INVER GROVE HEIGHTS, Minn. — Cenex, the energy brand of CHS Inc., has launched the second annual Hometown Throwdown contest. The contest invites individuals and organizations to nominate their hometown festival by sharing what makes their celebrations unique.

This year, the grand prize winner will receive $100,000, the runner-up will take home $20,000, third place will be awarded $15,000, fourth place will receive $10,000 and the fifth-place winner will take home $5,000.

The entry period for the competition runs through Feb. 7. Individuals and organizations can enter through the Hometown Throwdown online entry form. Five finalists will be announced on May 1 and voting will be open through May 31. Winners will be announced on June 17.

“The Cenex brand is proud to give back to the communities we call home, and there’s no better way to celebrate than by embracing the pride and joy people feel for their local festivals,” said Erin Wroge, senior director of energy marketing, Cenex. “Hometown Throwdown is a way of honoring the spirit and traditions that make each community unique.”

To be eligible, festivals must be run by a local chamber of commerce, municipality, downtown commission, community-oriented nonprofit group or other similar organization. Festivals must take place in the 19 states served by Cenex, which includes North Dakota.