Visit Owensboro is set to receive $90,202 in the coming months as a part of statewide tourism funding awarded by Gov. Andy Beshear. Mark Calitri, President/CEO of Visit Owensboro, said the organization plans to use the money to make a positive economic impact on the city.
“The tourism industry has faced incredible challenges over the last two years and these marketing funds are required to be used to help tourism stakeholders recover and create an economic impact,” Calitri said.
Calitri said while these funds are helping with the challenges, it does not replace the funds lost during the pandemic.
Calitri said the state funding has strict rules and guidance on how it can be distributed. It is required to align with the current matching funds program through the Kentucky Department of Tourism and must be deployed strictly in marketing and promotional efforts.
In total, Beshear announced Wednesday that 103 tourism and destination marketing organizations in 88 Kentucky counties will receive a total of $5.3 million in funding.
Members of the General Assembly and local tourism leaders recognize the significant impact this funding will have on tourism in communities throughout the commonwealth.
“Tourism is a major economic engine in my district, and I am grateful that the commonwealth has made this investment in the tourism industry,” said Sen. Matt Castlen of Owensboro. “This additional funding support will play an important role in our efforts to attract more visitors to Western Kentucky.”
Funding awards are based on the respective counties’ share of the 2019 Economic Impact Report.
