Sponsored by Tourism Dollars through Destination Seneca County
"We Fill in the Gap"
Purpose:

Destination Seneca County has set aside funds to develop a up to 50 percent match grant program to assist with the marketing of events which exhibit positive tourism potential. These funds are to assist qualified applicant organizations with the advertising and promotion of activities which directly increase lodging occupancy in designated periods throughout the year, create positive image building publicity for the Seneca County area, and enhance the tourism environment of our area. The goals of the program are simple:
  • Increase overnight stays in Seneca County
  • Promote a positive image and increased visibility of the county’s attractions
  • Increase expenditures by visitors to Seneca County
  • Provide programs and activities beneficial to drawing additional tourists from a 50+ mile radius
  • Feature new or expanded events, projects or programs
Funding: 
  • The Destination Seneca County is pleased to announce funding for the 2021 GAP program. Grants are available from a minimum of $250 (Two-Hundred Fifty) to $2,500 (Twenty-Five Hundred) and will be contingent upon the amount of overnight stays the event, project or program generates.
Application Guidelines:

Those eligible to apply include any not-for-profit group or organization doing business in the Seneca County area. Such parties may apply for GAP according to the following rules:

1. All grant recipients will credit the Destination Seneca County for their support by using Destination Seneca County’s logo and website address and the following copy in all printed materials and media. “Supported by a grant from Destination Seneca County.” Marketing material must be approved by the Executive Director of Destination Seneca County before printing to ensure the credit is correct.

2. Funding may be requested for
  • marketing, promotion and advertising expenses
  • Creative costs for ad development
  • Entertainment fees - Qualifying entertainment must be added entertainment that would stretch or enhance the event such as an event related demonstration, a new (if annual event) performer/performance that adds to the theme of the event, or activities specifically for children or seniors.
  • Printing of event brochures for fulfillment and distribution reaching an audience outside of a 50-mile radius of the Seneca County area. The Destination Seneca County logo and website address must be clearly presented with the following “Supported by a grant from Destination Seneca County.”
  • Site transportation for larger venues, i.e., carriages, wagons, shuttles, particularly if additional transportation options are needed to increase attendance.
  • Postage fees for fulfillment mailings and distribution outside a 100-mile radius of Seneca County.
3. Funding may not be used for administrative, equipment, capital improvements or space costs.

4. Funding will not be awarded for more than 50% of the overall budget.

5. Special events, projects and programs for which grants are requested must occur within a year in which the grant application is submitted.

6. Previous grant recipients must have submitted a Final Report Form to Destination Seneca County before being eligible for another grant.

7. If an applicant is requesting funding for more than one special event, project or program, separate applications must be completed for each request. Applicant should prioritize requests.

8. Applicants must have a fiscal agent – an incorporated, not-for-profit, that provides administrative and financial services. The fiscal agent accepts responsibility for administering the paperwork and project funds throughout the grant process.

9. Applications must include an overall budget.

10. Applications may include relevant support materials.


Grant Procedures:

  • All completed application forms and support materials must be turned into the Destination Seneca County office.
  • Application packets are reviewed by the GAP program Committee and then presented to the Destination Seneca County’s Tourism Council for final funding decisions.
  • Once funds are awarded, a letter of the decisions informs all applicants. 
  • Applicants who receive a favorable decision enter into an agreement with Destination Seneca County.
  • Within 30 days after successfully completing the special event, project or program, grant recipients must submit a Final Report Form that includes:
  1. sample advertisements placed using the Destination Seneca County logo, website address, and with the proper wording,
  2. proof of payment,
  3. paid invoices and copies of checks,
  4. and a written request for reimbursement to the Destination Seneca County for review. This request must include a written summary outlining the number in attendance, advertising response and comments about the success of the event. Please include suggestions on improving the event in future years.
  • Final payment of grants will be sent to recipients 60 days following review of the required information and GAP program Committee approval.
If you have any questions or comments, please contact:

Bryce Riggs, Executive Director - Destination Seneca County
96 South Washington Street, Suite B, Tiffin, Ohio 44883 briggs@TiffinChamber.com

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