You have a great project, you know what to offer patrons, but you don’t know where to find them. That’s the question we hear most often. The answer isn’t “at the municipal office” or “in the phone book.” Patrons are around you — you just need to know where to look. Here are five proven places where Czech nonprofits, theatres and sports clubs really find their patrons.
1. Your own fans and visitors — the closest and most grateful
Before you start searching far away, look into your own audience. People who already know you, love your work and attend repeatedly are your best candidates for patronage. They already trust you and understand your world. All you have to do is ask.
How to do it? Give them a way to become “friends” of your organisation. A small regular donation option, the chance to name a seat in the hall, an after-show patrons’ evening. Start with your biggest fans.
2. Local entrepreneurs and small business owners — with heart on their sleeve
Owners of restaurants, real-estate agencies, garages or construction companies often have strong ties to their region. Supporting local children, a church or the town theatre comes naturally to them. Plus they’re easy to reach — they live around the corner.
How to do it? Invite them for an exclusive tour of your facilities. Show what you do. Offer visibility — their name on a jersey or in the programme. And most importantly: talk to them in person, not just by email.
3. Corporate foundations and endowment funds — structured patronage
Dozens of corporate foundations operate in the Czech Republic — Česká spořitelna, O2, ČEZ, Agrofert, PPF, and several smaller ones such as Nadace Via, Nadace OKD or Nadace Veronica. These organisations have clear rules, application deadlines and like to support projects that fit their focus (education, culture, social issues, environment).
How to do it? Follow their websites, subscribe to newsletters, and prepare your project to meet their criteria. The downside: administration. The upside: funding that can be reliable for a year ahead.
4. Public figures and celebrities — not only those from the media
Well-known names draw attention. But a patron doesn’t have to be an actor or singer. A successful architect, doctor, lawyer or entrepreneur can become a key supporter. Their network of contacts is invaluable.
How to do it? Don’t be afraid to ask. One personal message, one meeting. If your project is genuinely strong, you’ll often be surprised how many people say yes. But be careful: don’t come across as “just another applicant.” Show that this is a special opportunity.
5. Your own partners and suppliers — mutual support
Who prints your programmes? Who supplies refreshments? Who handles your accounting? They can be patrons too — through discounts, in-kind donations or small financial support. In return, give them space at your events.
How to do it? Ask your current suppliers: “Would you like to become our partner? Instead of a 10% discount, give 5% to our fund.” Many will say yes.
And where not to look for patrons?
At government offices. There you’ll find grants and subsidies, not patrons. A patron gives voluntarily, not through a selection procedure. And in the phone book of companies — cold-contacting thousands of firms with no relationship is a road to hell (and to the spam folder).
Comparison — where to start first?
| Place | Chance of success | Time required | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Your fans | High | Low | Everyone |
| Local entrepreneurs | Medium | Medium | Local projects |
| Corporate foundations | Medium | High (administration) | Projects with clear impact |
| Public figures | Low (but possible) | High | Projects with media potential |
| Your suppliers | High | Low | Any organisation |
The biggest mistake we see? Organisations search for patrons in Prague at large companies while they have twenty entrepreneurs in their own town who pass their building every day. Start locally.
– experienced fundraiser
Summary — 3 steps to start tomorrow
- Step 1: Make a list of your 10 biggest fans (people who already attend) and write them a personal message.
- Step 2: Review your suppliers — where could you turn a discount into a donation?
- Step 3: Map local entrepreneurs in your town (for example via Google Maps or links on the municipal website).
Author: Sponza editorial team
Photographs: (illustrative – map with five points, local entrepreneurs)
