Did Tillamook County find the secret to boosting tourism and community growth? GrantTalk, powered by GrantWatch, is back with another exciting episode! The Queen of Grants, Libby Hikind, shares a meaningful conversation with Nan Devlin, Executive Director of the Tillamook Coast Visitors Association in Oregon. Over the past nine years, Tillamook County has been transformed through community-based sustainable tourism grants funded by creative use of lodging taxes. Here’s how they’ve done it—and what other communities can learn from their experience.
Building Community Through Lodging Taxes
In 2013, Tillamook County faced a fundamental challenge—it had the worst roads in Oregon. The solution? A 10% lodging tax, 70% of which supports tourism-related facilities and promotions. This approach launched a cycle of sustainable tourism, improving community assets while attracting more visitors.
Tillamook County Is Invested
Since its inception, Tillamook County has invested $7 million in tourism signage grants, $6 million in tourism facilities grants, and $1.2 million in tourism marketing grants. These funds have supported projects such as performing arts centers, parks, skate facilities, and a historic railroad, seamlessly blending tourism with community development.
Maximizing Grant Impact
Tillamook’s tourism grants emphasize sustainability and stewardship. For example, marketing grants focus on off-season promotions, encouraging year-round economic activity. Facilities grants prioritize spaces that serve both visitors and locals, like amphitheaters and improved trail systems.
One key takeaway from Devlin: “Always align your grant proposal with the funder’s goals. Address the specific needs they’re looking to fulfill.”
Tips for Successful Grant Applications
Devlin and Hikind shared valuable insights for grant seekers:
- Understand the Grantor’s Goals: Tailor your application to meet their expectations.
- Plan Thoroughly: Show how your project addresses community and visitor needs.
- Follow Directions: Carefully adhere to formatting and submission guidelines.
- Apply Early: Early submissions allow for corrections and suggestions from grantors.
- Communicate: Reach out to funders to ensure your project aligns with their mission.
A Model for Other Communities
Tillamook County’s success story proves that communities can thrive with strategic planning and effective grant management. Their model—reinvesting visitor dollars into community-enhancing projects—can be replicated anywhere.
Tillamook Coast Visitors Association Currently Listed on GrantWatch
- Grants to Oregon Nonprofits and Businesses for Marketing and Events to Promote Tourism deadline has passed 12/1/2024
- Grants to Oregon Nonprofits and Agencies to Promote Local Tourism in Eligible Regions – due 12/15/2024
- Grants to Oregon Tourism-Related Businesses and Nonprofits to Encourage Sustainable Tourism – deadline has passed 12/1/2024
Additional Tillamook County Grant listed on GrantWatch
- Grants to Oregon Nonprofits, Businesses, Agencies, and Individuals for Rental Housing Projects in Eligible Regions due 12/31/2024
Final Thoughts
Grant funding is a powerful tool for community transformation. Devlin noted, “This lodging tax has transformed how people think about tourism and its benefits.” Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, a local official, or a small business owner, remember: there’s a grant for you. Check out resources like GrantWatch to find funding opportunities that align with your vision.
Take Action
Ready to make a difference in your community? Visit GrantWatch.com to discover funding opportunities tailored to your needs.
About GrantWatch
With over 8,200 grants currently available, GrantWatch.com is the leading grant listing directory. Upgrade to a MemberPlus+ subscription to view the full grant details, including eligibility criteria and application information. For more information, you can also visit the GrantWatch FAQ page. Click here to see the great value of all 20 of the top GrantWatch features. Watch the latest episode of GrantTalk, powered by GrantWatch, with host Libby Hikind. You don’t want to miss this. Visit us on YouTube weekly. Get your copy of The Queen of Grants: From Teacher to Grant Writer to CEO, by Libby Hikind.
