The Difference Between Sponsorship and Event Management

Sponsorship and event management are two entirely different things. While sponsors and event managers may at times interact, both have different roles in any event that they are both part of. However, both have an important spot in whatever they are involved with.

Sponsorship

Sponsorship is when a company or individual donates money or items to an event. It may be a charity or sporting event, or any other event that is in need of sponsors. The sponsor donates money or items in exchange for getting his or her name or the company's name mentioned or seen. Often there will be signs with sponsors' names on them at events to let participants and guests know who has donated to the cause.

Sponsoring can be done on a small scale, such as when someone is taking part in a walkathon, or some such activity. People who pledge to donate a certain amount for each mile walked are sponsors. A company who donates shirts for all participants and sets up refreshment tables along the route is also a sponsor on a bigger scale. If you watch sporting events, such as ice skating and notice the boards around the rink all have company names and logos on them, these companies have sponsored the sport, therefore their name is placed on the boards to be seen by those in the audience, as well as those watching at home.

Event management

Someone involved in event management puts together events, taking care of the planning of events. In the case of the walkathon mentioned above, the event manager would be sure the route is blocked off and the tables are set up. The event manager would have sought out the sponsor to provide the shirts and refreshment. He or she would coordinate with any local agencies necessary, such as police and safety personnel. Getting participants to sign up for the event would fall under the duties of the event manager as well. The event manager brings all aspects of an event together so that it runs smoothly.