The Somerset County Tourism Grant Program, initiated by GO Laurel Highlands (GO LH), aims to bolster the tourism and hospitality sector in Somerset County and the wider Laurel Highlands region of Pennsylvania. The core mission of this program is to drive increased economic activity by attracting overnight stays through various tourism initiatives. This aligns with GO Laurel Highlands' strategic priorities to strengthen the vitality of the local tourism community and foster economic growth within the region. The grant program's theory of change is that by investing in targeted marketing, product development, and special events, they will directly increase visitation, which in turn will lead to greater economic benefits for the local businesses and residents.
The program targets nonprofit and for-profit businesses operating within the tourism and hospitality industry in Somerset County. The primary impact goal is to increase and extend overnight stays in the county, thereby generating more revenue for lodging properties, attractions, and related businesses. Specifically, the program seeks to support initiatives that attract visitors from outside a 50-mile radius of Somerset County.
The grant program has two main types of grants: Marketing Grants and Visitor Center Grants. Marketing Grants prioritize campaigns that reach visitors outside Somerset County, with a focus on increasing visitation to attractions, lodging properties, and multi-day established annual events. New or one-day events are less likely to be funded. Eligible marketing expenses include website development, creative services, printing, brochure distribution, and various forms of advertising (TV, radio, newspapers, digital, social media), and participation in industry trade shows. Visitor Center Grants are specifically for the operation of visitor centers in recognized "Great Allegheny Passage Trail Towns" in Somerset County, covering operational expenses such as payroll, rent, supplies, and utilities.
Expected outcomes include a measurable increase in visitor numbers and duration of stays, leading to enhanced economic activity within the region. Measurable results for marketing grants would likely involve tracking visitor numbers and overnight stays directly attributable to funded campaigns. All tourism grants require a 25% match on the requested grant amount, as mandated by Pennsylvania Act 18, ensuring a shared investment in the program's success. Grant funds must be utilized between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2025, allowing for a clear evaluation period. Grants of $25,000 or less are issued in full, while those above $25,000 receive an initial check of $25,000, with the remainder likely disbursed based on progress or milestones.
