Tourism Promotion in Haywood County

The Haywood County Tourism Development Authority (HCTDA) Grant program for 2024-2025 aims to financially support initiatives that enhance tourism within Haywood County, North Carolina. This program is sustained by room tax revenue, directly aligning the grant's mission with the economic development and visitor attraction goals of the region. By investing these funds back into the tourism sector, HCTDA seeks to bolster local businesses and non-profit organizations that contribute to the county's appeal as a destination. The grant targets a diverse range of beneficiaries, including non-profit organizations, for-profit businesses, museums, attractions, cultural events, and governmental agencies. Eligibility criteria vary slightly between the two main grant categories: Legacy Event Sponsorship and Tourism Promotion Grant. Legacy Event Sponsorship is open to a broader array of entities that have a proven track record of drawing visitors, while the Tourism Promotion Grant is primarily for non-profit organizations, museums, attractions, and governmental agencies, with a specific provision for for-profit tourism-based organizations with a 100% grant match. The program's core priorities and focuses are to attract visitors from outside a fifty (50) mile radius and to generate overnight stays, thereby creating economic and destination impact. Preference is given to applications that demonstrate a strong potential to achieve these outcomes. This strategic focus ensures that the grant funds are utilized to maximize external visitor engagement and directly contribute to the county's tourism economy, while also enhancing the quality of life for local residents. Expected outcomes and measurable results include increased visitor numbers, extended stays, and a stronger overall tourism image for Haywood County. The grant program seeks to support innovative campaigns, advertising efforts, and promotional activities that effectively reach target markets. Successful applications will demonstrate how their initiatives will not only attract tourists but also showcase the unique aspects of Haywood County and its communities, leading to sustained economic benefits. The HCTDA's strategic priorities are rooted in leveraging room tax revenue to cultivate a vibrant and robust tourism industry. Their theory of change posits that by providing targeted financial support for established events and promotional initiatives, they can directly stimulate visitor traffic, encourage overnight stays, and foster a positive economic ripple effect throughout the county. This approach ensures that the grant program acts as a catalyst for growth, continually reinforcing Haywood County's position as a desirable tourist destination.