Tourism Grant Program

The City of Roseburg, Oregon, through its Community Development Department and Economic Development Commission, administers a biannual Tourism Grant Program funded by the local hotel and motel lodging tax collected within city limits. The grant program supports marketing, promotion, and tourism infrastructure efforts aimed at increasing visitation to Roseburg and the surrounding areas. The grant cycle opens twice a year—in spring and fall—with the fall 2025 cycle accepting applications starting Monday, November 3, 2025. This funding opportunity is available to registered businesses, 501(c)(3) and other 501(c) tax-exempt organizations, and governmental entities. The intent of the program is to encourage innovative ideas and activities that attract tourists, especially during the non-peak travel season from Labor Day through Memorial Day. The City Council has discretionary power to award grant amounts exceeding $7,500, although most awards fall within that range. Grants may be used to support activities such as advertising, publicizing, or distributing materials to promote special events and festivals that bring in out-of-town visitors. Funding is also available for capital improvement projects that primarily serve to enhance or support tourism. Examples of previously funded initiatives include marketing efforts for the Umpqua Valley Arts Summer Arts Festival, Ghosts of Roseburg Past, and infrastructure improvements like the giraffe viewing platform at Wildlife Safari. Applications must be well-researched and clearly demonstrate how funds will be utilized. Submissions are due by 5:00 PM on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. Applications can be submitted in person, by mail, or electronically by completing the application form available starting November 3 and sending it to [email protected]. The Economic Development Commission will review and vote on the submissions during its next meeting on Thursday, January 22, 2026. This program does not include a pre-application step such as a letter of intent. There is no stated limit on the total amount of funds available, nor is a matching contribution required. Questions about the grant can be directed to the Community Development Department at 541-492-6750 or via email at [email protected]. The application process is expected to take a moderate amount of time due to the need for detailed project planning and outcome demonstration. The Roseburg Tourism Grant Program aims to amplify the impact of tourism by supporting events and facilities that contribute to the city's cultural and economic vitality. Its flexibility in project scope and award size makes it accessible to a diverse range of applicants who share the goal of promoting Roseburg as a travel destination during the shoulder and off-peak seasons.

Proposals that focus on the off-season (Labor Day to Memorial Day) are especially encouraged.