Tourism-focused organizations and businesses in Yates County can now apply for the next round of local grant funding aimed at attracting more visitors to the area.
County officials announced that the Yates County Tourism Grant Program is accepting applications for the second round of 2026. The updated schedule is designed to better match project timelines, giving applicants more flexibility when planning events and initiatives.
Eligible applicants include organizations, municipalities, and businesses with projects that promote tourism and draw visitors to the county.
Officials say the application process has also been revised this year to make it clearer and easier to complete. All applicants must use the new 2026 application form, which is now available online.
Tourism grants are funded through the county’s occupancy tax, collected from overnight stays at local lodging establishments. That revenue is then reinvested into projects intended to enhance visitor experiences, increase non-resident travel, and strengthen the local tourism economy.
Funding recommendations are reviewed by the Yates County Tourism Advisory Committee, a volunteer group of tourism professionals and community stakeholders that advises the Yates County Legislature. After evaluating applications, the committee makes recommendations as part of the county’s annual budget process.
The deadline to apply for this round of funding is Friday, April 10, 2026.
Applications and full guidelines are available at YatesNY.com or on the county website.
For questions or help with an application, applicants can contact the Yates County Tourism Promotion Agency by email at [email protected] or by calling 315-536-3111.
