Heber Valley Chamber announces 2024 Cooperative Marketing Grant recipients
The Heber Valley Chamber, Tourism and Economic Development office has announced the recipients of this year’s Special Event Cooperative Marketing Grant, a initiative aimed at leveraging Wasatch County Transient Room Tax (TRT) to bolster economic development and tourism in Heber Valley.
“The primary objective of this grant program is to attract out-of-county visitors, enhancing tourism expenditures all year long. The TRT funds are designated exclusively for marketing and advertising efforts outside of Wasatch County,” said Dallin Koecher, executive director of the organization.
Koecher said the economic development office received 14 applications this year, awarding grants to 13 projects, resulting in a total disbursement of $70,000. Notably, this amount reflects a $20,000 increase compared to previous years, providing additional support for causes and projects within Heber Valley. Grant money is awarded based on consideration of various criteria, including the ability to increase overnight stays, positive ROI, quality marketing strategy, events held during off-peak seasons and the overall impact on the local community.
Applicants are eligible for a 50 percent match of their total marketing cost. Grants typically range from $500 to $2,500 per applicant. Funds are approved for use on marketing mediums such as broadcast, print, posters, flyers, e-digital platforms and other marketing methods outside of Wasatch County. The 2024 award recipients are the Soldier Hollow Classic Sheepdog Festival; the Soldier Hollow IBU World Cup and Bike Fest; the Heber Valley Red, White & Blue Festival; the Heber Valley Horse Sale; High Valley Arts’ performance of “Fiddler on the Roof;” Fairy Tale Christmas; Intermountain Championships Pow Wow; Simple Treasures Boutique; UBRA Futurity and Open 5D events; Park City Sailing Association Fall Regatta; D1 Sports’ girl’s fast-pitch softball tournament; and the Utah High School Rodeo Association rodeo.