The City of Salem has been awarded additional grant money from the Virginia Tourism Corporation to attract visitors to the city. Salem has now received more than 15 tourism grants since 2020.
These latest funds will be used for two specific purposes. The $10,000 grant is being used to support and enhance the city’s VA250 celebrations. Many locals and visitors enjoyed Lord Dunmore Day at the Salem Museum last month and other events are scheduled as the nation’s 250th birthday approaches.
Another $2,500 award is being used to attract visitors to Salem by using digital web-based advertising. The city’s Tourism Department is partnering with Sojern to create as many impressions as possible with the state money and the $5,000 in additional matching funds.
“These are very different uses for tourism grants, but we hope they achieve the same result and that we attract more and more visitors to Salem,” said Carey Harveycutter, Salem tourism director. “We are always grateful to be considered for these grants and thankful to receive them.”
In all, the Virginia Tourism Corporation awarded $625,000 to 104 local tourism programs in matching-grant funds to support expanded travel and visitation within the Commonwealth.
“Tourism has the power to transform communities by creating jobs, supporting small businesses, and sparking pride of place,” said Rita McClenny, president and CEO of Virginia Tourism Corporation. “These grant programs empower our local partners to tell their unique stories, showcase the spirit of their destinations, and invite travelers to experience why Virginia is for Lovers in every season of the year.”
Local governments and business partners committed more than $729,992 to match the state’s grant funding. Those matches generated more than $1.3 million in new marketing initiatives. In total, the programs will benefit 624 tourism partners statewide, including The Lofts at Downtown Salem, which received a $5,000 grant.
“These grants will help destinations and small businesses market themselves more effectively, thrive during the shoulder season, and welcome travelers year-round,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “From small towns to big cities, and from outdoor recreation to cultural and historic treasures, these programs will showcase the very best of Virginia as we build momentum toward the VA250 commemoration.”
-The Salem Times-Register
