Organizations, municipalities, businesses, and entrepreneurs can begin applying for Chautauqua County’s 2027 Tourism Product Development Grant Program starting July 1.

Applications for programs and initiatives are accepted online annually between July 1 and October 1 for funding in the following year. Projects should help attract visitors, particularly overnight guests and highlight what makes Chautauqua County unique. The Tourism Product Development Grant Program is funded through the county’s 5% Occupancy Tax, which is generated from the rental of lodging units within the county. Sixty cents of every occupancy tax dollar (3%) support tourism initiatives, while forty cents (2%) is dedicated to improving and maintaining local waterways. Each year, a portion of the tourism allocation is reserved for Tourism Product Development Grants. Grant categories are reviewed and updated annually to reflect changes in the county’s tourism economy and to align with local and regional development priorities.

This year, two grant categories will be offered: placemaking and attraction development and marketing and event development. Funding levels, guidelines, and restrictions vary by category. Awards will be determined through a competitive application, review, and ranking process. Grant requests must be for a new project or a significant expansion or enhancement of an existing project.

Strong applications will focus on new or significantly expanded projects that create distinctive and memorable visitor experiences. Collaborative tourism projects that align attractions and events around shared goals and complement rather than replicate existing efforts are strongly encouraged.

Projects that capitalize on the shoulder seasons, demonstrate a path toward long-term sustainability, and show the potential to attract both public and private investment are especially encouraged. Applicants must include a plan for follow-up and demonstrate measurable outcomes, particularly increases in visitation from outside Chautauqua County. Reporting on these outcomes will be required as part of the final project report.

Applications will only be available online through the Planning and Development website at planningchautauqua.com. Hard-copy applications will not be accepted.

Not-for-profit organizations, municipalities and other governmental entities, businesses/corporations, public or private schools, and property owners located within Chautauqua County can apply. Grants of up to $15,000 for placemaking and attraction development will be awarded and $10,000 for marketing and event development awards. A single project may receive funding for a maximum of three years.

For more information, review the 2027 guidelines at planningchautauqua.com, or contact Stephanie Nick at 716-661-8214 or nicks@chqgov.com.