Sponsorship opportunities for new major events in Auckland

Major events organisers and promoters planning events in Auckland from 2016/17 onwards have an opportunity to apply for sponsorship with the opening of an annual application window as of 8th July.

Auckland Tourism Events and Economic Development (ATEED), on behalf of Auckland Council, is calling for applications from New Zealand and off-shore for multi-year and one-off events from the 2016/17 financial year onwards.

The annual sponsorship window has opened earlier this year, and for a longer period, to allow potential applicants more time to submit their proposals for consideration. The application criteria, evaluation and decision-making process, and approximate funding levels will not change.

ATEED Chief Executive Brett O’Riley says the changes provide longer lead times and allow longer-term planning to make the most of opportunities around each sponsorship to ultimately enhance the quality of Auckland’s major events portfolio.

O’Riley stated “the major events sponsorship window is highly competitive and regularly oversubscribed.

“The timing changes allow Auckland to realise the full potential of each sponsorship opportunity, to deliver strong economic returns for Auckland.”

The sponsorship round gives priority to events that align with Auckland’s Major Events Strategy.

The contestable baseline major events fund for 2016/17 is approximately $1.5 million, with ATEED targeting a return on investment of $49 million and 171,000 visitor nights for its 2016/17 major events portfolio.

O’Riley added “we had an unprecedented line-up of major events over summer, including the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015, the Volvo Ocean Race Auckland Stopover and just-completed FIFA U-20 World Cup 2015 and it will be another huge year in 2017/18 with the World Masters Games.

“We have built a balanced, stable portfolio and a good understanding of the model in the events industry, so this year is perfect timing to fine-tune our sponsorship process.”

The sponsorship application period for events scheduled in the Auckland region from the 2016/17 financial year onwards closes Wednesday 2nd September 2, 2015.

Potential applicants will also have the opportunity to attend Auckland-based workshops on the Major Events Strategy and the applications process on Monday 20th July.

For more information go to www.aucklandnz.com/ateed/major-event-sponsorship

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