Klamath County, Oregon – Klamath County’s next wave of growth may begin with a new storefront, a larger payroll or an event that gives visitors a reason to arrive when tourism usually slows.
Two county grant programs opening this fall are aimed at turning those ideas into measurable results, with separate funding tracks for economic development and tourism projects.
The application window for both programs will open Sept. 1, 2026, and close at 5 p.m. Sept. 30. County officials have made the deadline firm: late applications and supporting documents will not be accepted.
The Economic Development Grant Program is intended for regional businesses seeking help with startup costs or expansion plans. Priority will go to proposals that can support job creation, business growth and a stronger long-term economy in Klamath County.
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Applicants will need more than a promising concept. Projects should identify a clear target market and explain how the business plans to reach it. That focus is meant to direct funding toward ventures with a practical strategy, a defined customer base and the potential to produce lasting local benefits.
Economic development grants are supported by the Oregon State Lottery Fund.
The Tourism Grant Program takes a different route but shares the same broader goal of strengthening the county’s economy. It is designed for events, activities and projects capable of attracting visitors to Klamath County, with special attention given to ideas that can bring people in during the shoulder season from October through May.
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That timing matters because tourism activity often fluctuates throughout the year. Projects that create reasons to visit outside the busiest months could help extend the local travel season and generate business for lodging providers, restaurants, shops and other services.
Infrastructure proposals are also strongly encouraged under the tourism program. Funding comes from the countywide transient room tax and is administered by the Klamath County Tax Collector.
Before submitting an application, prospective applicants must complete a mandatory grant orientation. The session will be held at 9 a.m. Sept. 11 in Room 219 of the County Government Complex.
Attendance is required for anyone seeking a Klamath County Tourism or Economic Development Grant. Applicants only need to attend one orientation class during the calendar year in which they apply, but the class must be completed before the application cycle closes.
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Applications and additional program details will be posted on the Klamath County Grant Programs webpage at https://www.klamathcounty.org/1323/Klamath-County-Grant-Programs.
Those seeking more information can review the individual grant pages on the county website or contact the Klamath County Grants Office at 541-851-3637. With one month to apply and a required orientation on the calendar, businesses and community organizers now have a clear timeline to prepare ideas that could shape Klamath County’s economic and tourism future.
