This sounds like earlier threads on the subject of sponsorship of
exhibitions.  Let me add a thought:  The more you know about who comprises
your membership and attenders, the better position you will be in to solicit
market-related funding.

My primary experience is in the performing arts, as a symphony executive
director.  We did extensive audience profling - knew where the lived, levels
of education, household income, what newspapers and magazines they read, cars
they drove and any other information we could get.  It was very useful in
approaching sponsors.  We could deliver "access" to various types of market
segments.

The exhibition counts less than the audience.  If you're asking a company to
sponsor an exhibition, think about what benefits you can provide the sponsor.
 The more you can quantify the benefits, the better your chances are to win a
sponsorship.

Tom Bacchetti