Though Nevada is known for the bright lights of the Las Vegas strip and Reno, it is also a beacon of rural and natural beauty. The Nevada Commission on Tourism (NCOT) hosts a Marketing Grant Program, which provides financial assistance to rural regions of Nevada. The grant focuses on marketing for the rural communities to encourage tourists to come from all around for overnight visits and vacations. Grants are awarded twice a year. The amount given varies, but the NCOT usually requires that the recipient matches the award.
The Arizona Office of Tourism (AOT) manages the Rural Tourism Development Grant Program (RTDGP). The purpose of the RTDGP is to give Arizona rural areas funding to spur tourism. The award focuses on encouraging regional rural economies through increased tourism. The grant depends on the Office of Tourism for funding, and the amount can vary depending on the financial year. For example, the AOT gave out approximately $500,000 in RTDGP funds in 2006, but only about $462,000 in 2009.
The North Carolina Tourism Matching Funds Grant Program gives financial aid to promote tourism in rural North Carolina communities. The goal is to encourage economic development in rural regions by providing assistance to organizations and businesses that foster regional tourism. The grant focuses specifically on marketing areas as tourist attractions and destinations. The program requires the award recipient to match whatever funds the grant provides, so the funding amount can vary.
