HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) has announced the opening of its $6 million Marketing to Attract Tourists Program. This initiative aims to enhance tourism across the state by promoting overnight stays and attracting visitors from national, regional, and international markets to explore Pennsylvania’s diverse attractions.
Tourism serves as a key driver of Pennsylvania’s economy, generating over $76 billion annually and supporting more than 486,000 jobs. DCED Deputy Secretary of Tourism Anne Ryan emphasized the program’s significance in creating new opportunities for residents and businesses. “The Shapiro Administration recognizes that tourism benefits nearly every corner of our Commonwealth. The Marketing to Attract Tourists Program will create demand for new visitor experiences, destinations, and events that in turn will give Pennsylvanians more opportunities to pursue their passion, support their families, and thrive,” she stated.
The program is open to organizations focused on showcasing Pennsylvania as a premier destination and is divided into three key grant categories:
- The Great American Getaway Co-Op: For businesses and destination marketing organizations collaborating to develop unique travel experiences around outdoor recreation, culinary tourism, cultural history, or urban exploration.
- Secure More in Sports: For entities aiming to attract youth, amateur, or professional sporting events to Pennsylvania, promoting extended overnight stays. Grants may fund marketing efforts, bid fees, and event-related expenses.
- Big Stage Events: For organizations seeking to host large-scale events, such as major concerts, conventions, or conferences, which bring significant visitor traffic. Funding can cover costs such as venue rentals, transportation, and promotional efforts.
Pennsylvania is uniquely positioned as a weekend getaway destination, with verdant state parks, vibrant cities, and rich cultural sites all within a four-hour drive for over 73 million people along the East Coast. The program aims to capitalize on this proximity by generating fresh demand for travel experiences across the state.
Eligible organizations can apply online, and officials anticipate this funding will drive economic growth by fostering new visitor initiatives and creating opportunities for local communities tied to the tourism industry.
The program aims to leverage Pennsylvania’s rich historical, cultural, and natural assets to remain competitive as a top-tier travel destination. By investing in tourism, the initiative ensures sustained economic benefits and new pathways for growth across the Commonwealth.
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