2026 Tourism GAP Grant (Grant Assistance Program)

2026 Tourism GAP Grant

Geographic Scope: Belmont County, Ohio

Program Purpose: These grants help "fill in the gap" by financially assisting non-profit organizations with events, projects, improvements, or maintenance to a tourist attraction or historical site that enhances travel and tourism in Belmont County.

Eligibility

• Applicant Type: Local non-profit organizations only
• Key Requirement: The event or attraction must generate tourism in Belmont County
• Limitation: Requesting organizations are limited to one grant application and award per year

Award Details

• Available Funds: $110,000 total (as of 2026)
• Award Criteria: Grants are awarded based on available funds and at the discretion of the Belmont County Tourism Board of Directors
• Primary Consideration: Projects with the greatest potential for positive economic impact for overnight tourism will receive primary consideration

Use of Funds

• Grant money must be spent for the purpose requested on the application
• Promotional materials produced for funded events should include the Belmont County Tourism logo

Contact Information

• Phone: 740-695-4359
• Email: jpugh@visitbelmontcounty.com
• Address: Belmont County Tourism Council, 67800 Mall Ring Road, Ohio Valley Mall Unit #485, St. Clairsville, OH 43950
• Office Location: Applications also available at the tourism office at Ohio Valley Mall

Quote: "Many of the recipients would not be able to continue with their community event or attraction if it weren't for this grant," - Jackee Pugh, Executive Director

Timeline

1. Application Deadline: March 6th (for 2026 cycle)
2. Award Notification: Grants will be awarded to qualifying recipients by March 31st

How to Obtain Application

1. Applications have been mailed to previous applicants
2. Applications available online at www.visitbelmontcounty.com
3. Applications can be picked up at the Belmont County Tourism Council office located at Ohio Valley Mall

Submission

1. Complete the application form (2026_GAP-GrantApplication available)
2. Return application to the Belmont County Tourism Council by March 6th

Required Information

• Purpose of event or project
• Description of how the project/event enhances tourism in Belmont County
• Budget and funding needs
• Evidence that organization is a non-profit
• Explanation of tourism generation

Award Disbursement

• Grant money will be awarded and disbursed by March 31st