Renton Offering Grants For Events That Increase Tourism In The City

RENTON, WA —The city of Renton has announced it is accepting applications for the second round of Lodging Tax Grants, which help fund events that increase tourism within the city.

The events must take place in 2022, but do not need to be held within Renton city limits.

"However, the events must show measurable drive-in tourism within city limits," according to organizers.

Projects will get priority, according to organizers, if they will increase tourism in the form of overnight stays, promote Renton to potential tourists outside the city or will result in documented economic benefit for the city.

Examples of events that could receive the funds, according to the city are: a film festival, sporting events, farmers market, tours and conferences.

The grants are funded by Washington state's Hotel-Motel Tax, which is collected on all in-city lodging stays of less than 30 days.

According to the organizers of the grants, the amount of money available depends on the estimated amount of Lodging Tax Funds that will be collected in the coming year as provided by the city's finance office.

Grant applications are available online and are due by 4:30 p.m. on Friday May 13. Organizations may apply for multiple events.

Finalists then will present their proposals to the city's Lodging Tax Advisory Committee via Zoom on May 24. The committee will make its final recommendations to the Renton City Council in June.