Taste of Benton County Vendor Applications Are Now Open!

Benton Economic Partnership, Inc. is excited to bring a brand new event to the community! Taste of Benton County is a fundraiser designed to showcase and promote businesses within the region. The first annual event will be held on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at the Sauk Rapids Sports Area East (1410 3rd Ave S). Vendor applications are now open for food and beverage businesses interested in participating.

“We expect between 300 to 500 attendees eager to celebrate the Benton County culinary scene,” says Amanda Othoudt, Executive Director of Benton Economic Partnership, Inc. “Not only is this a valuable fundraising opportunity for our organization, but it’s a fun way to promote local businesses and introduce residents to new spots.”

Applications are open to food and beverage vendors, dessert and bakery teams, and caterers. There is space for up to 30 vendors to participate.

Download the Vendor Packet

Vendors Will Provide Tastings to Attendees 

At Taste of Benton County, attendees enjoy unlimited tastings from the partnering vendors. The goal is for residents to sample items from each restaurant, bar, or bakery and discover new places they have never been before. This is designed to be an opportunity for local food businesses to get in front of up to 500 new customers and showcase popular items.

Along with the food and beverage vendors, the event will include live music, raffles, and other exciting activities to keep attendees engaged. This is a 21+ event.  
Participating as a Vendor Supports the Community
Not only can vendors enjoy a fun opportunity to promote their businesses, but they can also be part of a larger effort to grow Benton County and give back to the community. Taste of Benton County is a fundraiser for Benton Economic Partnership, Inc., an organization that works to bring new opportunities, businesses, and residents to the region. Investing in economic development can help your food and beverage business grow in the coming years.

On top of that, 5% of the proceeds from Taste of Benton County will be donated to a non-profit that is a member of the organization. Participating as a vendor can help bring people out and increase the amount donated to a local cause. 

Vendor Registration is Free for Members

Restaurants and other food and drink businesses that are members of the Benton Economic Partnership, Inc., can register as vendors for free. Simply complete the two-page application and submit it to Pam Vizenor at pvizenor@bentonpartnership.org. If you are not currently a member, you will need to pay the annual membership fee. Membership costs vary depending on the number of employees you have.

Joining Benton Economic Partnership, Inc. unlocks several opportunities to promote your business, along with resources to grow your organization. The investment in local economic development can pay off in the long run. 

Sign Up Today to Vend at Taste of Benton County!

We can’t wait to see your business at Taste of Benton County and look forward to showcasing your menu and services to residents across the community. Complete your vendor application today to lock in your space. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact our team. We are here to help.

Download the Vendor Packet