AHI Awards Program Marketing

In 2012 MemberBoat stepped in as the Institute’s ‘virtual’ marketing department, with a long-term goal to transform the awards program into the premier event on the social housing industry calendar. MemberBoat and the AHI have worked together to overcome challenges such as the low number of nominations and engagement, low level of revenue and sponsor interest, and a limited not-for-profit marketing budget.

Year after year the program has grown exponentially. By 2019 the Institute received 150+ entries and the program was supported by almost 20 sponsors. Awards ceremonies attracted more than 450 people from the small industry, including Ministers for Housing in different jurisdictions and other distinguished guests.

In 2017 the AHI has received 143 nominations and filled all available sponsorship categories, bringing the Institute significant and much-needed revenue. Almost all state awards receptions are attended by honoured guests, including Ministers for Housing in most states. Event attendance is high across the country, even including smaller states like WA, ACT and TAS. The AHI expects 250+ attendees for the Australasian Awards reception at the end of 2017.

From the easy-to-use online application form to the new bias-free judging process and well-managed promotional campaign, the awards program runs smoothly for everyone involved.

“The decision to delegate the project to Memberboat has delivered measurable benefits to the Institute and its stakeholders. Recently MemberBoat’s innovative approach has included digital solutions for the awards’ online application forms, an interactive online member survey and automated EDMs through third-party platforms,” says AHI Executive Officer, Kelly Badewitz.

“Currently the AHI is also exploring a membership renewal solution via text messages. The benefits of such innovations are reduced costs, greater interaction with members, and consistent branding across all third-party platforms.”

The MemberBoat team assisted the Institute with developing a new awards branding and marketing plan, creating a special online environment for entrants and judges to easily operate. MemberBoat also built important partnership programs and valuable sponsorship packages.

At MemberBoat we aim to help your organisation create a flawless awards experience for your entrants, judges and sponsors. Starting with a thorough assessment of your existing processes and potential difficulties, we can develop an integrated program including:

• Your awards’ brand
• Promotional plan
• Intuitive environment for entrants and judges to operate in
• Sponsorship proposals and event management

We can either assist your association with certain elements of your Professional Awards, or take responsibility for the whole project ourselves.