Hi. My fundraiser is actually a movie screening with the donations going to a wildlife charity, but I'm hoping to learn from any experience you've had with sponsors you'd be kind enough to share, nonetheless, as I've had trouble finding communities to discuss building your own charities and related events (other links for forums in this field would be greatly appreciated also, if known).

Concerning sponsors for a modest fundraiser that would likely gather 150-200 attendees:

1.) What do you think is an appropriate amount of money to ask for? I know there are countless variables one should consider... I'll likely have modest promotion beforehand limited to online ads, pamphlet/flyers with sponsor's names at event and on movie screen, sponsors names mentioned at event, etc. But to narrow the scope of this message, I'm ignorant of even a ballpark figure for what a reasonable amount to request for an event at this size is.

2.) I've heard some differing opinions on the best form/order of contact. Should an e-mail be sent, as well as a hard letter in the mail, and then a phone call (in this order)? Or is one sufficient? For context, I'm targeting local radio stations/alternative newspapers and companies of this size.

3.) I haven't seen any sample forms or even the issue of a contract mentioned. For a modest fundraiser, is it best to stay casual and let the sponsor simply send a check or is a contract or agreement of some sort on paper expected?

4.) In short, I have extremely little experience dealing with sponsors and want to be as prepared as I can be, so as not to burn bridges and seem unprofessional. In that aim, I'm most concerned that I'll be caught off guard somewhere between sending my proposal and the completion of the event. By that I mean I'm less than confident with the initial phone call pitching sponsorship and any back-and-forth that may occur between then and the event regarding specific details or questions they may have. Fortunately, I plan a pretty straight-forward level of involvement for them where there shouldn't be too much nuance. But any advice as to definite rules of etiquette/pitfalls to avoid would be very valuable--especially regarding the phone call. What separates an unappealing vs quality pitch? Clear demographics info, charity info, complimenting the sponsor and selling them on how they gain from it, etc.? I don't want an "uhhhh" moment with something they may ask.

I know this was long, but any advice on any of the questions is greatly appreciated and valued.

Thanks for the time and help.