Eastern Regional Tourism District Announces First Awardees for 2020 Regional Marketing Partnership

The Eastern Regional Tourism District (ERTD) today announced the first two funding recipients for the 2020 Regional Marketing Partnership Program. ThinkMystic, a project formed in partnership between Mystic tourism entities and attractions, and Wide Open, a program organized by the Last Green Valley Heritage Corridor, each received funding to promote tourism opportunities for their respective regions. The ERTD has been allocated $180,000 for the 2020 Regional Marketing Partnership Program by the Connecticut Office of Tourism. Of that funding, $130,000 in matching funds remains available for potential programs within the district The ERTD is accepting applications on a rolling basis through October 31, 2020.

“Our tourism industry has been severely impacted by the pandemic, and we want to do everything we can to give our economy the resources it needs to grow and thrive under the difficult circumstances,” said ERTD vice-chairman, Tracey Hanson. “After working hard to reorganize and reform our operating policies in early 2020, I’m thrilled that the Eastern Regional Tourism District is now operating and supporting our tourism economy.”

Each of the announced programs is designed to bring small and large tourism businesses within their respective communities together to promote their region to external markets. Both Wide Open and ThinkMystic have unique brand images and utilize a mixture of digital and traditional marketing tools. In addition, each project will align with the Connecticut Office of Tourism’s statewide tourism marketing efforts.

“This program is a great opportunity for our tourism businesses to come together and showcase all the great experiences that Connecticut has to offer,” said property manager for Olde Mistick Village, Chris Regan. “Tourism is dramatically different than it was only a few months ago, and our businesses have adapted to offer incredible and creative experiences while remaining conscious of the public health. It’s time we spread the word.”

To be considered, applicants must submit proposals in PDF format and submitted to Courtney Assad at the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut at cassad@chamberect.com. Plans should include a full project description, timeline, measurable goals and proposed budget. Applicants will be eligible for one program grant per year.

About Connecticut Eastern Regional Tourism District
The Eastern Regional Tourism District (ERTD) is comprised of 41 eastern Connecticut towns and municipalities and is designed to stimulate and support the growth of eastern Connecticut’s tourism economy by providing marketing, grant and collaboration opportunities. Created through the Connecticut Office of Tourism, the ERTD is committed to supporting the growth of tourism venues and activities throughout Eastern Connecticut and Mystic Country. For a full list of represented towns and more information, visit http://www.ctvisit.com.