Dana Inc., ProMedica to sponsor Jeep Fest

Spectators watch a parade of Jeeps in Toledo during Jeep Fest in August of 2016.

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Dana Inc. will return as a presenting sponsor of Toledo Jeep Fest, being joined this year by ProMedica, event organizers announced Saturday.

Getting the sponsorship deals locked in is a key part of planning the event, which is scheduled for Aug. 10-12. Organizers have said they think this year’s event — which will feature an all-Jeep parade and car show, dozens of vendors, live music, and a four-mile run — could draw as many as 2,000 vehicles and 60,000 visitors.

Spectators watch a parade of Jeeps in Toledo during Jeep Fest in August of 2016.

Officials from both Dana and ProMedica said they are glad to be working together to make Toledo Jeep Fest possible.

“As our city’s renaissance continues, we are delighted to embrace and celebrate the historical and future role that Jeep has played in our community’s growth and prosperity,” Randy Oostra, ProMedica’s president and chief executive officer, said in a statement.

An original equipment supplier for Jeep since the brand’s beginnings, Dana is also planning to have a large display of its aftermarket products and a number of specially modified Jeep Wranglers at the event.

“At Dana, we have a strong desire to help make the Toledo Jeep Fest a premier event that draws people from around the country to Northwest Ohio,” company spokesman Jeff Cole said in a statement.

Since registration opened in December, about 230 vehicles have been signed up for the outdoor car show. Organizers have also registered more than 50 special Jeeps to be displayed inside the SeaGate Convention Centre.

Event spokesman Whitney Rofkar said the Monroe Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram Superstore is going to be hosting an associated event at its off-road course on Aug. 10.

Toledo Jeep Fest is also partnering with the Toledo Walleye for a Jeep Fest Night on March 9 that will feature Jeep displays. A similar event is in the works with a Mud Hens game.

“We’re just hoping to work with partners to build over time through August excitement and get people engaged before the [event] weekend is here,” Ms. Rofkar said. 

Ms. Rofkar said organizers have raised about half of their $300,000 goal, including the $50,000 each from Dana and ProMedica.

Other early sponsors include Lucas County, United Auto Workers Local 12, Georgia-based aftermarket parts provider Omix-Ada, Rudolph Libbe Group, Sheet Metal Workers Local 33, Lathrop Co., Fifth Third Bank, and KeyBank.

Contact Tyrel Linkhorn at tlinkhorn@theblade.com, 419-724-6134, or on Twitter @TyrelLinkhorn.