The Market New York Tourism Grant Program is a state-funded initiative administered by Empire State Development through its Division of Tourism. This program is part of the broader Regional Economic Development Councils (REDCs) strategy, aimed at bolstering economic growth throughout New York State. It specifically focuses on expanding the tourism sector by supporting marketing efforts, special events, and business-related gatherings that draw visitors to various regions within the state.
The primary objective of the Market New York grant program is to strengthen New York's tourism industry and enhance visitor attraction by promoting destinations, attractions, and unique events. Eligible projects include marketing initiatives, special events like festivals and tournaments, and the recruitment of business events such as trade shows and conventions. These initiatives are intended to create significant economic impact and align with long-term regional economic development plans.
For the fiscal year 2025-2026, up to $7 million is available through this grant program. A 50% match is required for working capital and marketing projects, with a minimum funding request of $50,000. The program has also incorporated tourism capital projects into the broader Regional Council Capital Funds Program to ensure consistency and increase available funding.
Eligibility for this grant includes not-for-profit corporations, municipalities, tourism promotional agencies (TPAs), public benefit corporations, and for-profit companies. Applicants must be certified in New York State. Individuals, SUNY schools, and New York State agencies are not eligible. Not-for-profit applicants must comply with New York State’s Not-For-Profit Corporation Law and provide proper documentation including incorporation proof, charity registration, and IRS tax-exempt status.
Applications must be submitted via the Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) portal. For Round 15, the application portal opens on May 19, 2025, and the submission deadline is July 31, 2025, at 4 PM EST. Award announcements are expected in late fall 2025. Interested parties can attend an informational webinar hosted by the Division of Tourism on June 10, 2025, to gain insight into eligibility, application requirements, and evaluation criteria.
Applicants seeking further information can contact the New York State Division of Tourism at RegionalTourism@esd.ny.gov. Additional resources, including detailed guidelines and FAQs, are available online, along with information on related programs like I LOVE NEW YORK and REDCs.
