The Fernley Convention and Tourism Authority (FCTA), governed by the City of Fernley in Nevada, offers grants to promote and develop tourism within the city. These funds are managed by the FCTA Board, which reserves the right to approve, reject, or waive irregularities in any applications if deemed in the board’s best interest. The grant program operates on a reimbursement basis and is designed primarily to act as seed money to help initiate or expand projects with long-term sustainability potential.
For fiscal year 2025-2026, the grant application period runs from May 1 through May 30, 2025. Applications must support projects, events, or activities scheduled between July 1 and December 31, 2025, that promote tourism in Fernley. Eligible uses of the funds include advertising the city’s resources, accommodations, transportation, events, and natural assets, along with other marketing-related costs. The grant program is open to both nonprofit and for-profit organizations, although for-profit entities must provide a one-to-one funding match.
Applications must be submitted using the official FCTA form and must include a detailed project description, budget, distribution plan, media schedule, and estimated tourism impact. A complete narrative explaining both short- and long-term goals and any previous FCTA funding history is also required. Applications can be submitted online through the FCTA portal, via email, or delivered physically to City Hall. The FCTA no longer accepts submissions via the Citizen Services portal.
The FCTA Board will review applications during its public meeting on June 9, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers. Attendance by grant applicants is strongly encouraged, as lack of representation may impact funding consideration. Award decisions will be communicated following the meeting. Grants are strictly reimbursable, and reimbursement requires submission of supporting documentation, including invoices and evidence of matching funds where applicable.
Eligible expenses include advertising, public relations, event start-up costs, research, and promotional expenses with measurable outcomes. Ineligible costs include capital improvements (except signs), salaries, administration, and any expenses incurred before the award. All grantees must complete a project evaluation form detailing outcomes, economic impact, and visitor metrics to qualify for future funding.
For assistance or inquiries, applicants may contact April Homme at ahomme@cityoffernley.org or call 775-784-9858. The application and grant guidelines, including the February 2021 revisions, are available on the City of Fernley website. The FCTA encourages innovative and collaborative proposals that demonstrate strong community and tourism partnerships.
