Looking to boost engagement in your passport event? You’ve built the guide, curated awesome activities, and now… you need people to actually use it. That’s where Proxi’s new direct messaging feature comes in!

You can now send emails straight from your map to participants! No more exporting lists or third-party tools. Whether it’s nudging someone to check in, reminding folks to visit one more business, or announcing a surprise giveaway, messaging helps you drive action at just the right moment.

Not sure where to start? Here are 10 smart, high-impact ways to use messaging to level up your passport-style event:

1. Welcome New Participants

Start the experience on the right foot with a friendly, automated welcome message as soon as someone joins or accesses your map. This is your chance to greet them warmly, set expectations, and provide any info they need to dive in with confidence.

Example Message:
"Welcome to the Summer Passport Challenge! 🌞 Check in at participating locations, earn points, and unlock prizes. Ready to explore? Let's go!"

Pro Tips:

Include a link to your FAQ, rules, or prize info
Mention any start deadlines or how check-ins work
Keep it short, upbeat, and clear

2. Remind Them to Check In

Participation dipping mid-week? Give folks a little boost with a check-in reminder. These gentle nudges can re-engage participants who might have gotten busy or forgotten to log their visits.

Message Options:

Friendly & Direct: “Haven’t checked in lately? There’s still plenty to explore. Don’t miss out!”
Rewards-Focused: “So close! A few more check-ins and you could unlock a reward. Keep going!”
Playful & Light: “Your map adventure’s calling 📍 Have you checked in today?”

Pro Tip:
Send reminders mid-week or mid-campaign to spark re-engagement before momentum dips.

3. Promote Specific Stops

Have a business, sponsor, or local gem you want to highlight? Use targeted messages to drive traffic to specific stops on your map.

Example Message:
"🎨 Today’s Featured Stop: Artsy Alley! Snap a photo, check in, and earn double points today only!"

Why It Works:

Gives a reason to go today
Adds variety and urgency
Helps boost visibility for partners or under-visited spots

4. Boost Participation Before the Weekend

Weekends are prime time for exploration. Use a well-timed Friday message to get participants excited and planning ahead.

Example Message:
"Your weekend adventure awaits! Plan your route and check in at 3 or more locations to earn your exclusive event pin."

Pro Tip:
Use this to remind folks about limited-time prizes, bonus challenges, or closing dates.

5. Send Surprise Incentives

Keep things fresh and exciting with unexpected bonus challenges or rewards. These surprise moments help reignite interest and reward active participants.

Example Message:
"💥 Flash Challenge! Visit any coffee shop on the map in the next 48 hours and you'll be entered to win a $25 gift card."

Ideas to Try:

Limited-time bonus points
Extra rewards for specific check-ins
Social share contests tied to locations

6. Announce Leaderboard Updates or Milestones

If your passport has a competitive element, share updates and build excitement. Highlight progress and friendly competition to keep people motivated.

Example Message:
"🔥 The leaderboard just updated! Are you in the top 10? One week left to claim the crown."

Bonus Tip:
Even if there’s no official prize, a little healthy competition can go a long way.

7. Highlight a Sponsor

Give your sponsors a moment in the spotlight with a message that thanks them, highlights their location, or promotes a special offer.

Example Message:
"🎉 Sponsor Spotlight: Stop by Sweet Bean Bakery and enjoy a free cookie, courtesy of LocalFirst Credit Union!"

Why It Matters:

Adds value for your sponsors
Drives foot traffic to key partners
Makes participants feel like they’re part of something supported by the community

8. Help People Cross the Finish Line

As your event winds down, reach out to participants who are this close to finishing. A personalized message can turn a near-complete into a completed challenge.

Example Message:
"Almost there! You've checked in at 7 out of 10 stops. Just 3 more to go. You've got this!"

9. Promote Your Prize Pickup or Redemption Process

Don’t leave people guessing about how to get their hard-earned rewards. Use messaging to clearly explain the when, where, and how of prize collection.

Example Message:
"🎁 Finished your passport? Pick up your prize at City Hall this week between 9 AM and 5 PM. Just show your completed map at the info desk!"

Tips:

Include location, hours, and deadline
Share a link to more details if needed
Remind them what they’re earning, it builds excitement!

10. Say Thanks & Share What’s Next

Wrap up your event with a warm thank-you and give participants a reason to stay engaged by teasing your next campaign or map.

Example Message:‍

"Thanks for exploring with us! 🌟 You helped log over 3,200 check-ins and supported dozens of local businesses. Stay tuned — our Fall Foodie Passport launches next month!"

Bonus Ideas:

Include a survey link to collect feedback
Highlight key impact stats or photos
Offer early access or VIP info for your next event

Why Messaging Matters

The best passport experiences aren’t just about the map, they’re about meaningful connections, timely nudges, and building momentum. With Proxi’s direct messaging tool, you can guide participants through the experience, keep energy high, and drive real-world results (like check-ins, foot traffic, and community love).

And the best part? No extra email platform needed. You’re reaching people exactly where they’re already engaging, your map.