I recently had to decline a sponsorship for an event due to conflicting viewpoints. The potential sponsor was adamant about implementing something in a specific way, which I felt could be offensive to a particular community. I engaged in discussions and tried to reason with them, requesting they reconsider their approach to better align with the event’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. However, they remained unwilling to adapt, and ultimately, I couldn’t compromise my stance. Upholding an environment that respects and includes all communities is at the heart of what we stand for, so I chose to step away from the sponsorship. It’s essential that our partnerships reflect these values, ensuring that no community feels disrespected.

When event values clash with a sponsor's objectives, a strategic approach is essential to maintain integrity. First, communicate openly with the sponsor, clearly stating the event’s core values and exploring potential common ground. Conduct a thorough assessment to identify areas of conflict, then propose alternative sponsorship options that align with both parties’ interests. If alignment isn’t achievable, prioritize the event's values and be prepared to adjust or reconsider the partnership if necessary. Transparent documentation and clear communication with stakeholders will ensure that values remain intact.

Here's how: - Identify core conflicts: Clearly define the specific areas where the sponsor’s goals clash with your event’s values - Open dialogue with the sponsor: Arrange a meeting with the sponsor to discuss your concerns - Seek common ground: Identify any overlapping goals, such as community engagement or brand visibility, and focus on these shared objectives - Propose alternative activations: Suggest alternative ways for the sponsor to achieve their objectives that don’t compromise your event’s values - Leverage brand alignment opportunities: Highlight areas where your event’s values could enhance the sponsor’s brand image, like sustainability or community support

What's your strategy for resolving sponsor and partner conflicts at events? 1. Identify potential conflicts: Before you sign any contracts or agreements with sponsors & partners, make sure you understand their objectives, requirements & preferences. 2. Communicate clearly & regularly: It is your responsibility keep your sponsors & partners informed and engaged throughout the event planning and execution process. 3. Negotiate & compromise: sometimes you may encounter situations where your sponsors have conflicting or competing demands at the event. 4. Manage expectations & boundaries: You shouldn't agree to anything that goes against your events vision, mission or values. 5. Seek feedback & improvement: 6. Build long-term relationships:

El camino a seguir es buscar alternativas creativas que alineen los intereses de ambas partes. La clave está en comprender los intereses subyacentes y no quedarse en las posiciones superficiales, todo mientras se mantiene una comunicación abierta y se buscan soluciones win-win. Sin embargo, si no hay posibilidad de llegar a un compromiso sin que se vean comprometidos los valores fundamentales del evento, es mejor considerar desvincularse del patrocinador. Al final, la integridad y coherencia del evento y sus valores deben prevalecer.

Es un caso más común de lo que podemos pensar, ya que la mayoría de eventos deportivos tienen un periodo de maduración y preparación, y mientras transcurre este plazo de tiempo pueden aparecer discrepancias y desencuentros. Recomendaría abordarlo desde estas perspectivas: - Hay que tener una comunicación eficaz en todo momento, y detectar rápido los desalineamientos. - Hay que buscar puntos de encuentro en común, y si fuese necesario, reevaluar los motivos del acuerdo. - Siempre con la máxima prudencia, en caso de ser necesario hay que tener en mente patrocinadores alternativos, por lo que pueda pasar. - No dar por perdido el patrocinio mientras siga existiendo la voluntad de poder mantener el acuerdo al que llegamos originalmente.

La empatía y la sinergencia no se obligan, debes vender tu evento a las los patrocinantes que se identifiquen con tu trabajo.

Effective communication is essential within an open dialogue. Talking about the values of your event and the objectives of the sponsor can reveal shared interests or potential compromises, which can strengthen the relationship between both parties. Reviewing Partnership Agreements: Revisiting the terms of the partnership guarantees that both parties remain in agreement. If needed, changes can be implemented to align with your event's purpose while maintaining its credibility. Looking for different sponsors: If alignment is not possible, consider finding new sponsors that have values that match your event's goals better, which could be beneficial for both parties.