Release Date: November 13,2024
Akron/Summit Convention & Visitors Bureau Accepting Applications for 2025 Destination Development Grant
AKRON, OH (Nov. 13, 2024) – The Akron/Summit Convention & Visitors Bureau (ASCVB) is pleased to announce that its 2025 Destination Development Grant Program is now open and accepting applications. This year the ASCVB will be awarding a total of $100,000 to Summit County organizations, businesses and events within the hospitality ecosystem.
The program is designed to assist qualifying tourism entities in enhancing and increasing the hospitality ecosystem in Summit County, including projects that increase the tourism market share and grow the tourism industry. The goals of the program include 1.) Increase overnight stays in Greater Akron and/or Summit County; 2.) Promote a positive image and increase the visibility of Greater Akron and/or Summit County attractions; 3.) Increase expenditures by visitors to Greater Akron and/or Summit County; 4.) Provide programs and activities beneficial to attracting additional tourists.
“The Destination Development Grant is one of the highlights of the year for us,” said Gregg Mervis, president and CEO of the ASCVB. “By supporting our hospitality partners, we’re investing in a stronger, more innovative visitor economy—ensuring that together, we continue to fuel growth and resilience across our local hospitality industry.”
Along with meeting program goals, to be eligible to receive grant funding, projects need to meet certain criteria and fall within applicable categories. These categories include tourism marketing, tourism property and building improvements and sponsorship of an exhibit or event. Applications are due by Friday, Dec. 13, 2024.
In 2024, the grantees included: Akron Art Museum, Akron Bicentennial, Akron Children’s Museum, Akron Civic Theatre, Akron History Center, Akron Marathon Race Series, Akron Pride Festival, Akron RubberDucks, Akron Zoo, ArtsNow, ART x LOVE, Better Kenmore, Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, Dirty River Bicycle Works, Downtown Akron Partnership, Hoppin’ Frog Brewery, Inspire Aviation, Just Us Line Dance Crew, Kaulig Companies Championship, Magical Theatre Company, Northside Marketplace, Ohio & Erie Canalway Coalition, Ohio Shakespeare Festival, Paddle the River, Peninsula Heron Project, Rubber City Sports, Soap Box Derby, Summit Artspace, Summit County Fairgrounds, Summit County Historical Society, This Is BLK CLE, University of Akron, and Western Reserve Historical Society.
For additional information about the Destination Development Grant Program, please contact Stephanie Berry, VP of Marketing & Brand Management at sberry@visitakron-summit.org.
About the Akron/Summit Convention & Visitors Bureau:
The Akron/Summit Convention & Visitors Bureau (ASCVB), established in 1973, is the official destination marketing organization for Summit County, Ohio. Dedicated to promoting the region as a premier travel destination, the ASCVB works collaboratively with industry partners, stakeholders, and the community to showcase Summit County's natural beauty, cultural attractions, and unique experiences.