Porter-based Indiana Dunes Tourism is offering $50,000 in grants to fund community projects, marketing initiatives and unique events.
The grant program aligns with the organization's mission to attract new and repeat visitors to Porter County. The aim is to enhance their stays through the promotion of attractions, marketing efforts and new product development.
The grant application is open. The deadline for submission is Dec. 1. Recipients will be announced Dec. 16. Grants are for fiscal year 2025 for projects running January to December.
Porter County for-profit, non-profit and government organizations, including cities and towns, are eligible. Private-sector applications will also be considered if the project or event attracts visitors from outside Porter County.
“These grants are a vital part of Indiana Dunes Tourism's mission to promote our destination and contribute to our communities,” said Christine Livingston, Indiana Dunes Tourism president and CEO, in a press release. “They are meant to provide local support to enhance visitors' experiences and improve the quality of life for our residents.”
Dustin Ritchea, communications and creative director, said Indiana Dunes Tourism plans to open grant applications every November so community partners have access to the grant dollars for the entire fiscal year.
“We continue to streamline and simplify the grant application process, and we're excited to work with new and returning partners to promote this place we call home,” Ritchea said.
The following types of projects are eligible to apply for the Indiana Dunes Tourism Grant Program:
- Community development projects (maximum request $5,000): Eligible projects include the creation or enhancement of tourism amenities, attractions, facilities and experiences within Porter County that will attract out-of-county visitors and improve the quality of life for residents.
- Events (maximum request $2,500): Eligible events include Porter County festivals, special events, conventions and sports tournaments attracting attendees from outside Northwest Indiana.
- Marketing (maximum request $2,500): The marketing of events or community development projects is eligible if it targets audiences outside of Porter County.
Organizations interested in participating in the 2025 grant program can learn more here.
Indiana Dunes Tourism is the official destination marketing, planning and development organization for the Indiana Dunes area and Porter County.
