Director if he/she is able to advertise your event to email lists or on social media sites. Directors likely have thousands of subscribers on their lists. If you’re hosting at a private club, people will be especially interested in a chance to play at an exclusive course.
  1. Host Contests!
    Hole contests are a great way to bring in extra cash for your charity! Certain contests require that the players "pay to play," while other contests will incentivize more people to attend. Popular contests include KP (Closest to the Pin), Longest Drive, Hole-in-One (Make sure to get insurance!), Putting Contests, The Accuracy Drive, and Bunker Shot Contests. Ask the Tournament Director or Golf Shop for more fun and creative ideas.

Now that you know the 5 tips, go out and plan that tournament! If you need help, you can always contact our tournament team at golftournamentmanagement.com to help you plan your tournament today!

Submitted by Golf Tournament Management team.

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