Non-Profit Trade Shows

Increase positive exposure for your organization at a non-profit trade show
By Linda C. Ray Non-profit trade shows offer great opportunities to get your name out and to make additional contacts that could turn into fund-raising opportunities. Many organizations even accept direct donations at various types of non-profit trade shows and gain valued contributors. Through non-profit trade show services you can make a powerful presentation that will get you noticed among your peers and recognized as a leader by your funders.

Non-profit trade show information is easily accessible through industry associations and vendors. You should plan ahead and include at least one non-profit tradeshow in your annual marketing budget. Check a non-profit trade show directory to find which trade show will be the most beneficial and then make your best showing. There are a number of ways you can participate successfully in non-profit tradeshows.

1. Find well-attended non-profit tradeshows

2. Set up an eye-catching booth at a non-profit trade show

3. Hire a consultant to help you sort through non-profit trade show services

Investigate regional and national non-profit trade shows

Whether you are trying to reach consumers or businesses, non-profit trade show consultants can steer you in the right direction to reach your potential customers. Or look yourself for the local or national trade show that will bring you the most exposure and help you get the most out of your investment.
Try:  While you will want to find industry specific tradeshows where you’re most likely to find support, you can also take part in the trade shows and events of your peers through the National Council of Nonprofit Associations. Support your local Chamber of Commerce by getting a booth at their local trade shows. Chambers are non-profit business organizations that promote small business. They typically involve other non-profit groups as well as for-profit businesses.

Make the most of your non-profit trade show information

Take the time to find out how you can make a great presentation and create the kind of booth that will draw customers and curious clients to your exhibit. Put your services and products on display in a smart-looking exhibit space and give away promotional items to carve a niche in your visitors' memories.
Try:  CM Designs works with schools, government agencies and nonprofit organizations to help them find economical items on which they can put their name. Motivators keeps an eye out for non-profits with low budgets. They can help you find memorable giveaways that will keep your name in front of your visitors long after they leave the show.

Use non-profit trade show advice to make a great impression

Since your business is helping your members and your constituency to get the best assistance they can, you may not have any expertise in putting on a top-grade successful trade show exhibit. Consider bringing in experts to help you find the best placement for your booth as well as how to get the most out of your trade show participation.
Try:  That’s Nice has extensive experience assisting non-profit groups to find and get the most out of their trade show experience. Gary Shultz Consulting specializes in consulting services for non-profit organizations and trade shows. Together, the expertise of the company can help you get the best return on your investment.

• Attend a non-profit tradeshow or send key employees to check them out before you make any decisions about which ones will benefit your organization.