Local business sponsors sought for Taste of Carbondale at SIU

April 23, 2024

Local business sponsors sought for Taste of Carbondale at SIU

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill. — Southern Illinois University Carbondale and the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce are partnering to produce a special event during Saluki Startup, the giant campus welcome festival held each August for new and returning students.

Taste of Carbondale is set for Aug. 14, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at SIU’s Student Services Building pavilion, and organizers are currently seeking local businesses as sponsors.

Salukis, with their families and supporters, will be offered delicious and diverse samples from local food and beverage establishments. All types of local businesses are invited to be sponsors, however, and in exchange enjoy the opportunity to engage with attendees.

“Taste of Carbondale is on new student move-in day, which kick-starts Saluki Startup, which serves as an extension of orientation and engagement opportunities for new Salukis so they can become better acclimated to campus as well as make new friendships and experience more of SIU before the start of classes,” said Jennifer Phillips, director of New Student Programs.

Sponsorship package rates begin at $500. The funds will help cover costs of providing the food samples. In addition to getting acquainted with Salukis, sponsors will have their company logos featured on the Taste of Carbondale website and may have other promotional opportunities.

To become a Taste of Carbondale sponsor, contact William Lo at the Chamber of Commerce at 618-549-2146 or wlo@carbondalechamber.com no later than May 31.