101 Project Management Problems and How to Solve Them

17. What can I do when my project loses its sponsor?

Projects always begin with a sponsor. Sometimes as a project progresses, however, sponsors move on, lose interest, or otherwise disengage from projects that they initiate. Strong sponsorship is essential for a successful project manager so if you do lose your sponsor, work to find a new one as soon as possible.

Identifying Sponsor Candidates

Any managers in your organization who will suffer consequences if your project fails are potential new sponsors for your project. Other possibilities to consider are managers who have the authority to cancel your project. The best replacement sponsor candidates will be managers who have a passion for your project’s goals, or who deeply care about something ...