Our Story

Selection Factor Meetings was founded by Erik Benson, with a passion for both the agriculture industry and hotel and meeting sourcing. Recognizing the need for a specialized meeting site selection service tailored to the agriculture industry, we set out to fill that gap.  Erik and his family currently own and operate a 5^th generation row crop farm in Western Minnesota – growing corn, soybeans, sugar beets, and alfalfa.

Prior to returning to the family farm, Erik spent 15+ years in the hospitality industry – including on-property and corporate hotel leadership roles with Hyatt Hotels Corporation and Marriott Hotels & Resorts throughout the U.S.  Erik previously served as Vice President of Sales & Marketing for a large Marriott franchise company – leading the sales, revenue, and events teams at 20 upscale and luxury Marriott hotel properties throughout the U.S., including Westin, Le Meridien, Marriott, and Luxury Collection branded hotels and resorts.

Erik and his team have helped numerous agricultural groups select and contract hotel venues for their meetings and events, earning a reputation for reliability, professionalism, and exceptional service.  Having served on Boards of Directors for a Washington D.C. based commodity growers association and an industry advocacy group, Erik has an in-depth understanding of the importance and role played by agricultural association meetings and industry conferences.