I'm in the beginning stages of donation requests for our auction in the Spring. I have my targeted businesses, request letter and gumption ready. [img]smile.gif[/img] I've read all the archives, posts and messages that encourage local contacts for donations.

My question is...What's the etiquette (or best results tips) for soliciting local businesses? I am obviously sending letters to out of town organizations and corporations, but should I simply send a letter to a local business?

If I (or a committee member) decide to walk in, do you find that most managers have authority to grant a request? Or, do I need to track down an owner? Should I walk in with letter in hand and expect to walk out with something or have you found that it takes several trips in order for the "right person" to come up with something?

Any other tips you have for local business solicitations is greatly appreciated.