More than $14.2 million will be awarded to 30 tourism partners through the New York state EDA Tourism Partner Sub-Awards Grant Program.
This federal COVID-19 recovery funding, made available through the U.S. Economic Development Administration, was awarded to New York state to support the post-pandemic recovery of the State’s travel, tourism and outdoor recreation sectors.
Among those receiving fund will be the Capital-Saratoga Region Tourism Association, which will receive $750,000 to highlight outdoor vacation opportunities to new domestic and international audiences, and target meetings and conventions focused on cutting-edge industries.
Empire State Development’s Division of Tourism competitively sub-awarded the funding to Destination Marketing Organizations throughout the state for tourism marketing projects based on the Division’s EDA grant focus areas: outdoor recreation, international tourism, and travel trade including meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions, amateur sports and group travel.
“With our breathtaking views and landscapes, vibrant arts and culture, thriving business community and more, New York is proud to welcome visitors from all over the world to experience what our state has to offer,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said. ”
U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer said the state’s travel and tourism industries “are the beating heart of our state, and this critical funding creates a unique opportunity for the federal government to boost tourism across New York by supporting small businesses, creating jobs, and investing in our local economies.
“The recovery from the pandemic has spurred a newfound demand for travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation throughout the state, and this vital $14.2 million of funding that I pushed to include in the American Rescue Plan will accelerate that economic recovery and allow us to come out of the pandemic even stronger than we were before.”
State Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand said, “Every year, New York draws millions of tourists from across the country and the world. This federal funding will help us attract even more, I thank the EDA for this award and will keep working to bring home more resources to develop our tourism sector.”
U.S. Rep. Paul Tonko said the awards “are a direct result of that careful, impactful planning and will help to further boost the economic strength and vibrancy of our Capital Region and state. I look forward to seeing how these deserving awards further bolster our local economy and benefit residents and visitors alike.”
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said the state “is rebuilding and revitalizing its vibrant and vital tourism industry. The funding from the U.S. Economic Development Administration will help I LOVE NY and other tourism organizations throughout the state promote targeted activities and engage new visitors, supporting tourism’s continued revival.”