Benton Economic Partnership, Inc. Launches BEP EDGE Circle

Business owners and community leaders across Benton County are invited to join the EDGE Circle, an exclusive network dedicated to advancing economic development in the county. EDGE stands for Empowering Development, Growth, and Excellence, reflecting the commitment of its members to bring new opportunities to Benton County.  

“We are looking for people who want to be visionaries for Benton County and identify what the community needs to thrive,” says Amanda Othoudt, Executive Director for Benton Economic Partnership, Inc. “This can guide our efforts and ensure we represent the county's best interests.”  

There are multiple benefits to joining the EDGE Circle. Keep reading to learn about this program and how to participate. 

EDGE Circle Members Receive Business Recognition

Joining the EDGE Circle is a great way to promote your business across Benton County and beyond. Members will receive prominent recognition on the Benton Economic Partnership, Inc. website, as well as mentions on its social media channels. EDGE Circle members will also be recognized during the organization’s signature events. These include:

• Taste of Benton County: Our premier celebration and annual fundraiser.
• Annual Speed Networking Event: Fast-paced, high-value professional connections.
• Quarterly Membership Meetings: Direct engagement with key decision-makers.
• Annual Meeting & Celebration: Honoring achievements and launching what’s next.

Becoming a member of the EDGE Circle provides your organization with at least seven opportunities throughout the year to be featured in front of local community leaders, business owners, and influencers. If you are looking to grow your customer base in the county, the EDGE Circle could be the opportunity you have been waiting for. 

Have a Voice in Economic Development Initiatives 

Joining the EDGE Circle also enables your organization to connect with development opportunities in Benton County. You can learn about the projects Benton Economic Partnership, Inc. is working on and understand how various aspects of economic development lead to business growth.  

“Economic development is a long-term game, and projects we have worked on for years will soon come to fruition,” says Othoudt  “If the community continues to support economic development, more opportunities, companies, and residents will move to the county.”

This is also an opportunity to see firsthand the different aspects of economic development. Benton Economic Partnership, Inc. does more than business recruitment. It also supports existing companies, works to increase housing inventory, and forms partnerships with local schools to create talent pipelines.

EDGE Circle members can also get involved in the organization's activities by attending meetings throughout the year and by applying to serve as board members.

“We always encourage people to come to our meetings and be a part of what we do,” says Vizenor. “New voices give us fresh perspectives on what the area could benefit from.”

Join the EDGE Circle At a Level That Works for You 

Every business is unique and can invest in Benton County at a level that meets its needs. The EDGE program has three tiers to accommodate different supporters. Here are the options you can choose from and the benefits that come with them.  

Development Sponsor – $6,000

• Recognition at Taste of Benton County
• Logo on meeting programs and the BEP website
• 2 complimentary event tickets
• Featured in press releases, social media, and e-news
• Opportunity to contribute a thought-leadership article
• Access to exclusive EDGE Circle receptions
• Tax-deductible contribution

Growth Sponsor – $8,000

• Enhanced logo placement at all major events
• 4 complimentary event tickets
• Opportunity to introduce a speaker or panel
• Spotlight feature in BEP’s annual report
• Invitation to leadership roundtables
• Priority communications and special recognition at the Annual Meeting
• Tax-deductible contribution

Excellence Sponsor – $10,000

• Premier logo placement and stage recognition at events
• Exclusive naming rights for one BEP event
• 8 VIP event tickets and reserved seating
• Opportunity for a featured address at a signature event
• Recognition in local media
• Designation as a Founding EDGE Circle Member
• Tax-deductible contribution

Organizations that are current dues-paying members of Benton Economic Partnership, Inc. can deduct the dues they have already paid for the year from their EDGE Circle membership. This program creates additional tier options beyond the existing ones. EDGE Circle members can also save through our referral program. 

Help Shape the Future of Benton County

The team at Benton Economic Partnership, Inc. works tirelessly to bring new opportunities to the county. From workforce development to business attraction and retention, our efforts bring new jobs, amenities, and options for residents. Both community members and business leaders stand to benefit from increased economic growth, whether they want more housing options or new restaurants.

You can invest in Benton County and shape its future development. Join the EDGE Circle today and help the region grow. New opportunities to promote your business and network with customers await. Contact us today to join.