Pike County Tourism Grant Applications Open

PITTSFIELD — Pike County is now accepting applications for tourism project funding made available through accommodations tax revenues, offering financial support for projects that promote tourism and enhance the quality of life across the county.

The program is open to individuals, businesses, agencies, and non-profit organizations that have a physical presence in Pike County, or projects sponsored by a Pike County organization. Funds must be used for ventures that directly promote area tourism or provide a measurable benefit to Pike County, with an emphasis on attracting visitors and encouraging overnight stays.

Applications must be typed, fully completed, and include all required supporting materials. Completed applications must be received by 5:00 p.m. on the designated deadlines. Each applicant will have the opportunity to participate in a brief question-and-answer session with the Tourism Funding Advisory Board, though attendance is not required during the board’s formal review process. Applicants will be notified of approval or denial once decisions are finalized.

Eligible projects may include initiatives that develop or expand tourism programs or facilities, build partnerships among tourism providers, or create new efforts to attract visitors to Pike County. The advisory board encourages creative proposals that either enhance the community for residents or strengthen the county’s tourism profile. All funded projects must comply with local laws, and grantees are responsible for securing any required licenses, permits, insurance, or approvals.

Projects that already have full funding in place, do not provide a clear benefit to Pike County, or primarily benefit a single individual are not eligible for funding.

Applicants must submit a complete project budget and timeline. Projects may be funded up to 100 percent of eligible costs. Requests under $1,000 will be paid in full upon approval, while requests over $1,000 will receive half of the funding up front, with the remainder paid upon project completion or through submitted bills, as agreed upon. Funds are paid directly to the applicant, not to contractors or vendors. Grantees are required to submit quarterly progress reports, along with final expense documentation and a project recap upon completion. Any unused or ineligible funds must be returned to the Accommodations Tax Fund.

Projects will be evaluated based on several factors, including the potential number of visitors generated, emphasis on overnight stays, the number of people reached, financial need, the percentage of funding requested, the quality of the proposal, and the likelihood that the project will achieve its stated goals.

Application materials are available through the Pike County Chamber & Economic Development Corporation, located at 1301 East Washington Street in Pittsfield. Questions about the program can be directed to (217) 440-5101 or gsheurman@pikeedc.org.