The Tourism Development Grant, administered by the Zanesville Muskingum County Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB), is designed to enhance the economic impact of tourism in Muskingum County, Ohio. This competitive grant opportunity supports nonprofit, for-profit, and municipal organizations in their efforts to attract visitors through marketing, promotional activities, and event-based initiatives that may result in increased overnight stays and return visits.
Funded by a portion of the county lodging tax, the CVB allocates a total of $15,000 for the program annually. The grant is administered in two rounds. Round One opens on October 1, 2025, and closes on November 30, 2025, with award notifications by January 31, 2026. Round Two will open on April 1, 2026, and close on May 31, 2026, with awards announced by July 31, 2026. Each applicant may request up to $1,500, and no more than 50 percent of the overall event budget may be funded through this grant. Funds not awarded in Round One may be carried over to Round Two.
Eligible projects must occur in Muskingum County during the 2026 calendar year and must be open to the public. The program emphasizes projects that enhance the county's tourism offerings, encourage economic development through visitor spending, and generate measurable community benefits. Applications will be evaluated by the Tourism Development Grant Committee based on criteria such as the uniqueness of the event, potential to attract visitors from beyond a 50-mile radius, marketing strength, and organizational capacity.
Funds may be used for event marketing, advertising, creative development, photography, printing of brochures for distribution beyond 50 miles, and qualifying entertainment that enhances the event. Ineligible uses include food and alcohol costs, administrative salaries, cash prizes, and expenses deemed overhead or outside Muskingum County. Applicants must submit a detailed application and post-event report and must comply with branding and promotional obligations including use of the Visit Zanesville logo, event listing on the CVB calendar, and submission of event photos.
To be eligible for future grants, recipients must meet all reporting and compliance criteria. Questions can be directed to Kaitlynne Peters at kpeters@zmchamber.com or Starr Jinkens at sjinkens@zmchamber.com, or by calling 740-455-8282. The CVB reserves the right to modify the program criteria or funding availability without notice.
Focus on tourism draw from >50-mile radius; demonstrate economic impact; include strong visuals and media opportunities; provide detailed and compliant budget.
