MHF EVENT SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM
Supporting Events that showcase Mustangs
to inspire adoptions!
Program Overview
MHF Members can apply - Need to join?
Program Description
The Mustang Heritage Foundation’s Event Sponsorship Program supports horse shows that celebrate the versatility, athleticism, and partnership of America’s Mustangs. By sponsoring Mustang classes and awards, the Foundation seeks to increase public awareness, support new adopters in their journey, and honor the accomplishments of existing Mustang owners. Our mission is to make Mustangs more visible in the mainstream equine community, inspire confidence in potential adopters, and honor the progress of Mustangs and their owners.
Program Goals
1. Increase Adoption Interest – Encourage more people to consider adopting a Mustang by showcasing their talents in competitive and community settings. 2. Support New Adopters – Provide opportunities for newly adopted or recently started Mustangs to gain experience in a supportive environment. 3. Celebrate Established Mustang Partnerships – Recognize existing Mustang owners who demonstrate the long-term value and versatility of these horses. 4. Expand Mustang Visibility – Integrate Mustangs into a variety of show formats, from local open shows to rodeos, expo events, and more.
Eligible Events
Horse shows or competitions that: • Offer Mustang-specific classes or divisions (varied experience levels accepted) • Provide special awards for Mustangs in open classes • Host Mustang exhibition classes or demonstrations • Offer Mustang education in creative ways
Funding & Sponsorship Guidelines
• Award Range: $250 – $3,000 per event (scaled to size, reach, and impact) • Sponsorship May Cover: Mustang awards, class fees, promotional materials, facility costs, judges/clinicians, event marketing • Sponsorship Will Not Cover: General show operating expenses, unrelated classes/awards, prize money without Mustang connection
Scaling Support for New Adopters
• Sponsorship preference will be given to shows that include “Green Mustang” type classes (for horses in their first 2 years post-adoption or first year in training). • Shows are encouraged to include tiered awards, for example something similar to: o Rising Star Mustang Award – for newly adopted horses o Ambassador Mustang Award – for experienced Mustangs competing successfully • Applications will be given preference if they show direct benefit to recent adopters (e.g., reduced entry fees for new adopters, beginner-friendly formats).
Requirements
Applicants must: • Be a current MHF member • Be the official show organizer or managing entity • Include at least one Mustang-specific class, division, or award • Demonstrate how the event will promote Mustangs to a broader equestrian audience • Provide MHF with post-event results, photos, and participant details **All applications are subject to approval at the full discretion of the Mustang Heritage Foundation.
Selection Criteria
1. Adoption Impact – Does the event encourage or support new Mustang adopters? 2. Visibility – How many people will see Mustangs in action (audience size, community promotion)? 3. Inclusivity – Does the event support both new and experienced Mustang owners? 4. Educational Value – Are adoption resources or Mustang facts included? 5. Feasibility – Is the event plan realistic and sustainable? 6. Need – is the applicant in need of funding to operate? **All applications are subject to approval at the full discretion of the Mustang Heritage Foundation.
Post-Event Requirements
Recipients must submit within 30 days: • Number of Mustang entries and divisions offered • Number of “new adopters” represented • Photos/video of Mustang classes and awards • Audience/attendance estimates • Testimonial or story of impact (e.g., new adopter inspired, returning competitor’s success) • Budget reconciliation