Battle of the Badges, a highly anticipated annual charity boxing event featuring police officers, firefighters, and other first responders, needed to boost ticket sales and donations for its 2024 edition. Despite the event’s history of success, competition from other community events and limited digital presence posed a challenge in reaching a broader audience and engaging younger generations. The event organizers wanted to create buzz, drive attendance, and surpass previous fundraising records.

Carlfred Radio Digital designed a multi-channel marketing campaign that highlighted the heart and excitement behind the Battle of the Badges while engaging the community:

1. Dynamic Radio Advertising Campaign:
   • Produced high-energy, adrenaline-filled radio spots that captured the excitement of the event.
   • Featured testimonials from participants (firefighters and police officers) about their reasons for stepping into the ring and their dedication to supporting local charities.
   • Aired the ads on top radio stations, targeting key drive-time slots to maximize reach.
2. Social Media Hype Campaign:
   • Created countdown posts, behind-the-scenes training videos of participants, and event teasers to generate excitement.
   • Launched a “Who Will Win?” poll, encouraging friendly competition between the teams (police vs. firefighters) to engage fans.
   • Partnered with local influencers and community leaders to promote the event.
3. Community Engagement:
   • Organized meet-and-greet sessions with the participants at local hotspots to build personal connections and drive ticket sales.
   • Partnered with local businesses for co-branded promotions, such as “Battle of the Badges Special” menu items or discounts for ticket holders.
4. Online Ticketing and Donations:
   • Optimized the event website for online ticket sales and donations, with clear calls-to-action and user-friendly navigation.
   • Launched email campaigns targeting previous attendees and donors, offering early-bird ticket discounts and VIP seating options.
5. Live Streaming and Digital Access:
   • Introduced a paid live-streaming option for out-of-town supporters and those unable to attend in person, expanding the reach of the event.

• Sold-Out Event:
  • Tickets sold out two weeks before the event, surpassing attendance goals by 25%.
• Record-Breaking Fundraising:
  • The event raised 35% more funds than the previous year, setting a new record for donations.
• Community Buzz:
  • Social media engagement skyrocketed, with over 50,000 impressions across platforms and significant shares of the “Who Will Win?” poll.
  • Local influencers and community partnerships brought in hundreds of new attendees who had never participated before.
• Expanded Reach with Live Streaming:
  • Over 1,000 viewers purchased the live-streaming option, generating an additional revenue stream and engaging supporters outside the local area.