The Visit Canton Event Support Grants are currently accepting applications aimed at enhancing visitation and economic impact in Stark County, Ohio. These grants are designed to support major events such as conferences, reunions, meetings, sporting events, tournaments, and complementary festivals. The program's overarching goal is to attract and retain events that will generate significant visitor spending in the region, thereby maximizing the economic benefits associated with these gatherings.

The primary objectives of the Event Support Grant Program include increasing attendance at events that have the potential to draw significant visitor spending and ensuring that the events hosted in Stark County contribute positively to the local economy. The grant period runs from January 1 to December 31, 2025, and projects must demonstrate a minimum economic impact of either 200 hotel room nights or 400 day visitors from outside Stark County. Priority will be given to events occurring from Sunday to Thursday and those that are unique to the area, not found within 90 miles or 90 days of the event date.

Funding from the Event Support Grants can be utilized for various purposes, including facility rentals, hospitality needs, and operational support for events in their first three years of being hosted in Stark County. For-profit organizations may also apply for marketing co-op support starting in their fourth year. Eligible projects can encompass a range of categories, including meetings and conferences, sporting events, special events and festivals, and group tours or tradeshows. Specific examples of eligible expenses include transportation, venue rental, and new marketing initiatives aimed at attracting participants.

Organizations eligible to apply for these grants include event organizers, host organizations, local organizing committees, chapter branches, and sports associations, whether they are non-profit or for-profit entities. The program encourages a diverse range of applicants to ensure a variety of events can be supported, ultimately benefiting the Stark County community.

Applications for the Event Support Grants are accepted on a rolling basis, but they must be submitted at least 60 days prior to the event start date to be considered for funding. This allows the grantor sufficient time to review and process applications. Interested parties can find more information and submit their applications through the Visit Canton website.

The evaluation of applications will be based on criteria that assess the potential economic impact of the proposed events, alignment with the program's goals, and the uniqueness of the events being hosted. The program does not require a matching contribution from applicants, making it accessible for a wide range of organizations. For further inquiries, potential applicants can contact Allison Gromofsky at Visit Canton via email or phone.