Here are a few ideas that have worked for me in the past. Find out what type of things they like to sponsor and target your proposal around that. (ex: specific items, general funding, education, low-income children, etc.). Keep it professional and to the point without making it flowery. Would be helpful if the PTO President and Principal both put their name to it as it shows that those in "power" are supportive of what you are asking for. If possible include numbers, such as % of kids who have special needs or who are low-income, teacher to student ratio, etc. Most important, emphasize what you can do for them and what they will get out of it. General examples are: name on an event, (Lowe's movie night), advertising on flyers going home (can put their logo on the back), recognition in local advertising (if appropriate), advertising to parents announcing the generous donation, knowledge that they are contributing to a positive educational experience and environment, advertising to all the teachers and parents of students at the school which could result in increased business for them. I am sure there are others, but that is just off the top of my head. When you have a lot of information, bullets, short sentences and spacing become important as the proposal becomes easier to read. Hope this is helpful.
