The Tourist Development Council Grants Program, administered by the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, is designed to support organizations and events that enhance Miami-Dade County's appeal as a tourist destination. This program responds quarterly to applications from entities that sponsor tourist-oriented sports events, cultural events, and television projects. The grants aim to attract tourists from outside the county, encourage overnight stays in local accommodations, and foster growth in the tourism sector. The TDC prioritizes funding for activities that generate significant tourism, particularly during the fourth quarter of the fiscal year, which spans July to September.

The primary objectives of the TDC Grants Program include promoting Miami-Dade County as a vibrant tourist destination and supporting events that have a strong cultural or entertainment component. The TDC seeks to develop existing programs and stimulate new activities that can draw national and international attention. The program is open to various types of organizations, including not-for-profits, local governments, and for-profit entities, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria.

Funding amounts range from $5,000 to $100,000, depending on the total project budget. Organizations with a project budget of $50,000 or less may request up to $5,000, while those with budgets exceeding $250,000 can request up to $35,000. The TDC encourages applicants to utilize local hotels for their events, ensuring that the projects benefit both tourists and residents of Miami-Dade County.

Eligible applicants must be legally incorporated as not-for-profit organizations with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status or as local government entities. For-profit corporations may also apply, but they must have a track record of less than three years in Miami-Dade County. Certain organizations, such as educational institutions and religious organizations, are not eligible to apply. Additionally, projects must be open to the public and have a strong tourism and cultural component.

Submission requirements include proof of incorporation and IRS tax-exempt designation, which must be provided at the time of application. The TDC will review applications based on specific evaluation criteria, including the project's potential to attract tourists and its cultural significance. Organizations that have previously received funding must also demonstrate compliance with grant agreement requirements.

The application deadline for the TDC Grants Program is October 15, 2024. Interested applicants are encouraged to visit the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs website for more information and to ensure they meet all eligibility criteria. For any inquiries, applicants can contact Nikenna Smart-Benjamin at the provided email or phone number.