The Olympic Peninsula Visitor Bureau (OPVB) is seeking applications for qualified tourism project grants, primarily targeted to off-peak season activities within Clallam County.

Marsha Massey, Executive Director of OPVB, commented, “Tourism Enhancement Grants are accepted four times during the year. Our goal is to help develop a more year-round tourism base, to better contribute to a healthy local economy by supporting local activities, spending, tax generation and jobs through increased visitation to the area.”

• Grant application deadlines for 2019 funds are: Feb. 1, April 1, Sept. 3, and Nov. 1.

• OPVB Grant Committee Review: Feb. 14, April 11, Sept. 12, and Nov. 14.

• OPVB Board Approval (tentative dates): Feb. 20, April 17, Sept. 18, and Nov. 20.

“OPVB looks to put marketing funds into promoting events under a grant program. This Grant Program gives Clallam County event promoters a much-needed boost in their marketing budget – especially for a new project just getting off the ground. The goal being to help attract over-night visitors to our local lodging, especially Spring and Fall, and ultimately generate more lodging tax funds. Whenever your event falls, consider contacting us,” urged Linda Offett, OPVB Board President, and Forks Timber Museum, Manager.

Tourism Enhancement Grants support tourism marketing, collateral production, promotion of area festivals and events, and website development, primarily within Clallam County. Grant guidelines and applications are available at http://www.olympicpeninsula.org/page/tourism-grants. Call Marsha Massey for more information, 360-452-8552, if your organization is interested in applying for a grant.

Funds for this grant program are derived from revenue generated by the hotel/motel tax on lodging facilities in unincorporated Clallam County. Lodging tax revenue is designated for the promotion of tourism to encourage long-term economic growth through tourism-related projects or events that attract overnight guests to the destination.