The Mitchell County Tourism Development Authority (TDA) is excited to announce the relaunch of its Event Marketing Grant Program, designed to support local festivals and attract new tourism-driving events. Originally launched in 2024, the program was disrupted due to Hurricane Helene and the community’s subsequent recovery efforts. Now, with double the funding available, the program is back. The TDA will award up to $12,000 in total marketing grants to festivals and events that drive overnight stays to Mitchell County. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and are reviewed monthly until funds are fully awarded.
“We’re thrilled to bring this grant back with even more money allocated,” said Kelly Jones, Director of Mitchell County TDA. “We especially want to support longstanding local festivals and encourage the creation of new events in our slow season — from January through early April — to help boost tourism during those quieter months.”
Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and local event organizers. Funds must be used exclusively for marketing efforts such as digital and print advertising, broadcast media, or professional promotion services. Higher priority will be given to events occurring in the off-season months of January through March, and all funded events must take place within Mitchell County before the end of the fiscal year. To apply, organizers must submit: A current-year event budget A marketing plan An EIN or nonprofit tax ID Recipients will be required to use the TDA logo and branding on all promotional materials and to report on the event’s attendance and visitor origin data after its completion. The TDA aims to support both heritage-rich community traditions and new, creative event ideas that showcase Mitchell County’s unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Applications, full guidelines and grant materials can be found at www.discovermitchellnc.com/grants.
