Tourism Development Grants

The Tourism Development Grants administered by the Monroe-West Monroe Convention and Visitor Bureau, operating as Discover Monroe-West Monroe (DMWM), are designed to strengthen the tourism economy of Ouachita Parish, Louisiana. DMWM is a destination marketing organization funded through hotel occupancy taxes and is tasked with increasing visitation, enhancing the visitor experience, and generating economic impact for the region. The organization focuses on increasing lodging occupancy, boosting attendance at local attractions, and promoting Monroe-West Monroe as a desirable travel destination. Through its grant programs, DMWM reinvests tourism-generated revenue into initiatives that further expand the local travel economy. The program includes multiple funding opportunities, notably the Product Development Grant and the Tourism Marketing Grant. Both are structured as reimbursement-based grants, meaning awardees must incur expenses upfront and then request repayment. These grants are not intended to fully fund projects but rather to supplement and leverage other funding sources. The Product Development Grant supports projects that enhance visitor experiences and encourage overnight stays, while the Tourism Marketing Grant focuses on promotional efforts and events that increase tourism visibility and lodging demand. Funding is derived from hotel occupancy taxes paid by visitors, and DMWM is subject to annual audits and reporting requirements to ensure accountability. Eligible uses of funds include a range of tourism-supportive activities such as entertainment, event logistics, production, graphic design, marketing, promotion, and visitor experience enhancements. However, certain restrictions apply. Grant funds may not be used for salaries, and specific types of events such as family reunions, public expos, and conventions are explicitly excluded. The program prioritizes initiatives that demonstrate a strong tourism connection and the ability to attract visitors from outside Ouachita Parish, including overnight guests, media attention, and increased spending across hospitality and retail sectors. Eligibility is limited to nonprofit organizations recognized under Section 501 of the Internal Revenue Code, as well as tourism-related partners whose projects align with DMWM’s mission. All funded activities must take place within Ouachita Parish and should contribute to positioning Monroe-West Monroe as a compelling destination. Projects with a proven track record or strong potential to draw regional, state, or national attention are given special consideration. Applicants must also demonstrate the ability to generate measurable economic benefits, such as hotel room nights, particularly aiming for at least 50 room nights for marketing-focused initiatives. The application process requires submission through designated forms, including an initial application and subsequent reporting forms for reimbursement. Applicants must provide detailed descriptions of their projects, including marketing strategies, promotional materials, and expected outcomes. Additional requirements include submitting Form A at least 60 days prior to the start of the event or marketing activity to request partial reimbursement, and Form B within 90 days after completion to request final payment. Organizations are limited to one grant per year per event and must complete any prior grant obligations before applying again. Applications are evaluated by DMWM based on criteria such as tourism impact, visitor draw, project strength, and alignment with destination goals. Funding decisions are influenced by available resources and application scores, and partial funding may be awarded. Deadlines occur twice annually on January 31 and July 31, indicating a recurring funding cycle. The program emphasizes strategic timing, with preference given to events that drive visitation during off-peak months such as January, February, August, November, and December. For inquiries, applicants may contact the designated program representative via email. Overall, the Tourism Development Grants serve as a strategic investment tool to amplify tourism-driven economic growth in Ouachita Parish. By supporting innovative events, marketing initiatives, and visitor-focused enhancements, DMWM aims to increase overnight stays, elevate the region’s profile, and sustain long-term economic benefits for the local community.

Emphasize measurable tourism impact, demonstrate ability to generate overnight stays, align project with destination marketing goals, and provide detailed marketing and promotional plans