Klamath Falls, Oregon – Klamath County has taken a significant step towards enhancing its tourism sector by launching a Tourism Grant Program aimed at supporting local event organizers and tourism-centric businesses. This initiative is designed to promote tourism within the county by providing financial assistance for regional promotion of events and activities that are expected to draw visitors.
The grant program focuses on projects that present unique opportunities to increase tourist traffic in Klamath County. Applicants are encouraged to detail their target market and the specific strategies they plan to employ to attract this demographic. A notable emphasis is placed on infrastructure projects and those scheduled during the shoulder season, from October to May, to ensure year-round tourism development. The program is funded by the countywide transient room tax, which is managed by the Klamath County Tax Collector.
A seven-member review panel, appointed by the Board of Commissioners, is responsible for evaluating grant applications and suggesting funding levels. The Board of Commissioners then makes the final decision on the allocation of funds, ensuring that chosen projects align with the county’s tourism promotion goals.
The application period for the Tourism Grant Program is set to open on March 1, 2024, and will close by 5:00 pm on March 29, 2024. A critical requirement for applicants is to attend a Marketing 101 class scheduled for March 14, 2024, at the Government Center. However, organizations that have received a Klamath County Tourism Grant in the last 18 months are exempt from this requirement. Following the deadline, the Tourism Advisory Review Panel will review applications and forward their recommendations to the Board of Commissioners.
For those interested in applying or seeking more information about the grant, details are available on the Klamath County website. Additionally, the Klamath County Finance Office is open for queries regarding the program, offering potential applicants the necessary support to navigate the application process effectively. This grant program represents a strategic effort to bolster tourism in Klamath County, promising a positive impact on the local economy by attracting more visitors to the region throughout the year.