TVP NYC and Total Commerce Partners collaborated with Cancer for College to create a premium merchandise strategy for the 2024 Will Ferrell Ultimate DJ House Party event. Leveraging over a decade of expertise in celebrity-driven fundraising, this partnership resulted in a collection that delighted attendees and raised significant funds for Cancer for College’s critical programming.
THE EVENT
Cancer for College’s 2024 Will Ferrell Ultimate DJ House Party, held at Wintrust Arena in Chicago on October 26, 2024, brought together supporters, celebrities, and music lovers to raise funds for scholarship programs benefiting college cancer survivors. This high-profile event required merchandise that reflected its star power while reinforcing Cancer for College’s mission.
THE CHALLENGE
Cancer for College sought to maximize revenue and engagement through event merchandise. We were tasked to take care of brainstorming, sourcing, and production while the event space team navigated the logistics of on-site distribution. The challenge was to create a collection that appealed to attendees and supporters alike, served as an impactful fundraiser, and streamlined the ordering and delivery process to enhance the event experience.
THE SOLUTION
TVP NYC and Total Commerce Partners delivered a tailored merchandise program:
Product Development and Sourcing
We designed a premium capsule collection featuring t-shirts, hoodies, beanies, and socks. Each item incorporated on-brand messaging, traditional concert-inspired designs, and Cancer for College’s branding. The collection balanced aesthetic appeal with functionality to ensure its success as both concert merch and a fundraising tool.
Streamlined Production and Distribution
We oversaw every step of production, ensuring quality and timely delivery. Remaining inventory from the event was sent to a warehouse, ensuring no excess stock went to waste. The event space team managed the on-site distribution process efficiently, delivering a seamless experience for attendees.
RESULTS
Financial Success
With an estimated 80% sell-through rate of the 3,000-piece collection, the event raised significant funds for Cancer for College’s scholarship programs.
Brand Engagement
The collection resonated with attendees and supporters, increasing awareness for Cancer for College’s mission. High-quality designs and thoughtful branding created a memorable connection between the organization and its audience.
Enhanced Event Experience
Efficient on-site distribution ensured minimal queues and maximized attendee satisfaction. The premium merchandise served as both a keepsake and a testament to the cause, reinforcing the event’s impact.
GOING FORWARD
This partnership demonstrates how a strategic merchandise plan can amplify a fundraising event’s impact. TVP NYC and Total Commerce Partners successfully blended creative design, logistical expertise, and effective marketing to support Cancer for College’s mission. This collaboration set a benchmark for how branded merchandise can elevate both the financial and emotional success of a high-profile event.
