Description
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is issuing a Notice of Funding Opportunity to promote destinations, tourism attractions, and tourism events throughout the state. The goal of the program is to increase overnight stays in paid accommodations. Eligible applicants include counties, municipalities, not-for-profit organizations, and local promotion groups located outside of Cook County. The program will provide matching grants to assist in promotional activities such as travel-related promotional materials, media, billboards, websites, market research, travel/trade shows, visitor inquiries, mail promotions, and promotional publications.
• Eligible projects must have a total project cost of at least $20,000.
• Up to 50 percent of the total project cost may be funded.
• Grantees must provide matching funds equal to no less than 100% of the grant amount.
• Indirect costs are not eligible for this program.
• Applications will be reviewed on a competitive basis, and grants will be awarded based on the merit review process.