Corporate Support

The Power of Partnerships

Como Friends’ corporate partners build brand awareness at Minnesota’s most iconic destination, while benefiting our community of nearly two million annual visitors.

OUR VALUE

How We Work with Corporate Partners

We’re pleased to partner with businesses that share our commitment to conservation and cultural access. Together, we create opportunities that bring people together for the benefit of Como Park Zoo & Conservatory.

37,000

Engaged readers of Como Friends’ digital and print publications

229,700

Combined followers on Como Friends’ and Como Park Zoo & Conservatory’s social media platforms

1.8 million

Children and adults visit Como every year, the largest audience for any cultural institution in the state

Xcel Energy

Blaze Credit Union

Travelers

CORPORATE PARTNER BENEFITS

Connect to Como Park Zoo & Conservatory’s Community

Connect to Como’s Community

Associate your brand or business with one of Minnesota’s most iconic and beloved destinations

Engage new audiences through on-campus events and promotions

Build brand awareness with nearly two million annual visitors, the largest audience for any cultural institution in the state

Support equity and inclusion at Como, where 4 in 10 visitors depend on free admission
Partnership with Blaze Credit Union

In May 2022, Blaze Credit Union became the title sponsor of the new SPIRE Sparky Show, now Blaze Sparky Show, the splashy new conservation education program in the heart of Como Harbor.

“This partnership is very special to Blaze. I, along with many Minnesotans, have wonderful memories visiting Como Park Zoo & Conservatory as a youngster and now take my grandchildren there. I know people of all ages enjoy this regional treasure and will for many years to come. In Blaze’s mission to improve lives and give back, we are grateful to partner with this wonderful organization.”

—Dan Stoltz, Blaze Credit Union President/CEO
Partnership with Xcel Energy

Since 2011, Xcel Energy has partnered with Como Friends to educate and engage with Como Park Zoo & Conservatory visitors on the importance of conservation and living more sustainably in our homes and communities. Xcel Energy also partnered with Como Friends to create an educational video, seen by millions of visitors to Polar Bear Odyssey, highlighting how simple changes in our at-home energy consumption can help to protect our planet, polar bears and other wild animals that live here.

“Como is a place where visitors from all walks of life come together, which makes it an ideal destination for reaching a broad cross-section of our community with sustainable tips about energy-saving strategies, news about Xcel Energy’s commitment to renewable energy options, and programs designed to help families in need manage their energy bills. As a corporation that truly cares about improving the environment, our partnership with Como Friends helps us to amplify that mission by reaching an audience of nearly two million annual visitors at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory.”

—John Marshall, RVP Community Relations & Foundation (MN, ND & SD), Xcel Energy