The Indiana Dunes Tourism Grant Program supports projects, marketing, and events that promote Porter County, Indiana, as a destination and aim to attract visitors from outside the area. Funded by the Indiana Innkeeper’s Tax, this program provides grants to encourage tourism and boost the local economy through public events, attractions, and community projects that enhance visitor engagement and extend visitor stays. Eligible applicants include for-profit, nonprofit, and government entities based in Porter County, as well as private-sector applications if they demonstrate potential to attract external visitors.

The program includes three grant categories: Community Development Projects (up to $5,000), Events (up to $2,500), and Marketing (up to $2,500). Community Development funding supports new or enhanced tourism amenities or attractions, with a preference for projects involving local partnerships and community support. Event funding prioritizes multi-day events that attract significant out-of-town attendance and encourage overnight stays, though seasonal events are generally ineligible. Marketing grants support promotions aimed at audiences outside of Porter County, including digital ads, print materials, and billboard placements.

Eligible expenses include targeted digital advertising, production of promotional materials for external distribution, website development, billboards, and certain entertainment fees. However, expenses targeting only local residents or covering operational costs, salaries, and non-promotional items (e.g., alcohol, awards, and local signage) are ineligible and must be covered by the applicant if part of their project proposal.

Applications must be complete and submitted by December 1, 2024. Grant recipients are required to display the Indiana Dunes Tourism logo on promotional materials, link to the Indiana Dunes Tourism website, and follow Indiana Dunes’ social media channels. A post-event evaluation, expense report, and supporting documentation must be submitted within 90 days of project completion, or by December 1 of the grant year, to qualify for reimbursement. Reimbursement is processed within 60 days after all requirements are fulfilled, but submissions after 90 days may not be reimbursed.