Travel Oregon Opens Application Process for 2016-2017 Matching Grants

Travel Oregon is pleased to announce the opening of two Matching Grants Program opportunities with a combined $560,000 of available funds.

The program makes awards to eligible applicants for projects that contribute to the development and improvement of the tourism economy in local communities throughout the state in support of Travel Oregon’s mission of "a better life for Oregonians through strong, sustainable local economies." 

The 2016-2017 Travel Oregon Matching Grants cycle has $500,000 available for grant awards. Eligible projects may be awarded up to $100,000 (see application guidelines for specific project eligibility requirements). 

An additional $60,000 of available funds will be administered through the Oregon Wine Country Plates Matching Grants Program that awards up to $20,000 for wine and culinary tourism initiatives.

Both grant programs require applicants to match the awarded grant dollar-for-dollar. Up to 50% of the match may be in-kind.

Cities, counties, port districts, federally recognized Tribes, non-profit entities in Oregon involved with tourism promotion and development are eligible to apply. Projects should target the development of tourism infrastructure or strategic collaborative marketing initiatives that align with local, regional or statewide efforts and increase the likelihood of visitation from outside the local area. Partnerships with local, regional and statewide tourism organizations, economic development and/or government organizations and tourism-related businesses are key to a successful grant application.

Travel Oregon will hold webinars on February 24 and March 30 to outline the process of applying for a grant. Additional details are available at: Industry.TravelOregon.com/Matching-Grants.

  

Top banner photo courtesy of Team Dirt, using matching grant dollars for the construction of a one-mile black-diamond cycle trail at Alsea Falls Recreation Site.