VisitErie has officially opened applications for its 2026 Matching Funds Grant Programs, offering financial support to help strengthen Erie County’s tourism economy. The grants are aimed at boosting marketing initiatives and events that attract visitors from outside the region. Local businesses, organizations, and event planners are encouraged to apply for two available funding opportunities.
The Tourism Marketing Matching Funds program is designed to promote VisitErie partners and enhance Erie County’s visibility as a regional tourism destination. To qualify, applicants must be active VisitErie partners and demonstrate an ability to draw out-of-town visitors.
VisitErie will award a total of $40,000 in tourism marketing funds for 2026. Individual applicants may receive up to $5,000 in matching support, with a minimum required match of $2,000. Approved projects will receive a dollar-for-dollar match.
The application deadline is Feb. 6, 2026. More information and application materials are available at:
https://www.visiterie.com/tourism-marketing-matching-funds-program/
The Event Matching Funds program assists event planners with promotional or operational needs for events capable of drawing visitors from beyond Erie County. A total of $20,000 is available for 2026, with individual grants of up to $1,000. Up to 20 businesses will receive funding for events held between January and December 2026.
Applications and details can be found at: