Destination Development Awards
How to Apply
Visit Keweenaw annually solicits applications from community organizations to support destination development initiatives. To apply for project funding, please complete an application using the link below. While not required, projects are encouraged to be completed by September 30th of the year funds are awarded.
Program Application: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HG25P83
Eligibility: Local units of government and nonprofit organizations operating in Houghton & Keweenaw Counties are eligible to apply. While businesses are ineligible applicants, they can be part of an applicant team contributing ideas, expertise and additional resources to the effort.
Cost Share: In order to maximize the program's impact, all projects are required to include at minimum 50% cost-share in the form of cash or in-kind match from sources other than the Keweenaw Destination Development Program. For example, if the projects requires $10,000 to complete, only $5,000 can come from the Keweenaw Destination Development Program. The remaining $5,000 can come from the applicant, project partners or in the form of donated in-kind services.
Cost Reimbursement: The award comes in the form of cost reimbursement. Once the project is complete and project costs documented, the applicant is reimbursed up to the total award amount.
Deadline to Apply: The application deadline for consideration is April 1, 2024.
How Are Projects Selected?
Applications are reviewed by the Visit Keweenaw staff and a subcommittee of Visit Keweenaw's board of directors. Applicants are reviewed based on the following criteria:
- Visitor Experience: The extent to which the project will positively enhance visitors' experiences while in the Keweenaw
- Demonstrated Need: The extent to which the project fulfills a need currently not already being met in the area
- Community: The extent to which the project offers benefits to the broader community
- Sustainability: The extent to which the project supports a sustainable tourism industry
- Cost Share Ratio: The proportion of cost share contributed by the applicant in relation to the award amount requested
- Capacity for Completion: The likelihood of the applicant's capacity to successfully complete the project by September 30th, 2024
- Longevity: The applicant's capacity to maintain the project after the destination development award has been expended (e.g. project upkeep/maintenance)
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