DOVER — Delaware’s sports tourism industry has seen boosts by the millions over the past several years, but some say more funding is needed to help the First State become and remain competitive.
Earlier this year, the Sports Tourism Capital Investment Fund granted $11.3 million in awarded funds to sporting-based facilities across the state hoping to stimulate the economy in new ways. A new program through the Delaware Tourism Office is adding another $500,000 to help the industry reach the finish line offering grants to organizations that plan sports events or are developing new ones to draw teams to the area.
Funds to be awarded range from $1,000 to $25,000 and will be determined based on economic data and a post-event report which is to be completed by the event owner. Funding for this grant program comes from the Delaware Tourism Office’s budget, which in part, is funded through the state’s accommodations tax.
“The Delaware Tournaments, Events and Athletic …