While largely a recreational event, Harvest Days does have significant ties to businesses, mainly in sponsorship. Fred Meyer, for instance, is the presenting and parade sponsor of the event, and there are numerous other businesses, such as Sterling Bank and Wilco, that act as main stage sponsors and community sponsors. Interest in the event from a local business standpoint has increased over the years, said Schulstad, and the Chamber of Commerce has recognized that.
One business new to the sponsorship scene at Harvest Days is Wrench Works, an auto repair shop in Brush Prairie sponsoring the Car Cruise. Michael Woods, an automotive technician at Wrench Works, said the event represents a good opportunity to get their young business some valuable exposure.
“We’re a new shop to the area and [Harvest Days] gives us a chance to advertise and let people know that we’re here and that we care about the community,” he said. “I imagine we will continue to sponsor and participate in it [in the future].”In the end, Schulstad said Harvest Days is in many ways about business development as much as it is community development.
“If you’re a sponsor, it’s a great way to network,” Schulstad said. “It’s a great way to get your name out there. It shows businesses that care about the community and want to give back. It’s recognized and appreciated in Battle Ground, more so than in most communities.”
Schulstad, who has been in her current position at the chamber since January, understands the importance of the fair in terms of both commercial and community development factors, and believes the two concepts have a strong connection in this case.
“Local business owners originally started Harvest Days in 1960,” said Schulstad. “It’s always been a local business event.”
Harvest Days – July 19-21
Battle Ground Fairgrounds Park,
912 East Main St.
www.battlegroundchamber.org/pages/HARVESTDAYS
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