BOOST Tourism Grants Awarded by the City of Waynesboro
WAYNESBORO, VA– The City of Waynesboro invests annually in tourism-oriented business endeavors, events, and projects through their grant program, “Building Opportunities tO Support Tourism (BOOST).” City businesses and organizations were invited to apply for up to $3,000 to support eligible activities such as events, festivals and projects intended to entice visitation as well as the associated marketing, design and printing costs. Funds are accessible for new and existing tourism-related endeavors taking place within the City of Waynesboro between July 1, 2016 and June 30, 2017.
“Tourism spending in Waynesboro now exceeds $34 million1. There are events and attractions that people have come to know and love. The BOOST Grants allow the organizations whose efforts sustain these events to market to a larger audience,” says Courtney Cranor, Assistant Director of Economic Development and Tourism. “This year’s grant winners are showcasing everything from our history and cultural heritage to outdoor recreation in our spectacular setting and agricultural heritage.”
A six person committee comprised of four City employees, one member of the Waynesboro Economic Development Authority and a representative from the Virginia Tourism Corporation met to review the ten applications received for the program. This year, every applicant was able to receive at least some amount of funding, a sign that Waynesboro is growing as a dynamic tourist destination and the city is supporting this growth every step of the way. The VA Fall Foliage Art Show, Riverfest, Waynesboro Farmer’s Market, Waynesboro Heritage Museum, Wayne Theatre Alliance, VA Chili Blues n’ Brews Festival, P. Buckley Moss Museum, Waynesboro at War, and the Waynesboro Soap Box Derby will each receive funds from the grant.
# # #
1 2014 Figures, US Travel Association for domestic visitor spending (latest available)