2024 Tourism Advancement Grants

The Tourism Advancement grants provided by Tompkins County aim to attract visitors to the area, specifically encouraging overnight stays. This aligns with the broader mission of promoting tourism and supporting local economic development within Tompkins County. The grants fund a variety of projects and marketing campaigns designed to increase travel demand. The primary beneficiaries of these grants are nonprofit organizations designated as 501(c)3 and municipalities within Tompkins County. The impact goal is to generate increased tourism, particularly during periods when the market has the capacity for additional travelers. This strategic approach ensures efficient utilization of existing infrastructure and maximizes the economic benefit to the county. The program prioritizes initiatives that are aligned with the Strategic Tourism Plan or other established tourism implementation plans. Focus areas include large-scale events, marketing campaigns, artistic and cultural installations, guided tours, and various recreational and sporting events. These activities are expected to draw a diverse range of visitors, including niche audiences. Expected outcomes include an increase in the number of overnight stays in Tompkins County and a boost to the local economy. While specific measurable results are not detailed in the provided text, the emphasis on "generating travel demand" and "attracting visitors" implies that success will be measured by indicators such as visitor numbers, hotel occupancy rates, and overall tourism revenue. The grant activity period runs from November 2024 to April 2025, suggesting a focus on increasing tourism during the off-peak or shoulder seasons.