Eastern Regional Tourism District Accepting Applications for Marketing Grants

The Eastern Regional Tourism District (ERTD) is now accepting applications from organizations seeking funding for marketing projects that will promote tourism in eastern Connecticut.

ERTD’s Regional Marketing Partnership Program provides a one-to-one match for eligible organizations within the 41-town region. To qualify, organizations must meet all grant requirements, including a matching funds commitment.

The deadline to apply is Jan. 17, 2025, at 11:59 p.m.

"Four years ago, a handful of us had a vision," said Chris Regan, Chairman of the District. "Today, that vision is a reality. This successful program has leveraged state dollars to significantly promote and market eastern Connecticut. And we're just getting started."

A total of $70,000 has been allocated by the Connecticut Office of Tourism to fund the 2025 program.

From 2020-2024, $451,267 in grant funds were awarded to 55 applicants. At the end of this grant cycle ERTD will have awarded $521,267.

Plans should focus on marketing eastern Connecticut’s tourism economy and encourage the safe enjoyment of Connecticut’s tourism opportunities as well as collaboration and partnerships.

"We're inviting organizations of all shapes and sizes to apply," said Fran Kefalas, Chair of the Grants Committee. "By working together, we can create new partnerships and develop fresh marketing strategies to attract visitors from all walks of life. Let's show the world what Eastern Connecticut has to offer."

There will be a Zoom Q&A Session on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at noon. Questions about how to access the Zoom and any other questions can be directed to Andrea Manning at (860) 701-9113 ext. 2256 or email visiteasternct@gmail.com.

Here are the rules to apply: 

• All proposals must be submitted via email in PDF format to: visiteasternct@gmail.com. 
• The submission must contain an overview and full description of the project; whether the project is a one-time initiative or a long-term campaign; project timeline; measurable goals; budget; towns and venues promoted; capacity to complete the project; sources of matching cash funds; number of collaborative entities involved; number of visitors impacted; seasons involved; what unmet regional tourism needs it fulfills.
• Have you received an ERTD grant in the past? If so, describe how this is different.

About the Eastern Regional Tourism District:

Our mission is to stimulate and support the growth of eastern Connecticut’s tourism economy by providing marketing, grant and collaboration opportunities for the region’s municipalities and tourism venues. ERTD markets and promotes the 41 cities and towns of eastern Connecticut. For a full list of what to do, where to shop, where to eat, and where to stay, please visit CTvisit.com/eastern-connecticut.