A fantastic opportunity is opening up this week for local event coordinators, entrepreneurs, and community groups looking to bring fresh ideas to life in Albany. Starting Wednesday, July 1st, the City of Albany is officially accepting applications for its annual Collaborative Tourism Promotion (CTP) Grant program, offering a total funding pool of $50,000 to jumpstart creative local initiatives.
Managed by the city’s Tourism Advisory Committee, the program is specifically designed to support new events, unique marketing campaigns, and “placemaking” installations that draw visitors into town, boost the local economy, and highlight Albany as a vibrant destination.
What Types of Projects Qualify?
The grant program targets a wide range of creative, tourism-boosting endeavors. Some of the major eligible categories include:
- New Events and Additions: Start-up funding for brand-new local festivals, sports tournaments, or community gatherings, as well as expansions or new features for successful existing events.
- Placemaking & Public Art: Beautification initiatives that give the city unique character, including public murals, statues, gateway signs, or historic downtown enhancements.
- Marketing & Promotions: Funding to design and launch fresh digital marketing campaigns, tourism websites, or social media promotions aimed at attracting out-of-town visitors.
- Conventions & Trade Shows: Travel and logistical expenses tied directly to securing or hosting regional conventions, trade shows, or corporate gatherings within the city.
How the Funding Works
The grant money is generated directly from Albany’s Transient Lodging Tax (TLT), which is collected from out-of-town visitors staying in local hotels, motels, and short-term rentals. This means tourism revenue is being directly reinvested right back into enhancing our city’s culture and economy.
Approved funds are distributed on a reimbursement basis as the project hits its milestones, and the grants are intended to provide a helpful initial boost rather than a continuous, year-over-year operational fund.
Application Details
- Application Window: July 1 through September 1, 2026 (Closes at 11:59 p.m.)
- Where to Apply: Proposals must be submitted to Jennifer Wehr, Economic Development Program Coordinator, at Albany City Hall.
- The Pitch: As part of the competitive process, applicants are invited to attend a Tourism Advisory Committee meeting to briefly share their vision, describe how the project benefits the Albany business community, and answer quick questions.
Whether you are dreaming of creating a massive new downtown street festival, designing a vibrant neighborhood mural, or launching a marketing push to spotlight our local dining scene, this grant program provides the ideal launching pad.
To download the application guidelines and review vendor quote requirements, visit the official City of Albany Collaborative Tourism Promotion Grant page.
