Destination Development Capital Grant Program

The Destination Development Capital Grant Program is administered by the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism within the Executive Office of Economic Development. This program is designed to strengthen the long term sustainability of the Commonwealth by investing in tourism related capital projects that enhance visitor experiences and drive economic growth. The program reflects the state commitment to increasing both in state and out of state visitation while supporting regional economic development across Massachusetts. The primary purpose of the program is to fund capital improvements that directly support tourism infrastructure and destinations. Eligible projects include the expansion, construction, restoration, or renovation of tourism assets such as attractions, facilities, and public spaces. Projects must demonstrate a clear connection to tourism outcomes, including increased visitation, repeat visitation, and measurable economic impact. The program emphasizes projects that provide long term value, requiring funded improvements to have a useful life exceeding five years. Funding under this program supports a range of capital project categories, including infrastructure improvements such as signage, transportation solutions, and structural upgrades; facility enhancements such as restroom improvements, accessibility upgrades, and waste management systems; and design and engineering work tied directly to a capital project that can be completed within three years. Funds are distributed on a cost reimbursement basis and may only be used for eligible capital expenses. Operating costs, unrelated personnel expenses, and general overhead are not allowable. A key requirement of the program is the provision of matching funds. The match requirement scales based on the size of the award, ranging from fifty percent for smaller awards to one hundred percent for larger awards. Matching contributions may include cash, in kind support, donated land, equipment, or professional services directly tied to the project. However, certain sources such as federal funds, other state grants, and employee time are explicitly excluded. Recipients must secure and document matching funds by the end of the project period or risk reimbursement obligations. Eligibility is limited to public agencies, municipalities, tribal entities, and nonprofit organizations incorporated in Massachusetts with appropriate federal tax status. Applicants must have been in operation for at least two years, be in good standing with state and local requirements, and demonstrate prior investment in tourism related activities. Organizations must also show how they address diversity, equity, and inclusion within their operations. For profit entities, public higher education institutions, and organizations outside Massachusetts are not eligible. The application process requires submission through an online portal and includes multiple required components such as project descriptions, financial documentation, letters of support, and in some cases a climate resilience report. Applications are evaluated based on criteria including project vision, alignment with tourism strategies, execution capacity, economic impact, and alignment with policy priorities such as climate resilience and rural or cultural tourism. Projects located in designated cultural districts or rural areas may receive additional consideration. The program follows a defined annual timeline, with applications opening in late June and closing in mid August. Questions must be submitted in advance of the deadline, and awards are typically announced in September. Funded projects must be completed within a multi year period ending June 30, 2029. Recipients are required to participate in regular progress reporting and submit a final accomplishment report documenting expenditures and outcomes. This structured process ensures accountability while supporting impactful tourism development across the Commonwealth.

Focus on clearly demonstrating economic impact and tourism value align project with regional tourism strategies secure strong letters of support and ensure matching funds are well documented emphasize climate resilience and readiness to execute