Whether an ad in eNews or a top-level sponsorship, we offer a variety of opportunities that fit all types and sizes of businesses.
Your investment not only helps advance your business, but supports our organization’s many facets of work, from hosting high-profile events to offering critical resources, information, and more.
A ribbon cutting is a ceremony marking the official opening of a new site, new leadership, recently remodeled or renovated business, or anniversary milestone. Ribbon cuttings can either serve as a grand opening on a business’s first day of operation, or it can be weeks after a business’s soft opening.
A business qualifies for a ribbon cutting with the Greater Mankato Growth Ambassadors if it has:
Or if it is celebrating:
A groundbreaking is a traditional ceremony to mark the first day of construction or renovation.
Visit from the Greater Mankato Ambassadors (committee of volunteers from over 40 local businesses)
Promotional post on Greater Mankato Growth social media
Feature in Minnesota Valley Business Magazine
Gold shovels (upon request)
Inviting local officials to your groundbreaking (upon request)
You qualify for a Groundbreaking with the Greater Mankato Growth Ambassadors if your business is planning to break ground on a new building, start expansion, or renovation.
$250 – Engaged Members
$350 – Basic Members
* Complimentary for Silver and higher investors, once a year.
$50 – Engaged Members
$150 – Basic Members
* Complimentary for Copper and higher investors, once a year.
Free to GMG members and non-members.
To learn more about the Premium and Enhanced Ambassador visits, download a printable flyer.
Promote your business and special offers in the Member-2-Member section of our eNews, emailed every Tuesday to approximately 2,200 member business representatives. Our eNews average open rate is 46% which is higher than the industry average.
eNews Ad: $95
eNews Ad Special Offer:
Political advertisements, talent, membership, fundraising, or sponsorship solicitation are not allowed. GMG reserves the right to refuse any submissions.
To learn more, please reach out to Ines Wingert.
Sign up for a weekly Member Monday feature to get exposed to over 8,800 followers of the GMG Facebook page. Provide a short blurb about your business and we’ll share it along with a Member Monday graphic. The same week, we will share a post of your choice from your business’s Facebook page.
One Facebook Feature: $50
Political advertisements, talent, membership, fundraising, or sponsorship solicitation are not allowed. Greater Mankato Growth reserves the right to refuse any submissions.
To learn more, please reach out to Ines Wingert.
New in 2026! LinkedIn feature includes a member-provided, short blurb about your business or organization and one share of a post of your choice from your business’s LinkedIn profile. This is a great opportunity to get your content in front of more than 4,200 followers of the GMG LinkedIn profile.
One LinkedIn Feature: $100
Political advertisements, talent, membership, fundraising, or sponsorship solicitation are not allowed. Greater Mankato Growth reserves the right to refuse any submissions.
To learn more, please reach out to Ines Wingert.
A member mailing list includes an up-to-date list of mailing addresses (not emails) of all current member businesses or representatives (over 900 individuals). Good for one use only; prior approval of mailers is required. Mailers may include, but are not limited to, critical business or organization info, current events, hot marketplace topics. Political advertisements, talent, membership, fundraising, or sponsorship solicitation are not allowed. GMG reserves the right to refuse any submissions.
Member Mailing List: $150
To learn more, please reach out to Ines Wingert.
Greater Mankato Growth members receive a 10% discount for advertising in the annual Guide to Visiting and Living in Greater Mankato, displayed throughout the state, at Minnesota travel information centers, MSP airport, Mall of America, high-traffic kiosks, events, hotels, and universities, as well as distributed to visitors and relocating residents. To learn more and to sign up, please email The Mankato Free Press.
Deadline: November 4, 2025.
The Advocacy Forum Series brings together compelling speakers and business leaders for a discussion of timely and relevant political and policy issues. Sponsoring this event series puts your business in front of regional business leaders and elected officials. Projected attendance is 50+ per forum.
Series Sponsorship: $1,500
To learn more, please reach out to Andy Wilke.
Greater Mankato at the Capitol is an annual event for Greater Mankato Growth member business representatives. It offers the opportunity to interact directly with legislative leaders and key administration personnel on issues that matter the most to GMG members. The event includes a coach bus trip to the Minnesota State Capitol and business exposure to attendees, as well as legislators.
Presenting Sponsor: $1,500
To learn more, please reach out to Andy Wilke.
The I-90 party, the premier event of the legislative session, is a celebration of Greater Mankato and southern Minnesota. Engage with the most influential members of the legislature: you don’t want to miss the opportunity to connect with more than 100 lawmakers who attend this marquee event at St. Paul’s CHS Field. Legislative staff, administration members, government relations specialists, and professional staff from every industry also attend. Greater Mankato Growth and GreenSeam are proud to continue the 20-year tradition of the I-90 party, giving Greater Mankato and everyone in the GreenSeam unparalleled visibility at the Capitol. Projected attendance: 300+.
The event is typically held in early May.
Presenting Sponsorship: $2,000
Event Sponsorship: $500
(Or in-kind contribution of equal value)
To learn more, please reach out to Andy Wilke.
Take advantage of the opportunity to share your business news on the Member News page on our website at no extra cost. By sharing business news stories, we lift up the visibility and awareness of a diverse scope of sectors and inform the public of the successes and advancements in our region. Business news may include, but are not limited to, press releases, company-wide news, and employee recognition.
Political advertisements, talent, membership, fundraising, or sponsorship solicitation are not allowed. GMG reserves the right to refuse any submissions.
Email us your member news submissions.
If you have any questions, please email Ines Wingert.
Contribute as an author on the Greater Mankato Growth’s blog, which receives about 4,300 page views a month. Elaborate on current events or hot marketplace topics, send us your important messages for the local business community, and share your expertise for all to see.
Political advertisements, talent, membership, fundraising, or sponsorship solicitation are not allowed. GMG reserves the right to refuse any submissions.
Email us your member guest blog content.
If you have any questions, please email Ines Wingert.
Share your electronic coupons and offers with a variety of audiences at no extra cost: just log into the member portal and add your offerings to our website.
The Greater Mankato Ambassadors are a dynamic group of business professionals and community leaders serving as representatives of Greater Mankato Growth, the local chamber of commerce. They welcome new GMG members, encourage member involvement, networking, and retention, actively participate in ribbon cuttings and groundbreakings, and celebrate milestones with businesses and organizations.
Ambassador Sponsorship: $2,000
To learn more, please reach out to Andy Wilke.
Greater Mankato Growth members, food, beverages, and an informal atmosphere: the perfect formula for making long-lasting business connections. Business After Hours are hosted by a different member business each month. Monthly hosts provide hors d’oeuvres, refreshments, and entertainment, if desired. Projected monthly attendance: 200.
Presenting Sponsorship: $5,000
Monthly Host: $1,500
Registration closes at the end of the business day on November 3, 2025.
To learn more, please reach out to Andy Wilke.
The Chamber Lunch Series (bi-monthly; member-only) is an exclusive opportunity for Greater Mankato Growth members to network, do business, and hear from industry experts on topics that are relevant to our business community. These events also highlight new GMG member businesses and showcase the work of local nonprofits during the “New Member Minute” or “Nonprofit Spotlight.” Expected attendance: 100+
Series Sponsorship: $2,500*
* Two available
Session Sponsorship: $500
To learn more, please reach out to Andy Wilke.
Coffee & Connections (bi-monthly; member-exclusive) is designed to kick off the morning with meaningful connections. This new, before-hours networking series is hosted at a local coffee shop, offering a relaxed, informal setting for Greater Mankato Growth members to connect with fellow professionals. With a year-round marketing campaign and an expected attendance of 50+ per event. Coffee & Connections offers an excellent opportunity to promote your business.
Series Sponsorship: $2,500
Event Sponsorship: $500
To learn more, please reach out to Andy Wilke.
The Annual Meeting brings together the business community as Greater Mankato Growth, Inc. shares the previous year’s accomplishments and celebrates our vision for the future. At this event, Greater Mankato Growth, Visit Mankato, City Center Partnership, and GreenSeam recognize individuals and organizations who have demonstrated exceptional leadership through service and contributed to the betterment of our community. Expected attendance is 400, including area business leaders, dignitaries, and members of Greater Mankato Growth, Inc. boards of directors.
Presenting Sponsorship: $3,000
Lunch Sponsorship: $1,500
Event Sponsorship: $1,000
Table of 8: $650
Individual Ticket: $65
To learn more, please reach out to Liz Sharp.
This new, bi-monthly, member-exclusive series showcases the expertise of Greater Mankato Growth member businesses through engaging presentations on topics they know best. These 90-minute workshops are led by GMG members and designed to strengthen the core functions of running a business. They help small business owners, managers, and key staff build practical skills, explore new ideas, and connect with peers. Sponsorship offers excellent visibility and engagement with professional growth and innovation.
SOLD – Series Sponsorship: $1,500
To learn more, please reach out to Andy Wilke.
Greater Mankato on the Green is an annual fundraiser golf tournament that provides a first-class opportunity for GMG members to network and socialize with other golfers, sponsors, and spectators while enjoying 18 holes of golf.
Presenting Sponsorship: $3,500
(2-year commitment at $3,500/year)
Flag Sponsorship: $2,000
(2-year commitment at $2,000/year)
Golf Cart Sponsorship: $2,000
(2-year commitment at $2.000/year)
Beverage Cart Sponsorship: $2,000
(2-year commitment at $2,000/year)
After Golf Social Sponsorship: $2,000
(2-year commitment at $2,000/year)
Post-tournament social, located indoors and on Clubhouse deck and seating area, near the 18th green. Sponsorship includes a live musician on the patio after the tournament.
Snack Cart Sponsorship: $1,500
R&R Station Sponsorship: $1,000
Box Lunch Sponsorship: $500
Scorecard Sponsorship: $500
Leaderboard and bar Sponsorship: $500
Putting Green Sponsorship: $500
Hole Sponsorship: $400
One Team of Four Golfers: $840
Individual Golfer: $210
Additional Spectator Passes: $40 ($20 for sponsors)
All spectators granted entry at 1 pm. Dinner included with the pass.
Each sponsor receives first right of refusal for the next year’s tournament.
To take advantage of these opportunities, follow this link. To learn more, please reach out to Liz Sharp.
The Member Showcase Online Auction presents a wonderful opportunity for all Greater Mankato Growth members to promote their products or services while supporting the work of our organization. Proceeds from the Auction support the GMG Opportunity Fund, which allows small businesses and community nonprofit organizations to participate in GMG programs at a reduced cost. Previously part of our golf tournament, the Auction was expanded to include more members and a larger audience of bidders. The Auction will take place mid June.
Participation Rules:
To learn more, please reach out to Liz Sharp or Tanner Meredith.
The Greater Mankato Business Awards & Hall of Fame is a premier business event and a time when Greater Mankato Growth, Visit Mankato, City Center Partnership, and GreenSeam honor outstanding businesses, professionals, and organizations within the Greater Mankato community. Event sponsors support the growth of area businesses and receive exposure to more than 400 event attendees and thousands more via extensive pre and post-event promotion.
Presenting Sponsorship: $3,500
(2-year commitment at $3,500/year)
Dinner Sponsorship: $2,000
Pre-Event Social & Signature Drink Sponsorship: $1,500
Event Sponsorship: $1,500
After Party Social Sponsorship: $1,500
Video Sponsorship: $3,000 in-kind value for video production
Table Sponsorship: $850/members or $950/non-members
Single ticket to the event:
$85/members
$95/non-members
To learn more, please reach out to Liz Sharp.
Put your business in front of area’s current and emerging leaders by sponsoring Greater Mankato Leadership Institute, which has been offering a comprehensive leadership training with a personal, professional, and community focus for over 40 years.
Program Sponsorship: $1,500
To learn more, please reach out to Jake Rinehart.
Designed primarily for graduates of Greater Mankato Leadership Institute, this program delivers powerful leadership tools, practical strategies, and dynamic discussions, as well as a chance to build multiple new cross-industry relationships and community connections.
Program Sponsorship: $1,000
To learn more, please reach out to Shannon Gullickson.
This program provides networking opportunities to professionals age 21-40 through a series of social, professional development, and community engagement events. Sponsoring Young Professionals put your business in front of 180 emerging community leaders, as well as thousands of individuals interested in developing, retaining, and connecting talent in our community.
Program Sponsorship: $1,500
Event Sponsorship: $400/event or equivalent in food, beverages, or entertainment for 45 – 75 people
YP Annual Meeting Sponsorship: $600 or equivalent in food, beverages, or space for 70-100 people
Holiday Party Sponsorship: $600 or equivalent in food, beverages, or space for 70-100 people
To learn more, please reach out to Jake Rinehart.
This event is designed for a diverse audience committed to strengthening the regional workforce, including HR professionals, business leaders, employers, and community stakeholders focused on recruitment, retention, workplace culture, and talent development.
Presenting Sponsorship: $2,000
Workforce Champion: $1,000
Event Sponsorship: $500
Supporting Sponsorship: $250
To learn more, please reach out to Tyler Kuch.
Greater Mankato Growth and GreenSeam have partnered to launch a new program for HR professionals and small business owners across the region. HR Connect offers curated events, expert-led sessions, and networking opportunities designed to support professional development, share best practices, strengthen regional connections, and provide sponsor visibility with a targeted, engaged professional audience. This is a year-round program, providing one session a month.
Presenting Sponsorship: $2,000
Event Sponsorship: $250/event (or equivalent in food, beverages, or entertainment for 30-60 people)
To learn more, please reach out to Jake Rinehart.
Put your business in front of a diverse audience at this family-friendly music series featuring local food and live music. Engage with over 700 attendees every week in the City Center, including business professionals, families, and area residents.
Presenting Sponsorship: $3,000
(2-year commitment at $3,000/year)
Event Sponsorship: $1,000/members or $1,600/non-members
Supporting Sponsorship: $500/members or $800/non-members
Food Vendor (Member-Exclusive): $400
General Booth: $350/member or $550 non/member
To learn more, please reach out to Liz Sharp.
Minnesota Senior Games offers competition in more than 15 sports for individuals 50+ years of age. Visit Mankato is proud to host the Minnesota Senior Games in August of 2026. In 2022, Minnesota Senior Games were held in Mankato and brought 530 participants from across the state of Minnesota and 24 participants from other states.
Sponsor Benefits Based on Level:
To take advantage of these sponsorships and to learn more, please reach out to Joy Leafblad.
Let It Glow, Kato! helps bring holiday spirit to downtown. Businesses can apply for funds to assist in purchasing lights and other holiday decorations and be part of the community voting for their favorite window display. The contest takes place each year in December.
Event Sponsorship: $500
To learn more, please reach out to Joy Leafblad.
Small Business Saturday event, now with a fresh name, celebrates the unique charm and community spirit that defines our Downtown districts. Event date: Saturday, November 29, 2025.
Presenting Sponsorship: $1,500
Supporting Sponsorship: $500
To learn more, please reach out to Joy Leafblad.
The Mankato Marathon tradition started in 2010 with an amazing 2,200 runners. The ten-year anniversary was celebrated with 4,100 runners and more than 8,000 spectators in 2019.
In 2024, runners from 36 states participated in the Mankato Marathon, with 75% of them residing in Minnesota. There were more women (58%) than men in the races and the average age of runners was 30-49.
The Mankato Marathon offers a la carte sponsorship options, Expo booth options, and volunteers opportunities for the weekend.
Sponsor Benefits, Based on Level:
To find out how your business can get involved or to learn more about the Mankato Marathon, email Joy Leafblad.
Celebration of Ag is an annual event that celebrates the success of agriculture and GreenSeam’s accomplishments of the year, all while offering a networking opportunity with key ag leaders in an informal atmosphere. Your sponsorship puts your business in front of leaders in the GreenSeam, as well as the general public, and supports GreenSeam’s mission to elevate our region as the world-class food and agribusiness epicenter.
Signature Sponsorship: $3,500
Food and Beverage Sponsorship: $1,500
Live Music Sponsorship: $1,500
Program/Table Sponsorship: $750
Pathway Sponsorship: $500
Complimentary Booth Setup for GreenSeam Investors:
To take advantage of these opportunities, please reach out to Liz Sharp.
Rural forum is GreenSeam’s premier annual reception and dinner event connecting public leaders and a wide range of attendees from the agricultural sector, such as producers, manufacturers, educators, researchers, and more. Your sponsorship puts your business in front of leaders in the GreenSeam and other attendees, and supports GreenSeam’s mission to elevate our region as the world-class food and agribusiness epicenter.
Presenting Sponsorship: $6,000
Dinner Sponsorship: $4,000
Reception Sponsorship: $3,500
Student Sponsorship: $2,000
Name Badge/Lanyard Sponsorship: $1,500
Cocktail Sponsorship: $1,500
Program Sponsorship: $1,000
Table Sponsorship: $600
Door Prize Sponsorship: $500*
* Must provide door prize (value $500+)
To take advantage of these opportunities, please reach out to Liz Sharp.
As a member of Greater Mankato Growth, you are joining nearly 1,000 other businesses to accomplish what no business could ever do alone.
Whether you are a small business owner, representative of a large firm, or entrepreneur starting your own company, we offer targeted benefits, valuable resources, and unparalleled support that will help you grow your business. Our regional chamber represents Mankato, North Mankato, and surrounding areas.
To register for marketing opportunities, login to your membership portal account.
