Press release from the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority:
BUNCOMBE COUNTY TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
INVITES APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2025
TOURISM PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT FUND GRANT CYCLEAs our community continues to recover from the impact of Hurricane Helene, the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority recognizes the importance of resilience and renewal in these challenging times. In the wake of such hardship, we are more committed than ever to fostering economic recovery and revitalization through strategic investments that support our local economy.
The Tourism Product Development Fund (TPDF) is one such opportunity that can help rebuild and enhance our tourism infrastructure, bringing new visitors and economic vitality to Buncombe County. This funding will continue to drive impactful projects that help our community recover and thrive, now and in the future.
Since the fund’s inception in 2001, the authority has provided more than $86 million in 41 community projects. Funded projects have included support for greenways, parks, public art, sports and recreation facilities, cultural heritage institutions, and other family attractions. A list of all TPDF investments can be found here.
The fund is derived from one-third of the lodging tax paid by visitors who stay overnight in Buncombe County in commercial lodging facilities, including hotels, vacation rentals, and bed-and-breakfast inns. Due to the 2024 cycle being postponed, the authority estimates $15 million will be available for TPDF investments this year.
We invite Buncombe County-based non-profit and government organizations to submit applications for this year’s TPDF cycle, with the belief that these investments will play a critical role in rebuilding, reconnecting, and strengthening our economy.
Submit a Project for the 2025 TPDF Cycle
TPDF 2025 Cycle Schedule
- April 7 | TPDF Phase 1 Application Opens
- April 10 | TPDF Information Session
- May 7 | TPDF Phase I Application Closes
- May 28 | Phase I Applicants Notified and Invited to Phase II
- August 1 | Phase II Application Closes
- Month of August–September | Project Presentations
- Month of August–September | Project Site Visits
- October 29 | Funding Recommendations Presented to BCTDA Board
Register for the 2025 TPDF Info Session on April 10
More information on the TPDF grant process, evaluation criteria, and FAQs can be found in the Program Guidelines. The BCTDA will also host an information session on April 11, 3–4 p.m. at Explore Asheville’s offices located at 27 College Place.
Register for the 2025 TPDF Info Session
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