Governor Steve Bullock and the Montana Department of Commerce announced the first round of tourism grants under a new program it launched on July 1.
The first round of recipients for the 2016 funds includes a $100,000 building expansion for the Missoula Carousel. Over $2000 is going to the Montana Distiller’s Guild in Butte to help with their website development and the Montana Outfitters and Guides Association will receive $2000 to help promote themselves at trade shows.
Daniel Iverson with Montana Office of Tourism says there is still money to be had.
“This first round did not use all of that pool for this fiscal year. It used just about $720,000 so there’s still money even this fiscal year. If you haven’t applied yet, I would suggest doing so soon because it’s an ongoing process where we are just reviewing applications as they come in.”
The department restructured its former tourism grant programs to be more accessible, flexible and inclusive by combining all the funds into a single $1 million pool and accepting applications year-round instead of requiring set deadlines.
