How to get sponsored

1 When a company support you, they’re trusting you to represent them at all times. You need to wear their clothing, use their kit and generally be a good ambassador. It pays to just be yourself, though. Even if I’m just popping out of the house, I always make sure I’m representing my sponsors by wearing a T-shirt or cap. Someone may notice the Identiti Bikes logo and get chatting – it’s all about networking!

2 Talking face to face with the right people is the best way to get support. When someone can see your passion for the ideas in your head, they’re more likely to help you. Brands receive hundreds of emails daily asking for sponsorship, so you have to do something different to stand out. Find out who the marketing manager is and call them up.

3 Create an awesome riding CV, with lots of pictures and videos – they speak louder than words.

4 Don’t promise things you can’t achieve! We’ve all done it, and it’s taken me a while to rein in my ideas/goals so that they’re realistic for me. This year it’s really paid off, because I’m getting everything I wanted ticked off and keeping everyone happy.

5 Last but not least, spellcheck your proposal. Starting with, “Im looking for sponsership...” won’t get you very far.