Kirkland Accepting Grant Applications For Events That Boost Tourism

KIRKLAND, WA —The Kirkland Tourism Development Committee (TDC) announced Monday that it is accepting grant applications for 2023 projects that help attract visitors to the city.

Applications for the Explore Kirkland Tourism Program will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Aug. 8. Project organizers will present to the TDC later that month, and the TDC will rank the projects and make final funding recommendations in September, according to the city.

The city council will adopt budgets and approve funding in December.

The TDC said it will award a total of $60,000 in 2023 event grants for marketing and operations funds to special events and festivals that demonstrate the ability to attract visitors from over 50 miles away and generate overnight stays.

Last year, the TDC revised the criteria for evaluating proposals to focus on multiday, competitive tournament-style events and new events that promote diversity and inclusivity. The TDC also said it will "give serious consideration" to established events with a proven track record of bringing visitors to the city.

"As we continue to recover from the pandemic shutdowns, we're anxious to return to a full schedule of events in 2023 that will draw guests to our beautiful lakeside community and help support our businesses," said Toby Nixon, the Tourism Development Committee chair and a city councilmember. "We look forward to reviewing the grant applications and continuing to support efforts that make Kirkland a wonderful community to visit."

Kirkland's Tourism Program has been in operation since 2002, and it has awarded $700,000 to tourism events and programs, according to the TDC.

Events that have received funding in the past include: the Junior Softball World Series, Kirkland Summerfest, Kirkland Uncorked, Kirkland Oktoberfest and Celebrate Kirkland, the July 4th event.

The grants are funded by the lodging tax collected by Kirkland hotels, motels and short-term rentals.

Grant information and the 2023 online grant application are available on the city's Tourism Funding webpage. Questions about the tourism grant application process may be sent to Tourism Program staff at tourism@kirklandwa.gov.