Grant applications open to approved 501(c) organizations promoting tourism in Ouachita Parish [Video]

WEST MONROE, La. (KNOE) – Discover Monroe-West Monroe has opened its grant application cycle for tourism events and marketing initiatives.

“It’s only for 501(c) organizations, so anyone that has that 501(c) designation can apply. And we’re really looking for events or projects that are going to impact the tourism economy. So, things that are going to bring visitors in from outside of Ouachita Parish,” said Sheila Snow, who’s the vice president of marketing and communications for Discover Monroe-West Monroe.

The Tourism Event & Marketing Grant is a reimbursement grant that the staff with Discover Monroe-West Monroe said is intended to assist with new events and marketing. They’re helping the region increase hotel bookings.

“We’re funded by a hotel occupancy tax and so the grant funds come from that as well. And so that’s what we’re hoping – to get with the partners in this program; to find projects, either events …