PUBLIC NOTICE: 2016 Community Partnership Grant Program for Tourism

It is that time again! Only $20,000 will be distributed to applicants and must meet specific criteria. See packets for all details. 

Overview: The Community Partnership Program (CPP) provides funding for tourism-related projects in local communities that have the ability to 1) increase overnight stays in lodging facilities within Clackamas County, 2) bring visitors into your community from more than 50 miles away to recreate, shop, dine or take in the arts, cultural or historic offerings, and/or 3) entice visitors to linger longer.

The statutory definition of tourism is “economic activity resulting from tourists.” A tourist is defined as “a person who, for business or pleasure, recreation or participation in events related to the arts, heritage or culture, travels from the community in which that person is a resident to a different community that is separate, distinct from and unrelated to the person’s community of residence.”  It further stipulates that the travel be “more than 50 miles from their community of residence or include an overnight stay.”

Funding for this program comes from the County’s 6% transient room tax (TRT) as authorized by state law.   

Objective: CPP grants provide funding for tourism related projects that have the potential to become significant and self-sustaining; that align with the goals and priorities outlined in Clackamas County Tourism and Cultural Affair’s (CCTCA) Business and Master Plans; that align with the community’s updated Tourism Action Plan, and that have an ability to demonstrate a return on investment (overnight stays/visitors from 50 miles away or greater, or increase linger longer).