
Applications for Brownsville tourism funding from nonprofits sought
May 21—The city of Brownsville Convention and Visitors Bureau is inviting local, nonprofit organizations to apply for Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) funds to promote tourism in the city.
The city said it's part of the CVB's "annual collaboration with local organizations to market and promote Brownsville as a visitor's destination." The HOT revenue it generated by hotel bookings in Brownsville. Every dollar awarded must "directly enhance and promote tourism and the convention and hotel industry within the city," according to the CVB.
To be eligible, applicants' projects must fall into one of several categories, including "funding the establishment, improvement or maintenance of a convention center of visitor information center; paying the administrative costs for facilitating convention registration; paying for advertising, solicitations and promotions that attract tourists and convention delegates to the city or its vicinity; expenditures that promote the arts."
Categories also included involve "funding historical restoration or preservation programs; funding the enhancement or upgrading of existing sports facilities or sports fields; funding transportation systems for tourists; signage directing tourists to sights and attractions that are visited frequently by hotel guests."
Those interested in applying for HOT funds are encouraged to attend one of two HOT educational workshops the CVB has scheduled for June 9 at the CVB complex, 1312 E. Adams St. in Brownsville. The workshops are scheduled for 9-11 a.m. and 2-4 p.m. on that day.
June 22 is the deadline to apply for HOT funds.
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