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Technical Assistance Grant

Please note the 2024 application period for this grant has closed. View 2024 grant recipients here.

The Technical Assistance Grant will subsidize the cost of industry-specific expertise for tourism-related projects that stimulate economic development for destination communities. Eligible projects for grant funding may include design plans for tourism infrastructure, marketing expertise, workforce training programs, and other consulting services for tourism pursuits. Washington-based tourism stakeholders may request up to $15,000 in grant funding based on project eligibility. 

Local governments, tribes, chambers of commerce, destination organizations, and other nonprofit organizations that support travel and tourism are eligible to apply. 

2024 Application Timeline 

April 15 – May 14: Application period open | View the recorded info session.

May 15 – June 5: A review committee of industry experts will evaluate the leading applications

June 15: Award recipients will be notified by email | View the full list of recipients.

July 15: Estimated date grant funds will be made available. Grantees have one year to expend the funds

Eligible Project Segments

The following segments may include but are not limited to funding from the Technical Assistance Grant.

Workforce Training 

Agritourism  

Bike Tourism 

Outdoor Recreation 

Scenic Byways 

Water Recreation 

Applicants are strongly encouraged to match a portion of their grant request with cash or in-kind contributions. Grant funds from SWT should not pay for staff salaries, debt, or interest payments associated with eligible projects. Applicants are also strongly encouraged to collaborate with local destination marketing organizations and industry partners on eligible projects. 

Stipulations for Working with Contractors 

Tourism Stakeholders should express an intention to seek contract work from a third party without naming a vendor. When describing the work, applicants should specify deliverables and the desired qualifications of vendors.  

Applicants must also abide by the following stipulations as outlined by the Washington State Department of Commerce:  

If a micro-purchase (up to $10,000): 

If a small purchase ($10,001 – $30,000): 

For purchases above $30,000 (or $40,000 if using a certified small or veteran-owned business), applicants will need to follow the federal procurement process outlined in 2 CFR 200 procurement

Applicants awarded grant funds must submit all contracts/contractors involved with each project to SWT for review and approval. Contractors must be billed on a reimbursement basis after services are rendered. If applicable, some eligible expenses can only be covered at OFM reimbursement rates

Reporting Requirements  

Grantees must submit two reports (an interim and a final evaluation) and comply with quarterly check-in meetings for the duration of the grant project. If awardees fail to submit an evaluation, their consideration for future grants may be adversely affected.  

The project evaluation should include: 

Be sure to view the FAQ page for this grant program as well as the FAQ page for the application portal. For additional questions, contact Tamara Rice at tamara@stateofwatourism.com

These funds are made possible through a federal grant from the Economic Development Administration, awarded to State of Washington Tourism by the Washington State Department of Commerce for tourism industry pandemic recovery, and are intended for rural and underserved communities.