Overview
Welcome to the Haywood County Tourism Development Authority’s Tourism Promotion Grant Program. Our mission is to boost tourism and foster economic growth by providing support to projects that attract visitors to Haywood County. Made possible through the use of occupancy tax dollars, these grants are open to eligible not-for-profit organizations, tourism-related groups, and events that aim to bring in out-of-county visitors for unforgettable experiences. The projects should have the potential to drive new and increased visitation while simultaneously enhancing the local quality of life through the positive impact of tourism.
The program offers financial aid for marketing and developing new or existing festivals, events, activities, or attractions. We prioritize initiatives that attract overnight visitors from beyond a 50-mile radius, extend the tourism season, provide exceptional visitor value, and enhance local quality of life.
Definition of “Tourism Promotion” per the State of NC:
To advertise or market an area or activity, publish and distribute pamphlets and other materials, conduct market research, or engage in similar promotional activities that attract tourists or business travelers to the area.
The Tourism Promotion Grant Program contains 3 categories of funding. Advertising & Events have the same documents, while the documents for the Market Research category differ. Visit the linked pages for additional information and documents for each:
2026/2027 Marketing & Communications Plan
Digital Marketing & Communications Plan flip book can be viewed HERE
Destination Target Markets
For your convenience, we have compiled a comprehensive list of the HCTDA’s destination target markets to assist you with your advertising efforts. We understand the importance of reaching the right audience to maximize your advertising impact.
Destination Advertising
Example Advertising Outlets:
Local Paid Advertising: The Mountaineer, Positively Haywood, WPTL Radio.
Outside Haywood Paid Advertising: Smoky Mountain News, 6AM City, Meta (geo-targeted to Visit Haywood primary markets), Blue Ridge Outdoors, Laurel of Asheville, WNC Magazine.
Free Advertising Opportunities: Event listing on VisitHaywood.com, Haywood Holler, The Mountaineer, Smoky Mountain News; create a Facebook event and share to groups, email mailing lists, community bulletin boards, etc.
These are sample outlets and is not intended to be a comprehensive list. A maximum of 25% of advertising spend can be local advertising.
Haywood County Tourism Development Authority 