What is it?
Newsletter Sponsorship involves creating and distributing a regular email newsletter about your expedition or adventure project, then partnering with local businesses or supporters who pay to have their ads featured. This method is great for teen fundraisers because it builds a loyal audience over time and offers ongoing income potential.
Why does it work?
People love following authentic stories and updates, especially when they feel personally connected to the fundraiser’s journey. By showcasing local sponsors in your newsletter, you provide valuable exposure to businesses while creating a win-win relationship. The recurring nature of newsletters also means sponsors can commit to monthly support.
Step-by-step plan
1
Define the focus of your newsletter – share updates, training progress, fundraising milestones, and interesting facts related to your trip.
2
Set up an email newsletter account on a platform like Mailchimp or Substack, which offer free plans for beginners.
3
Create a simple sign-up form and promote it among your friends, family, school, and community to build your subscriber list.
4
Design your first few newsletters with engaging content and include a dedicated space for sponsor ads – make sure the ads look professional and fit the newsletter style.
5
Compile a list of local businesses, clubs, or organisations that might want to reach your audience and prepare a sponsorship proposal outlining the benefits of advertising in your newsletter.
6
Contact these potential sponsors via email, phone, or in-person visits, presenting your proposal and offering monthly or single-issue sponsorship packages.
7
Once sponsors sign up, include their ads in your newsletters on the agreed schedule and keep your subscribers engaged with consistent, quality content.
8
Regularly report back to your sponsors on newsletter performance (open rates, feedback) to maintain good relationships and encourage renewals.
Realistic earnings
Most teenagers can expect to earn between £20 and £50 per month through newsletter sponsorship, depending on the size of their subscriber base and the local businesses' willingness to invest. While this might not cover all expenses alone, it provides a steady supplementary income throughout your fundraising journey.
Top tips
✅ Be consistent: send newsletters on a regular schedule (weekly or monthly) so subscribers and sponsors know when to expect updates.
✅ Keep content engaging and authentic; personal stories and photos make your newsletter more memorable and shareable.
✅ Tailor your sponsorship packages – offer different price points or ad sizes to suit small and bigger businesses.
✅ Always follow up politely with potential sponsors and show gratitude to those who support you.
Common mistakes to avoid
⚠️ Neglecting to build a good subscriber list before approaching sponsors – businesses want reach, so grow your audience first.
⚠️ Making newsletters too long or boring; keep them concise and visually appealing to maintain reader interest.
⚠️ Overloading newsletters with too many ads, which can annoy subscribers and reduce engagement.