No organization connects Minnesota’s housing industry like Housing First Minnesota. Our advertising and sponsorship opportunities give your business direct access to engaged homebuyers, trusted industry professionals, and decision-makers across the state. From nation-leading home tours to high-visibility industry events, we put your brand where people are paying attention. Add in trusted publications and high-traffic digital platforms, and the result is marketing that delivers measurable impact. And in this feature, our sales team offers practical tips and forward-looking strategies to help you take full advantage of what 2026 has to offer.
Reaching the Right People, the Right Way
Partnership with Housing First Minnesota opens the door to high-value customers—like ready-to-act homebuyers, housing industry professionals, and both B2B and B2C businesses. “Our advertisers gain access to targeted audiences that can move the needle for their business,” says Devin Lehnhoff, senior account executive.
But access alone isn’t enough. It’s about showing up in the right way. “We’re a strong team of innovators that can elevate your brand to new heights,” adds Allyson Sample, engagement account executive. “You’re not just booking a print ad or a booth—we’re helping you create experiences that feel fresh, engaging, and tailored to your goals.” Every strategy is built around your end goal.
Moving Beyond Traditional Ads
While traditional placements like print ads remain powerful, today’s most effective strategies blend classic exposure with creative activations. “The most successful sponsorships sit at the intersection of clear business goals and revolutionary ideas,” explains Kate Gunderson, senior vice president, growth & engagement. “Today’s effective partnerships often focus on creating immersive, experiential activations that engage audiences on a deeper level.”
These activations can take many forms—from hands-on experiences at consumer tours, to content-rich collaborations on digital platforms, to curated VIP networking opportunities at industry events. “Everyone is vying for attention,” Sample notes. “The brands that stand out are the ones willing to try something new—whether that’s blending digital with in-person touchpoints, experimenting with storytelling-driven sponsorships, or tailoring a campaign so it feels personalized to the audience.”
Maximizing Your Marketing Investment
Budgets will always be top-of-mind. The Housing First sales team stresses that businesses don’t need to have massive resources to make a meaningful impact. “A strategically placed print ad in the right publication can deliver strong brand exposure,” Lehnhoff shares. “On the digital side, cost-effective options like Instagram takeovers or collaborative Reels can quickly grow your reach among housing-interested consumers.”
Any investment, if well-targeted, can hit its target. Sample encourages businesses to think creatively: “Sometimes it makes sense to narrow your scope rather than spread your spend too thin. We’ll help you find smart, cost-effective ways to see a return on your investment.”
Customization Is Key
The common thread in Housing First Minnesota’s approach is customization. Every partnership begins with a conversation about goals, target audiences, timelines, and budget. From there, the sales team develops options tailored to fit. “A well-defined partnership from the start helps ensure that both parties have a clear vision of success, allowing for smoother execution and measurable results,” Gunderson emphasizes.
Sample sees customization as a way to truly elevate impact: “Every business is different, so no two sponsorships should look alike. We can build custom packages that combine traditional exposure with fresh delivery.”
Looking Ahead: What’s New in 2026
Housing First Minnesota continues to expand its offerings to meet members’ evolving needs. Gunderson is especially energized by the innovation coming next year. “We’re experimenting,” she says. “Adding new event integrations, pioneering the digital space, creating more personalized sponsorship experiences, and offering tools that let brands interact with their audience in dynamic new ways.”
Now is the perfect time to plan. With 2026 on the horizon, reach out to sales@housingfirstmn.org to explore your options and discover how Housing First Minnesota can help your brand connect, engage, and thrive.
