Deadline for VCC applications looms

SDN Logo copy.jpg [1]

By CARL SMITH
sdnnews@bellsouth.net [2]

Local non-profit entities have one more day to submit applications for tourism-seeding funding.

The end of business hours Friday marks the deadline for Starkville’s Visitors and Convention Council Sponsorship Program applications. The program is a reimbursement effort which helps fund new projects and events in an effort to establish them as permanent self-sustaining, tourist-attracting events. Approximately $50,000-$60,000 is available for grants in the coming fiscal year.

Jennifer Gregory, Greater Starkville Development Partnership vice president for tourism, said application submissions are “on track” and the organization looks forward to supporting tourism partners in the community.

Organizations are eligible for up to three years of support, and continuing funding is available to those events and programs deemed to have impacted the local community. Organizations with proven success then have an opportunity to become a VCC-sponsored tourism partner.
All awarded projects must be competed one year following Oct. 1.
Gregory said the VCC considers projects which enhance Starkville’s quality of life and entice tourists to town. Considered projects range from tourist events to infrastructure requests, she said.

Last year’s grant recipients include the Oktibbeha County Heritage Museum, Starkville Area Arts Council, Starkville Central Neighborhood Foundation, Starkville-MSU Symphony, the Mississippi Horse Park, Starkville Rotary Club, Starkville Soccer Association, Mississippi State University’s Mitchell Memorial Library and Starkville Tennis Association.