Cowlitz County has opened the application window for its 2026–27 Large Grant Program, which supports local projects that draw visitors and encourage overnight stays within the county. The program is administered through Cowlitz County Tourism and aims to strengthen the local economy by investing in events and attractions that increase travel to the region.

According to Cowlitz County Tourism, up to $200,000 in total funding is available this cycle. Grants are open to nonprofit organizations and government entities that can demonstrate how their projects will attract visitors from more than 50 miles away and generate measurable tourism-related benefits, especially in lodging and local business activity.

Eligible uses for funding include new or existing events, improvements to local attractions, or infrastructure projects that enhance visitor experiences over the next two years. Past grant recipients have included festivals, recreation improvements, and cultural events that helped boost local tourism visibility.

Application guidelines and materials are available online through Visit Mt. St. Helens. Printed materials can also be requested by phone at 360‑577‑3137. Completed applications must be submitted to the county no later than 4:30 p.m. on March 25.

The tourism grant program is funded through lodging tax revenues, which are reinvested locally to strengthen Cowlitz County’s destination marketing and visitor support initiatives. County officials say the program helps ensure that tax dollars collected from visitors are returned to projects that keep the region’s tourism economy active and sustainable.

Sources: KLOG News; Cowlitz County Tourism.