City opens redesigned grant application process for tourism and cultural enrichment projects

City opens redesigned grant application process for tourism and cultural enrichment projects

August 29, 2024

The City's Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC) will accept grant applications for tourism and cultural enrichment projects from Sept. 1 to Sept. 30. Successful applicants will receive funding for use in the 2025 calendar year. These grants are available for event/festival organizers, tourism promotion organizations, and one-time tourism program and tourism facilities projects.

The LTAC recently revised the criteria for making award decisions by creating four categories to define applicants' eligibility better and clarify uses for the funding. Higher priority is also being given to reaching a broader, citywide pool of applicants and non-peak season events to help ensure year-round impact.

To support applicants with the updated application process, optional Question and Answer sessions will be held from 1 to 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 10 and 4 to 5 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 23. Applicants interested in joining are asked to email Kimberly Kerlee at [email protected] to receive a link.

Using the updated criteria, the LTAC will evaluate applications based on alignment with the City of Vancouver's Strategic Plan Core Values, Visit Vancouver's Destination Master Plan, seasonality, geography, equity and inclusion, environmental sustainability, uniqueness, and economic impact. Award decisions will be made based on available funds and strength of application. Four new grant categories are available:

1. Cultural Enrichment Grant: Resources to support events or festivals that support the cultural enrichment of Vancouver
2. Large Event/Festival Grant: Resources to support events or festivals designed to contribute to the local tourism economy, attract a significant number of visitors and enhance Vancouver as a tourism destination.
3. Tourism Organization Operating Grants: Resources to support destination marketing or visitor attraction efforts of organizations focused on marketing and promoting Vancouver as a visitor destination or enhancing the local tourism experience.
4. Tourism Program or Facilities Grants: Resources to support one-time tourism marketing or promotion programs or investments in tourism facilities designed to enhance the tourism experience or grow Vancouver's tourism industry.

Applicants are asked to apply for the grant category they feel most closely aligns with the scope and purpose of the funds their organization is requesting. Decisions will be based on available funds, economic impact and strength of application.

Interested applicants can learn more about grant categories, eligibility and find links to apply at www.cityofvancouver.us/lodgingtaxgrants.

Media contact: Chris Harder, Deputy Economic Development Director,[email protected]