Tourism office OKs $5.2M grants

The Utah Board of Tourism Development has approved more than $5.2 million in cooperative marketing grants for 59 destination marketing organizations and travel-related nonprofits in 24 counties throughout the state. The goal of the co-op program is to leverage state and partner dollars to attract visitors and expand the tourism economy.

“The Cooperative Marketing Program is the most direct investment our organization makes to support tourism initiatives at the local level,” said Vicki Varela, managing director of the Utah Office of Tourism and Film.{mprestriction ids="1,3"} “This funding will enable communities to lead their tourism economies in a way that’s consistent with local priorities. This is a priority under our Red Emerald Strategic Plan.”

After the successful launch of the Forever Mighty co-op marketing pilot program in 2021, the Co-op Marketing Committee made the decision to integrate the two programs into a single application process. Applicants who successfully demonstrated the incorporation of the Forever Mighty ethics in their marketing plans had the opportunity to be awarded additional points toward their overall score.

“Once again, I was left inspired by the optimism and ingenuity of our applicants,” said Kym Buttschardt, UOT Co-op Marketing Committee chair. “The awards were well-deserved. Our industry partners will execute thoughtful, creative plans to create even more unforgettable experiences for our visitors.”

The Utah Cooperative Marketing Program was established in 2005 and has since successfully funded 936 applications totaling $53.4 million to destination marketing organizations and travel-related nonprofits, extending the state’s brand to $106.8 million in out-of-state marketing dollars.{/mprestriction}