Tourism is an important economic driver in Mecklenburg County. We recognize the challenges that have fallen on our small businesses since the Covid-19 pandemic began, and we have put forth our best efforts to respond to those needs. The Gift Card Match Program was established earlier this year to help our for-profit businesses recoup lost income and it proved to be very successful. In fact, we are set to run two more rounds of that program in September and December.

We realize, however, that a distinct group of non-profit organizations also play a vital role in driving visitors to Mecklenburg, and we would like to offer assistance to those organizations as well, through the new Tourism & Arts Relief Grant.

Utilizing CARES funding, we will award $200,000 in grants to 501(c)3 and 501(c)6 organizations located in Mecklenburg County, who’s missions are strongly tied to tourism &/or the arts. Some examples of organizations who may be eligible are: Chambers, Museums, Historic Attractions, Theaters, etc.

Some limitations will apply, but the overall goal of this grant is to help with recovery of lost revenue due to Covid-19. The maximum grant award for any application will be no greater than $20,000.

Applications will be open from Sept 1st through Sept 14th. To learn more, please click the link below.

https://visitmeckva.com/targ/