Conn. (WTNH) – The Eastern Regional Tourism District helps support local tourism opportunities. It provides the means to stimulate the economy in the eastern part of the state.

Venues or organizations that offer hiking trails, boating adventures, arts and culture, museums, theaters, historic sites and villages are encouraged to apply for funding.

Jim Bellano, chairman of the Eastern Regional Tourism District, told News 8, “We first tried to raise some funding – appropriate funding – to smaller venues. We have always heard across the region that museums and other tourist establishments – leisure, entertainment, and the arts – have really had trouble raising money. Maybe they could raise $ 3-5,000, but we figured if we can win a match we can double the impact. “

The program has approximately $ 60,000 to distribute, with no more than $ 10,000 being used on a project. The application deadline is June 1st.

Eligibility includes:

  • Marketing program applicants must be located in the 41-city Eastern regional tourism district.
  • Funding must be in cash and verified.
  • Marketing programs must be compatible with the stated mission and objectives of the ERTD.
  • Programs must contain that CTVisit.com/MysticCountry Logo on all materials and advertisements and must be compatible with the Connecticut Office of Tourism’s marketing efforts.
  • Programs and messages must be approved by the ERTD Marketing Committee, Board, and COT.
  • Government tourism funds cannot be used by applicants to develop their websites.
  • Programs can be run by the partner district as agreed in the proposal.
  • Any program selected under this grant process must be completed by September 30, 2021.
  • The submission must be made in writing online to the ERTD Marketing Committee and identify all partners involved in the effort.
  • Please email any responses to Courtney Assad at cassad@chamberect.com. The answer should include a full description of the proposal, a timeline, and its measurable goals and budget. Applicants are entitled to one program grant per year.