The city of Vancouver is accepting grant applications for 2027 tourism-related projects, events, and festivals from Aug. 4 to Sept. 20. According to reporting by Clark County Today, the grants are funded by a four percent lodging tax collected from hotel, motel, and bed and breakfast stays within the city.

The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee will distribute the funds to programs that increase overnight and day-visit tourism. For the 2027 cycle, the committee is prioritizing applications that meet specific criteria, including events held outside the peak summer season of June through August and those located outside of downtown Vancouver. Other priority factors include support for local small businesses, celebrations of diverse or underserved communities, and alignment with climate action goals.

Chris Harder, Vancouver’s Deputy Economic Development Director, stated, “We’re eager to support projects that reflect our values, extend the season, and welcome visitors to our city.” Applications will be evaluated based on alignment with the city’s Strategic Plan Core Values and Visit Vancouver’s Destination Master Plan. Evaluators will also consider factors including seasonality, geography, equity and inclusion, environmental sustainability, uniqueness, and economic impact.

To assist potential applicants, the city will hold an optional virtual Q&A session on Wednesday, Aug. 19, from 10 to 11 a.m. Interested parties can contact Callie Taylor at the city of Vancouver to receive a meeting link. Additionally, Visit Vancouver is offering 30-minute one-on-one consultations to help organizers address visitor-related questions within their applications. Detailed information and application forms are available on the city’s Lodging Tax Grant Program webpage.