Tourism Grant Program

The Henderson Tourist Commission administers a tourism-focused grant program funded through a three percent transient lodging tax collected from hotels, motels, cabins, and bed and breakfast establishments in Henderson County, Kentucky. These funds are governed by state statute and are restricted to activities that promote convention and tourism. As part of its annual funding cycle, the Commission allocates a portion of these funds to support festivals, events, and special projects that enhance Henderson’s attractiveness as a visitor destination and stimulate the local visitor economy. The primary purpose of the Tourism Grant Program is to increase overnight visitation and improve the overall visitor experience within Henderson County. Funded activities must demonstrate a clear ability to attract out-of-town visitors and generate measurable impacts on lodging occupancy or tourism engagement. The program emphasizes initiatives that highlight the unique cultural, recreational, and community assets of Henderson, positioning the area as a competitive regional destination. Grant funds are intended to supplement, not replace, the existing budgets of applicant organizations. Eligible expenses include advertising and promotional activities, particularly those targeting audiences beyond a 50-mile radius of Henderson County unless otherwise approved. All awarded funds remain subject to audit by the Henderson Tourist Commission, ensuring compliance with stated objectives and proper use of public tourism funds. Eligible applicants include organizations planning special events or tourism-related projects scheduled between July 1, 2026 and June 30, 2027. To qualify, applicants must submit a complete application detailing event logistics, projected visitor numbers, length of stay, marketing strategies, and a comprehensive budget outlining both revenues and expenditures. The program requires clear documentation demonstrating how requested funds will directly support tourism outcomes. The application process requires submission by June 26, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Applications are first reviewed by the Executive Director for completeness and accuracy. Applicants may subsequently be invited to present their proposal at a Commission meeting. Evaluation criteria include the scale and timing of the event, anticipated tourism impact, quality of the promotional plan, and financial feasibility supported by an itemized budget. There is no explicit mention of matching fund requirements; however, the requirement that funds supplement existing budgets implies that applicants must demonstrate financial contribution or diversified funding sources. Award decisions are based on alignment with tourism goals, strength of planning, and the potential to generate measurable economic impact. For additional information or assistance, applicants may contact the Executive Director via email.

Emphasize measurable tourism impact, provide strong visitor projections, and ensure marketing targets audiences beyond 50 miles; include detailed and realistic budget