Author: Jessica Gregory

Governor Tony Evers announced an $8 million stimulus grant for the Wisconsin Department of Tourism to distribute to in-need organizations that promote travel around the state.

The Tourism Relief to Accelerate Vitality and Economic Lift (TRAVEL) grant aims to reopen local businesses that are a vital asset to Wisconsin's travel industry who have struggled amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

Wisconsin's tourism promotions and development organizations can apply to receive assistance for two different funds, one that assists with their operational costs and another for marketing costs that ensure travelers a safe and memorable experience. Applications are now open and will close at 4:00 p.m. on Sept. 28. 

Tourism Secretary-designee Sara Meaney thanks Gov. Evers for funding the TRAVEL grant through the Federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

Meany said, “While these grants will provide immediate opportunities to sustain the important economic development activities of tourism organizations, they will also fuel Wisconsin's economic recovery in every sector that tourism touches.” 

Abiding by the CARES act guidelines, those who qualify must expend all received funds by Dec. 30, 2020.

The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly affected Wisconsin's tourism industry, one that reached its highest in both visitors and revenue in 2019 and supplies locals with over 200,000 jobs. 

Read Gov. Evers' press release here.