Jackson County Tourism Development Authority announces new grant program

JACKSON COUNTY, N.C. (July 1, 2021) – The Jackson County Tourism Development Authority (JCTDA) announced it is now accepting applications for its new grant program, which will fund $50,000 in community initiatives this year.  A committee consisting of JCTDA Board Members, community members, past grant applicants, and grant writers reviewed the grant program and made improvements, ultimately expanding eligibility, uses, and funding for this year. 

“In looking at the grant program, we realized our guidelines and requirements were too narrow to invite the type of projects and creative programs that will build our community and visitor experience,” said JCTDA Executive Director Nick Breedlove. “The JCTDA’s grant committee spent months reworking the grant program, and we’re very excited to now start accepting applications.”

JCTDA grants are used to assist with promoting and supporting events and initiatives that generate overnight visits and increase tourism, along with enhancing visitors’ experiences to Jackson County. Notable changes to this year’s program include:

·       Changing focus of ‘festivals/events’ to ‘initiatives’ to broaden projects supported

·       Allowing For-Profit entities to apply

·       Allowing partnerships with neighboring counties

·       Giving preference to public/private collaboration

·       Rolling grant cycle – applications are considered on an ongoing basis (10 times a year vs. once a year) 

·       Providing a detailed scoring rubric to assist applicants in understanding what projects will receive the highest priority

·       Removing the funding cap of $1,750 and granting application funding based on the rubric scoring

Funding comes from occupancy tax collected in Jackson County from overnight visitors. More than $115,000 in grant funds have been given out since the program began in 2013. 

The complete application, guidelines, and deadlines for consideration are available online at www.JacksonCountyTDA.com by clicking on ‘Grants.’

Those with questions may call the Jackson County TDA at 828-848-8711.

About Jackson County, NC

Cashiers, Cherokee, Dillsboro, Sylva, Balsam, Cullowhee, Glenville and Sapphire are the distinct locales that make up Western North Carolina’s Jackson County. Each of these Blue Ridge Mountain towns provide natural beauty that invites visitors to experience the North Carolina Mountains. Jackson County is also home to the nation’s first and only fly-fishing trail, The Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail. The majestic mountains harbor miles of hiking trails and waterfalls while charming downtowns are known for shopping, dining, culture, and hometown atmosphere. For more information visit, www.DiscoverJacksonNC.com.