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Proposed Revision to Tourism Development Council Special Event Marketing Grant Program
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BRIEF OVERVIEW
To maximize the impact of support for special events and festivals, staff reviewed the existing grant funding program and evaluated opportunities to enhance the value and effectiveness of the County’s investment. Staff propose to restructure the existing program to a sponsorship program (detailed in the attached documents) that would introduce multiple levels of support based on application scoring, allowing the County to provide valuable marketing expertise, promotional resources, and tools that help events succeed while promoting responsible stewardship of public funds. This approach shifts the focus from direct cash reimbursements to strategic, results-oriented marketing support. The program received approval from the Tourist Development Council (TDC), and it is now being presented to the Board for consideration and approval.
STRATEGIC PLAN INITIATIVES
Supporting and encouraging special events and festivals is in the Tourism Strategic Plan approved by the BOCC.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
There is no financial impact associated with this agenda item.
LEGAL NOTE
The Board is authorized to act on this matter pursuant to Chapter 125, Florida Statutes.
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RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends approval of the TDC Special Event Marketing Sponsorship Program.