The Joint Effort Marketing (JEM) Grant Program, administered by the Wisconsin Department of Tourism, provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in Wisconsin to promote tourism. The program offers grants for five categories: New Events, Existing Events, Sales Promotions, One-Time/One-of-a-Kind projects, and Destination Marketing. The goal is to generate an increase in visitors and a positive economic impact in the local area while targeting markets beyond the local region.
Grant funding reimburses a percentage of eligible promotional expenses, up to specific maximums. In the first year, up to 75% of promotional costs (no more than 50% of the total budget) are reimbursed. For second- and third-year funding, reimbursement drops to 50% and 25%, respectively. Subsequent year applications are contingent on submitting evaluations of previous funding cycles. Eligible expenses include marketing campaigns, advertisements, PR initiatives, and influencer collaborations. Operational costs, local advertising, and ineligible promotional materials like street banners are excluded.
The program prioritizes projects with creative and broad appeal, aligning with Wisconsin's statewide marketing plan. Applicants must submit detailed project descriptions, promotional and operational budgets, economic impact projections, and tracking plans. Events must target new geographic markets, audiences, or mediums to demonstrate significant potential for increased attendance.
Applications must be submitted through the online portal at least 90 days before promotional activities begin. Deadlines vary by grant type: New and Existing Events, Sales Promotions, and One-Time projects are due quarterly, while Destination Marketing applications are accepted on April 1 and September 1.
For further assistance, applicants can contact Heidi Schultz, Grant Coordinator, at 608-261-6272 or via email at hschultz@travelwisconsin.com. The program aims to enhance Wisconsin's tourism industry through innovative and strategic marketing collaborations.
