Advertising Assistance Grants Program

The Hot Springs Advertising and Promotion Commission, based in Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas, is launching its annual Advertising Assistance Grants program for the 2026 cycle. Beginning January 3, 2026, nonprofit organizations located in Hot Springs can apply for funding support to advertise and promote events that attract out-of-town visitors to the area. This initiative is administered by Visit Hot Springs, the city's destination marketing organization, and has a proven track record of contributing to local tourism and economic growth through strategic marketing support for cultural and entertainment events. The primary objective of the program is to stimulate economic activity in Hot Springs by supporting the marketing and promotional efforts of local events that draw tourists from outside the city. The funding is designed to assist—not fully cover—the cost of advertising and publicity related to eligible events. Applicants are expected to use these funds to boost event visibility and increase attendance from non-local audiences, thereby promoting overnight stays in local lodging establishments and driving revenue for restaurants and other local businesses. Eligibility for the grant is strictly limited to nonprofit organizations with valid 501(c)(3) status based in Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas. Events must be actively marketed to out-of-town visitors and meet key program criteria: promoting the city and its surrounding area, contributing to the local economy via tourism, and providing measurable impacts in terms of reach and effectiveness. Past recipients of this grant include notable events such as the Spa Running Festival, Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival, Valley of the Vapors Independent Music Festival, Persistence of Vision Film Festival, and The Big Steam Music Festival. Applications open on January 3, 2026, and must be submitted no later than January 26, 2026. The selection of recipients will be made by the Advertising and Promotion Commission on February 2, 2026, and successful applicants will be notified by February 3, 2026. All interested organizations must email Bill Solleder, Visit Hot Springs Marketing Director, at [email protected] to request an application form. Only organizations that can demonstrate the ability to track the effectiveness of their event marketing are encouraged to apply. The program does not require any pre-application steps such as a letter of intent or concept paper. Selection is based on alignment with the program’s objectives, the potential for tourism impact, and the applicant's ability to measure and report on results. Funding is limited and competitive, with a clear emphasis on supporting events that drive economic growth and highlight the unique cultural offerings of Hot Springs. For more information about the grant program, applicants may contact Visit Hot Springs CEO Steve Arrison at 501-321-2027. The commission emphasizes the importance of accurate, timely submissions and encourages all qualifying nonprofits to apply. This recurring grant opportunity supports the city’s broader efforts to position Hot Springs as a premier destination for regional and national tourism.

Focus on tracking impact and marketing effectiveness to align with funder priorities.