How to Seek Sponsorship for a Bikepacking Adventure
Bikepacking has seen a significant rise in popularity, capturing the imaginations of adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. As it's often said in the world of business, where there's popularity, there's potential. And for bikepacking, the potential lies in securing sponsorships. Let's delve into the process and key elements of seeking sponsorship for your next bikepacking adventure.
Before getting started, you can download your Sponsorship Pitch Deck for free
Are you not well-versed in seeking sponsors? Don't fret, fellow adventurer! We've prepared a free sponsorship pitch template for you. Customize it with your own photos on Canva. You'll find it at the bottom of this page.
The Sponsoring Landscape
Current Scene: The sports and adventure domain has evolved drastically in recent years. Companies are now looking beyond conventional sports and investing in extreme adventures and outdoor activities. A fine example is the 'Red Bull Trans-Siberian Extreme', the world's longest bike race, spanning eight time zones. This shows that there is a growing interest in bikepacking, making it ripe for sponsorships.
💡 For bikepacking adventures, this changing landscape represents a newfound attention from sponsors wanting to connect with a daring, nature-loving audience.
Expectations of a Sponsor
What Do They Want?: Primarily, sponsors are seeking two things: visibility and alignment with their brand values. They want adventurers who can showcase their brand in the best possible light, resonate with their product, and have a good following, both offline and online.
Real-world Example: Let's look at Apidura, a company that specializes in bikepacking gear. They sponsor riders whose values echo their own – sustainability, adventure, and passion for the outdoors. They don't just sponsor any rider but those who can truly represent the brand in a positive and authentic manner.
💡If your bikepacking adventure is in unique terrains or takes on special challenges that align with a potential sponsor's brand, that's your sweet spot.
Crafting a Compelling Pitch
Core Components: Your proposal should include:
Consider Lael Wilcox, a prominent name in the bikepacking community. When she pitched for sponsorships, she highlighted not just her biking prowess but also her commitment to empowering women in sports. This dual approach can make a pitch truly stand out.
💡 Every bikepacking trip has a story. If you can narrate that story in a way that ties in with a brand's narrative, you're gold.
Presenting the Offer
Communicate Value: It's not just about what the sponsor can do for you, but what you can do for them. Can you offer logo placements on your gear? A mention in every vlog or blog you post? Make sure they see tangible returns on their investment.
Real-world Example: Take the Silk Road Mountain Race, sponsored by PEdALED, a bike apparel company. In return for their sponsorship, racers prominently displayed the company's logo on their apparel, offering brand visibility in every photo and video taken during the race.
💡Unique aspects of your bikepacking journey, be it the route, the challenges, or the story behind it, can be the very thing a sponsor wishes to associate with.
Conclusion
Seeking sponsorship for a bikepacking adventure is a blend of understanding the market, knowing your value, and crafting a compelling narrative. Remember, the goal is to create a win-win situation where both you and your sponsor reap the benefits. With the right approach and a dash of persistence, your bikepacking dream might just be around the corner. Safe travels!
