Unlocking MDF Funds: Insights from the Xchange Conference 

Content by: David Walter from MTS

Unlocking MDF Funds: Insights from the Xchange Conference 

I recently had the opportunity to attend the Xchange event by Channel Company in search of Market Development Funds (MDF) for our IT company. As many Managed IT Services Providers (MSPs) know, securing MDF can be a game-changer for marketing and business growth. Here’s a valuable hack I discovered at the conference that could benefit fellow MSPs. 

The Quest for MDF Funds 

At the Xchange event, I was particularly interested in exploring how to maximize our MDF opportunities with our vendors. One of our key vendors, PAX 8, was present, and by chance, I ended up having a conversation with the head of their sports marketing program. Initially, most of my requests for MDF were declined because they were tied to our current spending with PAX 8. However, this conversation took an interesting turn. 

The Sports Marketing MDF Hack 

The representative from PAX 8 shared a little-known strategy for securing MDF funds through their sports marketing program. Here’s the secret: PAX 8 allocates MDF funds based on non-PAX 8 IT companies moving their vendor relationships over and purchasing through PAX 8. Essentially, if you can bring new business to PAX 8, they will take a portion of that new revenue and assign it to you as MDF to fund events at major sporting venues like the Spurs, Rockets, or Mavericks. 

Why This Matters 

From personal experience, I can attest that using MDF funds to host an event at a major sporting event, such as renting a suite at a Spurs game in San Antonio, can be one of the best marketing investments you can make. These events are not just about the game; they are about building relationships and creating an environment where potential clients feel valued and engaged. The rapport and reciprocity built during these events often lead to closing deals that were previously pending. 

Actionable Steps for MSPs 

If you’re an MSP not currently buying through PAX 8, I highly recommend reaching out to them to start this process. By leveraging this strategy, you can unlock precious MDF funds and create memorable experiences for your clients that drive business growth. 

Conclusion 

Attending the Xchange conference was an eye-opening experience, and the insights gained, particularly regarding MDF funds, were invaluable. By understanding and utilizing the sports marketing MDF hack shared by PAX 8, MSPs can significantly enhance their marketing efforts and close more deals. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to leverage MDF funds for your next big client event.  Please reach out to me if you’re able to take advantage of this program as I would love to hear your story!