SALT LAKE CITY–America First Credit Union (AFCU) is reporting it and the Utah Jazz have brought back their annual “Small Business Spotlight” contest, which launched in 2022.
“Together, these partners are giving small businesses in Utah the opportunity to compete for a customized single-season sponsorship agreement with the Utah Jazz valued at approximately $200,000,” America First CU said.
The winning business will receive arena signage, logo design assistance, media coverage, and the opportunity to participate in business and marketing strategy meetings with executives from the Utah Jazz and AFCU, the CU added.
‘Integral to Our Community’
“Small businesses are integral to our community and help our state thrive, which is why we want to allow them to make an even bigger impact,” said AFCU President and CEO Thayne Shaffer. “For one small business in Utah, this is an incredible opportunity to reach an audience they might not be able to reach otherwise. We’re thankful for the Utah Jazz for partnering with us to reward innovation and entrepreneurship in Utah.”
According to the credit union, the contest is open to Utah-based for-profit small businesses with an annual revenue of less than $10 million. Participants can enter on AFCU’s website by providing a short profile about why a sponsorship would help their business. Businesses will be evaluated on how well they represent Utah, how much they currently give back to the community, and how this opportunity will help them further execute their business objectives successfully, AFCU said. All entries must be submitted by April 30, 2023.
How it Works
Finalists will pitch their businesses to judges for final selection. The finalists will be invited to a private reception at the Utah Jazz’s home arena in downtown Salt Lake City, where the contest winner will be announced.
In 2022— in its inaugural year — more than 150 small businesses entered the contest. Shea Workman, the founder of Brightbox, ended up taking home the grand prize.
"It was incredible to feel recognition from AFCU and the Utah Jazz," said Workman. "The exposure we got through all of the free advertising was phenomenal. It has opened doors to meaningful relationships and awareness with other businesses and people who want to spread sunshine. I think this sponsorship shows AFCU and the Jazz's dedication to small business in Utah."
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