Tourism Grant Program

Geographic Scope: Highlands, North Carolina

Overview:
Visit Highlands, NC supports local nonprofit organizations through its Tourism Grant Program. The grants are funded by occupancy taxes collected from guests staying in Highlands' accommodations.

Eligible Applicants:

• Local nonprofit organizations
• Cultural institutions
• Community event organizers

Focus Areas:
Grants support programming that:

• Enriches the cultural fabric of Highlands
• Attracts visitors throughout the year
• Supports arts, culture, and community engagement
• Enhances quality of life for residents and visitors

Award History:
Recent grant recipients (FY 2025-2026) include:

• Episcopal Church of the Incarnation
• Highlands Performing Arts Center
• Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival
• Mountain Theatre Company
• Mountaintop Rotary

Total distributed: $420,110.00 (fiscal year-to-date as of February 27, 2026)

Review Process:
A committee comprised of volunteers and staff reviews grant applications and recommends approval to the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC Board of Directors.

Contact Information:

• Email: grants@highlandschamber.org
• Phone: 828-526-5841
• Website: https://www.highlandschamber.org/chamber/grants-sponsorship/

Application Process

1. Review Guidelines: Obtain and review the Guidelines for Tourism Grants
2. Complete Application: Fill out the Tourism Grant Application form
3. Submit Application: Email completed application to grants@highlandschamber.org
4. Post-Award Requirement: Submit required Tourism Grant Post Report after project completion

Required Materials:

• Completed Tourism Grant Application
• Tourism Grant Post Report (after award)

Submission Format:

• Electronic submission via email to grants@highlandschamber.org