The Tourism Marketing Grant provides funding for tourism marketing campaigns and initiatives that support the CTO's (Colorado Tourism Office) mission “to empower the tourism industry by inspiring the world to explore Colorado responsibly and respectfully.”
The Fiscal Year 2026 Tourism Marketing Grant Program will prioritize funding for marketing campaigns and initiatives that support the work of the America 250 - Colorado 150 Commission(opens in new window) and celebrate this milestone. This includes marketing campaigns and initiatives that highlight Colorado's diverse heritage and cultures, and share those uniquely Colorado stories and experiences. This focus aims to boost tourism during the national commemoration of America's 250th anniversary and Colorado's sesquicentennial.
The minimum funding request is $2,500 and the maximum is $49,000. Matching funds are required, and based on funding request as outlined below:
$49,000 - $20,001 - 2:1 funding match required
For every $1 a grantee allocates to the proposed project, the Colorado Tourism Office will provide $2 in matching funds. For example, if your total project budget is $60,000, you are eligible to request a $40,000 grant, with the remaining $20,000 to be provided by the grantee as a cash match.
$20,000 - $2,500 - 4:1 funding match required
For every $1 a grantee allocates to the proposed project, the Colorado Tourism Office will provide $4 in matching funds. For example, if your total project budget is $12,500, you are eligible to request a $10,000 grant, with the remaining $2,500 to be provided by the grantee as a cash match.
Grant goals are to:
Strengthen Colorado’s statewide economic growth by championing a strong Colorado brand.
Advance the state’s competitive position as a leading four-season destination.
Support the promotion and education on responsible travel and destination stewardship.
Strive to ensure all feel represented and welcome in Colorado.
Maximize the economic return on public and private investments in Colorado by leveraging funds to optimize marketing impact.