Tourism Capital Grants support major investments in visitor-generating projects such as theaters, museums, and other major cultural and recreational attractions.
Donor Name: Tompkins County
State: New York
County: Tompkins County (NY)
Type of Grant: Grant
Deadline: 08/31/2023
Size of the Grant: $5,000 to $100,000
Details:
The funds can be used for design, renovation, and new building projects; investments in unique permanent installations such as exhibits; and feasibility studies of potential capital projects. This grant is funded by Hotel Room Occupancy Tax collected in Tompkins County, NY. Ithaca Area Economic Development (IAED) administers the program with review by the Strategic Tourism Planning Board (STPB).
Funding Information
Award Range: $5,000 to $100,000
Eligible Activities
Capital Investment Projects
New construction and renovation projects are eligible. The project may provide expansion or renovation to existing facilities or establish a new facility. Project will typically be valued at $75,000 or higher. Grant funds may contribute up to one-third (33%) of eligible costs that include:
- Acquisition of land
- Acquisition, construction, and renovation of buildings
- Acquisition of furnishings, equipment, permanent exhibitions, and other capital improvements designed to serve or promote tourism over a minimum of five years
- Design services for the project
Feasibility Studies
Studies should lead to a capital investment as described above. Eligible projects include:
- Concept-level design and determination of cost estimates
- Tourism plan for a capital project
- Business plan for a capital project
Eligibility Criteria
- Non-profit organizations designated as 501(c)3
- Municipalities within Tompkins County
Considerations
- Applicants should be aware of the Diversity Statement approved by the Strategic Tourism Planning Board (STPB). The STPB encourages applicants to consider how their projects can appeal to diverse audiences and reflect the diversity of the community.
- Applicants should review the Strategic Tourism Plan to determine how their proposal supports stated goals and focus areas.
- Applicants should be aware of the permits, licenses, and approvals that will be required to complete the project and be prepared to describe them in the application.
- Applicants should be able to describe the current annual attendance (or audience).
- Applicants should be able to describe the portion of their current attendance (or audience) that comes from outside of Tompkins County.
For more information, visit Tompkins County.
