Sponsorship Program
For more than 50 years, TriMet has provided bus, light rail and commuter rail service in the Portland, Oregon, region. Our transportation options connect people with their community while easing traffic congestion and reducing air pollution — making our region a better place to live.
TriMet is an active partner supporting the community. This support has come in many forms, especially in the distribution of resources through the sponsorship of events and activities. We are an integral part of the communities where we operate, and we are committed to playing an active role in supporting and enhancing the businesses and communities in our region. The Sponsorship Program is one way we work to achieve that goal.
Who is eligible?
TriMet gives sponsorship funds to nonprofit organizations whose work aligns with TriMet's Vision, Mission, Values, and/or Business Plan Goals.
TriMet sponsorship funds cannot be used to support political campaigns/committees or lobbying groups.
Like most public agencies, TriMet receives more sponsorship requests than can be fulfilled and prioritizes funding organizations and activities that support social equity, increasing access to transportation options, and support the broader community. Special consideration will be given to organizations and activities led by culturally-specific community-based organizations and historically underserved communities.
In order to spread limited sponsorship dollars across many deserving organizations, TriMet tries to sponsor organizations only once per fiscal year (July to June). Maximum sponsorship awards are $5,000 with the majority awarded within the range of $500–$1,000.
Eligibility criteria
- Organizations should provide support to businesses and residents in Clackamas, Washington and/or Multnomah County.
- Organizations and activities must support TriMet’s Vision, Mission, Values and/or Business Plan Goals.
- Organizations must be able to provide documentation of your tax-exempt status.
Considerations
- Provides two-way engagement and learning between TriMet and the community.
- Reflects TriMet’s commitment to enhancing the community (e.g. education programs, projects/programs for neighborhoods adjacent to TriMet operations).
- Offers the opportunity for TriMet to contribute knowledge and experience to community activities.
What types of events and activities does TriMet sponsor?
Funds are used to support community events and activities that benefit the public, engage a diversity of residents and businesses, address inequities that impact our communities, and inspire inclusive and innovative solutions to the challenges of making our region a great place for everyone.
What acknowledgement does TriMet expect for sponsorship support?
The extent of acknowledgement should be commensurate with the level of the sponsorship. TriMet may negotiate in consideration of the sponsorship level and benefits offered.
Review process
Organizations may submit their sponsorship application up to 12 months in advance of the start date of their event, but no later than 30 days before the start date of their event.
TriMet’s cross-departmental committee reviews sponsorship applications on a monthly basis.
How to apply
Please complete the Event Sponsorship Request Form. We’ll respond to you within 10 business days. Be sure to attach any additional sponsorship materials in the form.
If you need expedited review of your request, please send an email to sponsorships@trimet.org in addition to submitting your sponsorship request and let us know. We’ll try to accommodate when possible.
