City of Camden Accommodations Tax Grant

The City of Camden, South Carolina administers the Accommodations Tax Funding Program in alignment with South Carolina’s statewide Accommodations Tax Law (SC Code Section 6-4-5). This law imposes a 2% tax on all transient accommodations, including hotels, campgrounds, and short-term rentals. The revenue supports local tourism development by funding effective promotional projects, expanding tourism's economic impact, and fostering a strong tourism sector throughout the state. Local governments, including Camden, receive quarterly allocations based on point-of-origin collections, with specified portions designated for general revenue and tourism-related expenditures. The City of Camden utilizes a structured allocation model: 5% of the tax “Balance” may be used for general fund expenses, 30% must support ongoing tourism promotion through designated organizations, and the remaining 65% is distributed through a competitive application process to fund tourism-related activities. This latter portion forms the basis of the City’s Accommodations Tax Grant Program. Eligible expenses include advertising and promotion to increase tourist attendance, arts and cultural event promotion, and operating visitor centers—though the latter is limited to the salary of full-time staff assisting tourists. The Camden Accommodations Tax Committee, which advises the City Council, reviews and recommends grant allocations annually. Its mission is to position Camden as a recognized visitor destination while adhering strictly to state funding regulations. The committee prioritizes projects that promote tourism within or near Camden and target state, regional, or national audiences. Eligible applicants must have a valid federal employer identification number and may include nonprofit organizations producing qualifying tourism events or services. Grant funding is reimbursement-based, meaning awarded funds cannot be used as startup capital. Approved projects must use the allocated funding solely for the intended purpose, with no carryover or reallocation allowed. Ineligible costs include activities that don’t directly promote tourism, projects focused solely on fundraising, travel expenses, and various operational or administrative costs such as utilities and postage. Applications are reviewed through a multi-step approval process involving the Accommodations Tax Committee, the Director of Finance, the City Manager, and final review by Camden City Council. Notifications of award decisions are provided in writing after Council approval. The application cycle for FY 2025-2026 is closed. The next opportunity for funding, covering FY 2026-2027, will open in February 2026. All reimbursement documentation must be submitted by June 30 of the grant year, and grantees are expected to use funds only for the approved project scope. Applicants can obtain the application materials online or by contacting the city at 803-432-2421. The City of Camden strongly encourages applicants to thoroughly review the funding handbook before applying to ensure eligibility and alignment with tourism promotion objectives.

Ensure the project attracts out-of-town visitors. Use funds only for the approved purpose and submit complete documentation for reimbursement by June 30.