Tourism Destination Development Grant Program

The Tourism Destination Development Grant (DDG), administered by the Flagler County Cultural Council (FC3), is a locally funded program designed to enhance tourism offerings and infrastructure in Flagler County, Florida. This initiative is supported by the Flagler County Tourist Development Tax, a 5% tax collected from all overnight lodging accommodations such as hotels, motels, private rentals, and similar short-term stays. The tax proceeds fund tourism-enhancing projects, as authorized under Florida Statute Section 125.0104(5)(a)3. The DDG aims to strengthen the region’s appeal as a premier travel destination by supporting small-scale initiatives that attract out-of-county visitors, thereby contributing to the local economy. This grant program prioritizes new or expanded programs and projects that enhance the tourism experience in Flagler County. Eligible activities include modest enhancements to facilities or services, recurring cultural programs, and long-term tourism development initiatives. Projects should primarily serve tourists, even though local residents may also benefit. All grants are reimbursed upon project completion, meaning organizations must have the financial capacity to front project costs and wait for reimbursement after submitting proof of expenditures. The DDG plays a central role in advancing Flagler County’s strategic goals related to tourism and economic diversification. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations located in Flagler County with at least one year of proven programming history. They must demonstrate financial stability and the capacity to meet the program’s 1:1 cash match requirement—meaning applicants must provide matching funds equal to the amount requested. In-kind contributions or other grant funds cannot be used for the match. Applicants must also be in good standing with local regulations and past grants, and must complete approved projects within nine months of award approval by the Flagler County Board of County Commissioners (FCBCC). The organization’s board must approve both the project and the matching funds. The application process is managed entirely online via the Submittable platform. Applicants are required to submit a completed application, a current IRS Form W-9, a Vendor Information Form, and proof of board approval (via meeting minutes or a signed letter). Additionally, grant recipients must name the FCBCC as an additional insured party on a general liability insurance policy with minimum coverage limits of $1 million for both personal injury and individual occurrences. Certificates of insurance must be submitted 30 days before project start. Once submitted, each application is evaluated within 45 days by a panel selected by FC3 using a 100-point rubric assessing project impact, feasibility, financial readiness, innovation, and long-term sustainability. Scores below 75 are automatically disqualified without appeal. FC3 forwards recommended awards to the FCBCC, which makes the final funding decisions. The application window for FY2025–2026 opens on March 9, 2026, and remains open until funds are exhausted or the fiscal year ends on September 30, 2026. After project completion, recipients must submit a post-project report, including photos and a written narrative, along with a completed reimbursement form, proof of payment, and a final budget showing projected versus actual costs. This documentation must be submitted within 60 days of completion. The TDO reviews all materials before releasing reimbursement funds. Organizations that fail to meet reporting requirements or misrepresent project outcomes may be ineligible for reimbursement or future funding and could be subject to audit or repayment of awarded funds.

Projects scoring below 75 points are not eligible and cannot appeal. Ensure cash match documentation is complete.