The Central Oregon Future Fund Grants Program, managed by Visit Central Oregon, supports tourism-related projects that enhance the region’s economy. The program focuses on projects in three areas: Stewardship, Cultural Tourism, and Access Adventure, aiming to create, protect, or preserve tourism assets, and improve accessibility and inclusivity. The fund encourages projects that benefit both residents and visitors, particularly those that align with sustainability, cultural preservation, and community engagement.

Eligible applicants include non-profit entities, private businesses, federally recognized tribal entities, and municipalities in Central Oregon (Deschutes, Jefferson, Crook, and Southern Wasco counties). Projects must be new or enhanced and demonstrate community support through letters of endorsement. Ineligible applicants include those with recent financial discrepancies or past grant non-compliance. Priority points are awarded for projects during the non-peak season and those with at least 10% cash match funding.

The grant offers funding between $10,000 and $50,000, with a total of $280,000 available for the FY24-25 cycle. The application opens on January 6, 2025, and closes on February 14, 2025. Applicants must submit a detailed project plan, budget, and timeline, and demonstrate the long-term sustainability of their projects. Successful applicants will be notified by April 4, 2025, and grants will be disbursed by May 1, 2025.

Applications are evaluated based on alignment with program goals, the project's impact on tourism, and collaboration with local partners. Reports on project progress and completion are required. Projects must adhere to Visit Central Oregon’s marketing guidelines, including the use of its logo on materials.

For questions, contact grants@visitcentraloregon.com.