Tourism Accredited Zoos Program

The Tourism Accredited Zoos Program is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) to provide critical financial support to zoos in the Commonwealth that hold active accreditations from the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) and/or the Zoological Association of America (ZAA). This program reflects the state's commitment to elevating standards of animal care, public education, and conservation efforts within zoological institutions. The initiative aligns with the broader tourism goals of the Commonwealth, emphasizing the importance of accredited zoos as both conservation centers and key attractions that contribute to regional economic vitality through increased visitation and community engagement. The core mission of the AZA Accreditation Commission is to maintain the highest standards for zoos and aquariums in areas such as husbandry, safety, ethics, and animal care through rigorous self-assessments, on-site inspections, and peer reviews. Similarly, ZAA accreditation emphasizes ethical animal management practices in both private and publicly funded facilities. Through the Tourism Accredited Zoos Program, Pennsylvania incentivizes continuous improvement and ensures that institutions holding these credentials receive funding necessary to enhance their facilities and programs in line with these high standards. Eligible zoos can apply for funding to support a variety of initiatives. These include structural enhancements, new construction, and renovation projects within zoo facilities. Additionally, funds may be directed toward developing marketing, advertising, and public relations campaigns aimed at increasing attendance and public awareness. The program explicitly permits operational expenses as qualifying uses, broadening the scope of eligible projects and offering flexible support tailored to each zoo’s developmental stage and strategic goals. Applications for this program must be submitted via the DCED’s Electronic Single Application for Assistance platform. Submissions must include a narrative detailing the applicant’s mission, the project's objectives, the need for funding, and the expected measurable outcomes. Supporting documents should outline the project schedule, budget, and justification for cost projections. For applications including consulting or professional services, a full scope of services must also be attached. All submissions undergo a selection process based on eligibility, the clarity and impact of proposed outcomes, and overall compliance with program guidelines. Successful applicants are required to adhere to Commonwealth branding standards in promotional materials funded by the grant. This includes the use of visitPA.com logos and direct website linkage. Financial compliance is strictly monitored: recipients must place grant funds in interest-bearing accounts and return any unspent funds or earned interest. Additionally, projects funded at $100,000 or more require a formal audit, while smaller grants must be closed out with a Grant Close-Out Report. Any non-compliance with reporting or audit requirements renders applicants ineligible for future funding. Interested applicants must be registered with the Pennsylvania Vendor Registration System before grant disbursement. For guidance, applicants may contact DCED’s Customer Service Center. If funding is awarded, further inquiries are directed to an assigned Account Manager. The program accepts applications on a recurring basis, and applicants who are not selected in a given fiscal year are encouraged to reapply in subsequent cycles.