Apply for 2024 Kirkland Tourism Funding by July 24
Published on July 03, 2023
KIRKLAND, Wash. – The Kirkland Tourism Development Committee (TDC) has launched the 2024 Explore Kirkland tourism grant application process, open now through Monday, July 24.
“If you have an idea for an event to host in Kirkland and need a kickstart of funding to make your dream a reality, then please consider applying for a grant through our Explore Kirkland Tourism Program,” said Tourism Development Chair and City Councilmember Toby Nixon. “The Kirkland Tourism Development Committee is proud to support efforts that make Kirkland a special destination to visit and that, in turn, supports our vibrant local businesses.”
The Explore Kirkland Tourism Program grants marketing and operations funds to special events and festivals that demonstrate the ability to attract visitors from over 50 miles away and generate overnight stays. The program supports and promotes events that showcase the city’s best assets while fostering a love of Kirkland, inspiring guests to come back multiple times. The program is funded by the lodging tax collected by Kirkland hotels, motels, and short-term rentals, which enables them all to share in both the costs and the benefits of tourism promotion.
In past years, the program has awarded funding to numerous treasured Kirkland events including the Junior Softball World Series, Kirkland Summerfest, Kirkland Uncorked, Kirkland Oktoberfest, Lake Washington Half Marathon, and many more.
As in years past, the TDC will award a total of up to $60,000 in 2024 event grants. The TDC looks to support events that create a safe, inclusive, and welcoming community, and gives serious consideration to established events with proven track records of bringing visitors to the City.
Event organizers should visit the city’s Tourism Funding webpage for information on grant funding criteria and to access the 2024 online grant application. Applications must be submitted by 5 p.m., Monday, July 24. Questions about the tourism grant application process may be sent to Tourism Program staff at tourism@kirklandwa.gov.
The Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 67.28.180 provides authority for cities to adopt a lodging tax. The City of Kirkland has adopted a 1 percent lodging tax rate and may invest these revenues into events that attract visitors to Kirkland. Kirkland’s Tourism Program has been in operation since 2002. During that time, over $1.2 million has been granted to tourism events and programs. The lodging tax also funds the city tourism web site https://www.explorekirkland.com and other tourism promotion activities.
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