The Tourism Marketing Challenge Grant Program guidelines and application for FY14 are now available online. The grants assist non-profit tourism entities in their efforts to promote attractions and events that are open to visitors. The competitive grant program is a creative partnership between DECD’s Connecticut Office of Tourism (COT) and industry partners to increase high value visitation and extend the State’s strategic marketing efforts.
Grant funding ranges from $7,500 to a maximum amount of $50,000. A one-to-one match is required. The deadline to submit applications is December 6, 2013.
The proposed projects considered for funding must have a definable impact, encourage innovation, and contribute to the State’s vitality and economic health. Projects that are new or unique, encourage tourism visitation to a region rather than a single community, and projects that promote extended stays will receive greater consideration.
Eligible project expenses include the following categories: media advertising; direct marketing; promotional pieces; production projects; direct sales; public relations; social media, research and strategic marketing planning; or web design and development.
Check www.cultureandtourism.org for grant guidelines and application. Please contact Rena Calcaterra, 860-256-2744 (Rena.Calcaterra@ct.gov) or Jennifer Haag, 860-2765 (Jennifer.Haag@ct.gov) if you have any questions.