Tourism Grants

The City of Battle Ground is offering a tourism-focused grant program designed to support activities that attract visitors and stimulate economic activity within the local community. Administered at the municipal level, this initiative is funded through lodging tax revenues and reflects the city’s broader commitment to enhancing tourism as a driver of economic development. By reinvesting these funds into local programs and events, the City aims to create sustainable opportunities for increased visitation, business growth, and community engagement. The primary purpose of the grant program is to provide financial assistance for projects and activities that demonstrably promote tourism in Battle Ground. Eligible uses of funds include both marketing and operational expenses associated with special events, programs, and initiatives that are expected to draw visitors from outside the immediate area. Examples of previously funded projects include the development of wayfinding signage, production of promotional materials, and operational support for events. This indicates a flexible funding scope that accommodates both promotional and logistical components, provided they align with the goal of increasing tourism. Funding is distributed on a reimbursement basis, meaning recipients must initially cover costs and then submit documentation for repayment. The source material does not specify award amounts, total program funding, or the number of awards available, suggesting that funding levels may vary depending on the scope and quality of proposals received. There is also no indication of a matching requirement, implying that applicants are not required to contribute additional funds beyond their proposed project budgets. Eligibility criteria are not explicitly defined in terms of organization type; however, the nature of the program implies that entities capable of organizing tourism-related activities may apply. This likely includes nonprofits, local businesses, community groups, and possibly municipal or quasi-governmental organizations. Applicants are required to submit a detailed proposal that includes a summary of the planned activity or event, an explanation of how it supports tourism objectives, and a proposed budget outlining the use of lodging tax funds. The application process is straightforward and requires submission by a fixed deadline. Applications must be completed and submitted by August 31 at 5:00 pm. There is no mention of a pre-application phase such as a letter of intent or concept paper. After submission, proposals are reviewed by the City’s Lodging Tax Advisory Committee, which evaluates applications and forwards recommendations to the Battle Ground City Council. Final award decisions are made by the City Council, with determinations expected in December. The timeline for this grant cycle is clearly defined. Applications are currently open and will close at the end of August. The review and decision-making process occurs in the subsequent months, culminating in award announcements in December. Funded activities are intended to take place during the 2027 calendar year, establishing a forward-looking planning horizon for applicants. The recurrence of this grant program is implied by its structured annual cycle tied to tourism planning and lodging tax allocation. For additional information or clarification, applicants may contact Finance Director Meagan Lowery, who serves as the primary point of contact for the program. She can be reached via phone at 360-342-5025 or by email at meagan.lowery@cityofbg.org. This direct contact channel provides an opportunity for prospective applicants to seek guidance on proposal development and eligibility considerations.