Sponsorship Agreement (South Dakota): Free template

Sponsorship Agreement (South Dakota): Free template

Sponsorship Agreement (South Dakota)

A Sponsorship Agreement is a legal contract between a sponsor (the "Sponsor") and an individual, organization, or event (the "Sponsored Party"), where the Sponsor provides financial support, goods, or services in exchange for promotional benefits. In South Dakota, this agreement must comply with state laws regarding contracts, advertising, intellectual property, and consumer protection. A well-drafted agreement ensures clarity, minimizes disputes, and protects both parties' interests.

For example, a local business in Sioux Falls might enter into a Sponsorship Agreement with a nonprofit hosting a community festival in Rapid City. A clear agreement specifies sponsorship deliverables, payment terms, promotional obligations, and other critical details.

Tips for drafting and maintaining a Sponsorship Agreement in South Dakota

  1. Identify the parties: Clearly specify the names, contact information, and roles of both the Sponsor and the Sponsored Party.
    • Example: “This Sponsorship Agreement is entered into by [Sponsor Name], located at [Address], and [Sponsored Party Name], located at [Address].”
  2. Define the sponsorship scope: Outline the specific goods, services, or financial contributions provided by the Sponsor.
    • Example: “The Sponsor agrees to provide $[Amount] in financial support and/or [Description of Goods/Services] to the Sponsored Party for [Event/Project Name].”
  3. Specify promotional benefits: List the promotional benefits the Sponsored Party will provide to the Sponsor, such as logo placement, social media mentions, or speaking opportunities.
    • Example: “The Sponsored Party shall display the Sponsor’s logo prominently on all event materials, including banners, flyers, and digital platforms.”
  4. Address timelines and milestones: Detail the schedule for sponsorship activities, including deadlines for payments, deliverables, and promotional obligations.
    • Example: “The Sponsor shall provide the agreed-upon sponsorship funds no later than [Date], and the Sponsored Party shall fulfill promotional obligations by [Date].”
  5. Include exclusivity provisions: Clarify whether the Sponsor has exclusive rights within a specific industry or category.
    • Example: “The Sponsored Party agrees not to accept sponsorship from any other businesses in the [Industry/Category] during the term of this agreement.”
  6. Add intellectual property provisions: Clarify ownership of intellectual property, such as logos, trademarks, or content created during the sponsorship.
    • Example: “All intellectual property rights related to the Sponsor’s branding materials shall remain the exclusive property of the Sponsor.”
  7. Include liability and indemnification: Clarify each party’s liability in case of errors, damages, or breaches of the agreement.
    • Example: “The Sponsored Party shall indemnify and hold harmless the Sponsor from any claims arising out of the Sponsored Party’s actions or omissions.”
  8. Include a termination clause: Specify conditions under which the agreement can be terminated by either party.
    • Example: “This agreement may be terminated by either party with [Number] days’ written notice if the other party fails to fulfill its obligations.”
  9. Outline governing law and jurisdiction: Ensure the agreement specifies that it is governed by South Dakota law and identifies the appropriate courts for dispute resolution.
    • Example: “This agreement is governed by the laws of the State of South Dakota. Any disputes arising under this agreement shall be resolved in the courts of [County], South Dakota.”
  10. Include signatures: Both parties must sign and date the agreement to make it legally binding.
    • Example: “IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Sponsorship Agreement as of the date first written above.”

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q: What happens if the Sponsored Party does not meet their obligations in South Dakota?

A: The Sponsor may seek remedies such as refunds, termination of the agreement, or legal action, depending on the terms outlined in the agreement.

Q: Can the Sponsor modify the Sponsored Party’s promotional materials in South Dakota?

A: Yes, but only if the agreement includes a provision allowing the Sponsor to approve or suggest changes to the materials before they are finalized.

Q: How are conflicts handled under South Dakota law?

A: Conflicts are typically addressed through negotiation, mediation, or litigation. Including a dispute resolution clause in the agreement can simplify the process.

Q: What happens if the event or project is postponed in South Dakota?

A: The agreement should specify whether sponsorship funds are refundable or transferable to a future event or project.

Q: Are non-compete clauses enforceable in South Dakota?

A: Non-compete clauses are enforceable in South Dakota if they are reasonable in scope, duration, and geographic area. They help protect the Sponsor’s investment.

Q: Can the Sponsored Party promote competing sponsors alongside the primary Sponsor in South Dakota?

A: Only if the agreement allows for it. Exclusivity clauses can restrict the Sponsored Party from promoting competing sponsors.


This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.