Benton Economic Partnership

If you have not signed up to be a vendor for the Taste of Benton County, we have one question… Why Not?

This is your chance to showcase your specialty items, feature your best dishes and drinks, and introduce your business to the community in a fun, exciting setting. Whether you are known for signature appetizers, delicious desserts, handcrafted beverages, or customer favorites, we would love to have you join us.

The Taste of Benton County is a unique community event that brings local businesses together to celebrate what makes our area special. This is not a competition; it is an opportunity to connect, collaborate, and make a difference in the community alongside other great vendors like you. Together, we can create an unforgettable experience for attendees while showcasing the incredible talent and flavors of Benton County and the surrounding area.

If you are interested in being a vendor, we have an exciting announcement. With support from the Joy and Connection Grant from the Initiative Foundation, the first 12 Vendors to sign up will receive a $200.00 stipend. We understand that staffing an event like this may not always fit your budget, and we want to help make participation possible. In addition, we have waived the membership fee for Taste of Benton County vendors who sign up by May 30, 2026.

This is the perfect time to get involved and be part of one of Benton County’s most exciting new events. Please let me know if you have any questions. We would be excited to have you join us! https://rebrand.ly/hikfkw6!

Check out Odam Medical Group next week as they invite you to visit their clinic, meet the staff, and register to win prizes, May 4th-May 9th.

🍴 Taste of Benton County – Vendors Wanted! 🍴

Join us for the first annual Taste of Benton County on July 22, 2026 (5–8 PM) at the Sauk Rapids Sports Arena East!

This 21+ community event will feature unlimited tastings, local food & drinks, music, and fun—all while showcasing the incredible businesses in our region.

✨ Showcase your best dishes, drinks, and specialties
✨ Connect with up to 300–500 attendees
✨ Be part of a community-focused fundraiser

Early Vendor Bonus: First 12 vendors receive a $200 stipend
Membership fees waived if you sign up by May 30, 2026

Spots are limited—don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting new event!

https://www.bentonpartnership.org/news-and-media/taste-of-benton-county

🚜⚡ Community Growth in Action! ⚡🚜

The Benton Economic Partnership, Inc., was proud to work with the Gilman Tractor Pull Club in applying for a grant from East Central Energy.

Thanks to this generous donation and others, the club plans to bring electricity to the pulling area, enabling evening events. This important upgrade will improve electrical access for the PA system and announcer’s booth, enhancing sound quality and overall event operations.

With the ability to host nighttime events, the club can extend event hours, increase attendance, attract more vendors, and create an even more exciting experience for the community.

A huge thank you to East Central Energy for investing in local events and helping strengthen community connections in Benton County!

Several Knife River employees started in entry-level positions and advanced into leadership roles. Read more about this company and how it invests in its employees. https://www.bentonpartnership.org/news-and-media/p/item/66920/knife-river-invests-in-employees-and-communities-in-benton-county