Sky Sox to shine a spotlight on small businesses

A new Sky Sox promotion doesn’t promise small businesses a home run, but it will at least let them put the ball in play.

The local minor league baseball team, in partnership with commercial real estate firm Hoff & Leigh, is offering small businesses a package that includes four tickets to a game, a table in the concourse, a public address announcement and scoreboard recognition, on-air recognition on the radio and the chance to throw out the ceremonial first pitch. The package is worth about $850, said Sky Sox assistant general manager Mike Hobson, but it will be given free to 35 small business owners over the course of the season.

“We’re looking for companies that do positive things in the community,” he said. “We really want companies here in the Springs that need a boost.”

“Small business” can be anything from a plumber to a store owner, Hobson said. There’s no set criteria, but he hopes to find companies that could benefit from a little exposure in these tough economic times.

“Already, we’ve had quite a few applicants,” he said. “Everything from computer networking to lawyers — all kinds of people.”

Hobson plans to accept applications through April 16, the Sky Sox home opener. Business owners can nominate themselves, or people can nominate someone they know. The promotion is only a marketing opportunity, however: Winners won’t be able to actually sell anything at the ball park.

Business owners can apply for the Sky Sox Small Business Spotlight by filling out a form available on the baseball club’s Web site, www.skysox.com.
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