Charity Ticket Program

A fundraising partnership for Northern Michigan nonprofits.

Representatives from 14 nonprofit organizations joined Traverse City Horse Shows for the season-ending Charity Ticket Program check presentation, celebrating the total funds raised in 2025. Photo © Sam Garvin / Traverse City Horse Shows

Where Attendance Becomes Impact

When your mission deserves a bigger stage. The Charity Ticket Program is designed as a community-based fundraising partnership for Northern Michigan nonprofit organizations seeking a high-visibility, event-driven revenue opportunity.

Traverse City Horse Shows donates 100% of general admission ticket revenue from select ticketed events to Northern Michigan nonprofit organizations. Since launching in 2022, the program has generated more than $175,000 in direct support for local causes.

Each selected partner receives a custom ticket link, coordinated promotion, and full general admission ticket revenue from its featured week. Twelve to fifteen organizations are selected each season.

How the Program Works

One hundred percent of general admission ticket revenue from your assigned week’s ticketed event(s) is donated directly to your organization. Funds raised vary based on attendance and promotional engagement. Premium hospitality tickets, including The Overlook and VIP Club, are excluded.

Funds are distributed following the conclusion of the season in September. Representatives from each participating nonprofit are invited to attend a closing-day recognition ceremony and networking event, where total funds raised are celebrated alongside fellow charity partners.

Program Benefits

Selected partners receive both financial support and meaningful on-site visibility. For their featured week, selected nonprofits receive:

  • A dedicated on-site space to engage guests and showcase their mission

  • PA recognition and an in-ring photo opportunity

  • VIP seating for up to six guests 

  • A custom ticket link and marketing materials for promotion

Partnership Expectations

This program works best when both organizations actively promote the partnership.  Participating nonprofits are asked to:

  • Promote ticket sales to their network

  • Share their custom ticket link

  • Encourage community attendance during their featured week

  • Represent their organization on site during the event

2026 Application & Selection Process

Traverse City Horse Shows invites Northern Michigan nonprofit organizations to express interest in participating in the 2026 Charity Ticket Program. Selected partners receive 100% of general admission ticket revenue from their assigned week’s ticketed event(s), along with coordinated visibility before and during the event. 

Timeline

  • Applications open: Ongoing

  • Submission deadline for 2026: February 28, 2026

  • 12–15 nonprofit organizations selected for the 2026 season

  • Organizations notified by mid-to-late March

To be considered, please complete the form below or email the requested information to events@traversecityhorseshows.com with the subject line: Charity Ticket Program Interest.

Questions about the program may also be directed to the above address. Submitting an application does not guarantee selection. The program supports nonprofit organizations serving Grand Traverse County, Leelanau County, Benzie County, and the broader Northern Michigan region.

If your organization is ready to mobilize supporters and amplify your mission, we invite you to apply below.

Apply for the 2026 Charity Ticket Program

Celebrating Community Impact

Each season, Traverse City Horse Shows partners with nonprofit organizations across Northern Michigan to generate meaningful financial support and expand community awareness. The impact is measured not only in dollars raised, but in connections formed between missions and new audiences.

We are proud to recognize the 2025 Charity Ticket Program participants below and the collective impact achieved through this partnership. 

2025 Charity Ticket Program Partners

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Charity Ticket Program raise money for nonprofits?

Selected organizations receive 100% of general admission ticket revenue from their assigned week’s ticketed event.

Who is eligible to apply?

Nonprofit organizations serving Grand Traverse County, Leelanau County, Benzie County, and the broader Northern Michigan region are eligible to apply. The program is designed for community-based nonprofits that can actively promote ticket sales and engage supporters during their featured week.

How many nonprofits are selected each year?

Between 12 and 15 Northern Michigan nonprofit organizations are selected annually.

Are hospitality tickets included in the donation?

No. Premium hospitality tickets, including The Overlook and VIP Club, are excluded.

When are funds distributed?

Funds are distributed after the conclusion of the season in September.