How to get your first sponsorship as a creator on Twitch
Securing a sponsorship is a milestone for any Twitch streamer, marking the transition from hobbyist to professional. Sponsorships not only provide financial support but also validate your efforts and can significantly boost your channel's growth. We've curated some of our top recommendations on what to do to get your first sponsorship as a creator on Twitch.
Understand your value
Before reaching out to potential sponsors, it's crucial to understand what you bring to the table. Sponsors are interested in your audience's size and engagement levels, but also in how well your channel aligns with their brand. Identify your unique selling points, whether it's your niche, community culture, or content style.
Build your brand
Consistency in your streaming schedule, content quality, and online presence across platforms strengthens your brand. A strong, recognizable brand makes you more attractive to sponsors by demonstrating professionalism and commitment.
Create a media kit
A media kit is your resume. It should include your channel stats (average viewership, follower count, engagement rate), audience demographics, content highlights, and contact information. Make sure it reflects your brand and is updated regularly.
Identify potential sponsors
Look for brands that align with your content and audience. Start with products or services you already use and love, as your genuine enthusiasm will come through in your pitch. Don’t limit yourself to gaming-related sponsors; consider lifestyle brands that might be interested in your audience.
Network and build relationships
Networking can significantly increase your chances of securing a sponsorship. Engage with potential sponsors on social media, attend industry events, and participate in community forums. Building relationships with other streamers can also lead to introductions and recommendations.
Craft your pitch
When you're ready to reach out, tailor your pitch to each sponsor. Highlight how a partnership with your channel can benefit them, referencing specific aspects of your content or audience that align with their brand. Be professional but let your personality shine through.
Offer value
Sponsors want to know what they’ll get in return. Offer clear, specific proposals like dedicated streams, product reviews, or brand mentions during broadcasts. Be open to negotiation and consider creative ways to integrate their brand into your content.
Be professional
Treat your sponsorship outreach as a professional business inquiry. This means being courteous, responding promptly to communications, and following up if you haven’t heard back in a reasonable time frame. You'd be surprised how many creators I have come across that fail to be professional. This is an immediate red flag for any brand and should be treated as one of the most important points.
Learn and improve
Not every pitch will result in a sponsorship, but each attempt is a learning opportunity. Ask for feedback if a brand decides not to proceed and use that information to refine your approach for next time.
In short
Landing your first sponsorship on Twitch requires preparation, research, and a bit of persistence. By understanding your value, building a strong brand, and approaching potential sponsors with tailored, professional pitches, you can secure partnerships that support your streaming career and open doors to new opportunities. Remember, each sponsorship is a stepping stone to larger deals and a more successful channel.