Get customers by partnering with local colleges

I read just about everything I see as I find it pays off in big ways by helping power creative thoughts.  Well last night I was browsing the local college's continuing studies guide and I ran across a golf class being offered at a local course on the indoor golf machine.

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I thought to myself  "this is brilliant".  The course is getting free advertising to a well-targeted demographic for golfers while potentially generating income and new customers at the same time.

I immediately went to the school's website to see what they were doing and here is what I found:
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Come play some of the finest courses in the world (such as St. Andrews, Pebble Beach, Troon North, and Torrey Pines) on our Indoor Golf Simulator! Students receive four rounds of indoor golf and may bring up to three additional players with them at no additional fee to join in on the fun. Come Rain, shine, or the winter chill: the weather can't stop you now! 

The class is $375 and instructions have potential students calling the golf facility directly versus registering through the school.  In looking through the online catalog a bit further I found that this wasn't the only offering.  There were others targeting juniors and seniors on the site.  Pretty cool and creative idea to extend your marketing budget.

Call your local college today and offer to create a golf class for their continuing studies program.

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The Benefits of Collaborating with Colleges

​When you consider partnering with local colleges, the benefits are twofold: you gain new customers while providing a unique service to students. Here’s how this partnership can work to your advantage:

1. Targeted Demographics
Colleges are home to a diverse group of individuals who are often eager to explore new activities. By offering golf classes through the college’s continuing studies program, you can attract students who are interested in learning the sport, whether they are complete beginners or looking to improve their skills.

2. Cost-Effective Advertising
Partnering with a college provides you with free advertising to a specific audience. As students enroll in golf classes, they become ambassadors for your indoor golf facility, spreading the word to friends and family. The college's marketing efforts will also highlight your facility, giving you access to their promotional channels.

3. Enhanced Customer Experience
Offering a structured golf class adds value to the student experience. For example, students can play on world-renowned courses like St. Andrews, Pebble Beach, Troon North, and Torrey Pines using your indoor golf simulator. The opportunity to bring friends along at no extra charge makes it even more appealing, creating a fun and social atmosphere.

4. Additional Revenue Streams
Charging for these classes can generate significant income for your facility. With a price point of around $375 for a comprehensive course, it’s an attractive option for both the college and your business. Students will appreciate the chance to learn in a comfortable, controlled environment, regardless of the weather.

How to Get Started with a College Partnership

If this idea has piqued your interest, here’s how to begin:

1. Contact Your Local College: Reach out to the department responsible for continuing studies or adult education at your local college. Most colleges are looking for unique courses to offer their students, and a golf simulator class fits the bill perfectly.
2. Propose a Course: Develop a basic outline for the class. How many rounds of golf will students get? Will there be an instructor, or will it be self-paced? Highlight the unique aspects of your facility, such as the renowned courses available on your simulator and the opportunity for students to bring friends at no extra charge.
3. Promote the Course: Once the course is listed, don’t rely solely on the college to promote it. Mention the partnership in your own marketing materials, social media, and newsletters. This helps build credibility and spreads the word to a broader audience.
4. Consider Other Audiences: Colleges often offer programs targeting different demographics, including juniors, seniors, and community groups. You can create specialized golf courses for these groups to further diversify your offerings.

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The Benefits of College Partnerships

Collaborating with a local college to offer indoor golf classes is an innovative way to extend your marketing reach while generating additional income for your facility. Not only do you get to tap into a diverse, eager-to-learn demographic, but you also gain exposure through free college marketing channels.
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By thinking outside the box and finding new ways to promote your indoor golf center, you’re not just attracting golfers—you’re attracting people looking for fun, social experiences. So, call your local college today and start brainstorming ways to create the next must-attend golf class in your community!