Tell everyone you know about your upcoming expeditions and any related ideas. Include all your contacts. This is the best way to get expedition sponsorships, as you never know who is personally or professionally connected to a company that is looking for brand exposure in exchange for sponsorship.
Go to relevant trade shows and expositions, as company decision-makers often attend these events. For example, attend an upcoming car show, since vehicle sponsors are likely to be there. Be persistent and talk to every vendor at the show as you may frequently hear some "no's" before you get to a "yes".
Think big and nationally. Local mom-and-pop stores are much less likely to sponsor your next expedition. Approach national companies who have the funding to finance your excursions.
Get a celebrity endorsement. Major companies looking to provide expedition sponsorships are impressed by celebrity endorsements. If you are connected to or raising money for charity in your expedition, ask the charity to provide contact details to their high-profile patrons and celebrity supporters.
Hone your photographic skills. Sponsors are often keenly interested in the images of the expedition you are able to capture. Practice taking compelling pictures that tell a story to an audience, including potential sponsors.
Document your expedition in great detail by writing about your adventures via your own blog or expedition portal. Be as vivid and detailed as possible. Many sponsors simply do Internet searches for possible candidates to fund, and may bring up your site if you've been writing about your trips.
Be fair and deliver more than expected. Don't ask for $25,000 and a car on your first expedition. Consider asking for perhaps car accessories or parts, and provide the car yourself. Build up to asking for vehicles. Impress your sponsor by providing more images, writing or exposure than they thought you'd give them.
