Recovery Grants FAQs
We want to make sure you are equipped to submit a competitive grant application so below is a list of frequently asked questions.
Please email grants@traveloregon.com with any additional questions you may have, so we can answer them and add them to this page as a resource for others.
Q: Is there a minimum grant request?
A: No. Travel Oregon will fund small investments (suggested would be at least $500) and all applications will be evaluated under the same criteria.
Q: Can entities apply for more than one project?
A: Yes, more than one application may be submitted. A new application will need to be completed for each individual project.
Q: Do Federal government land managers qualify as eligible applicants?
A: Yes, both Federal and State government entities are eligible applicants.
Q: Can the grant funds be used to reimburse previous expenses? For example, on March 1, 2021 I purchased disposable masks for use by my staff, as well as visitors, in preparation for safe reopening in the next few weeks.
A: No. Unfortunately, the grant funds can only cover expenses that are incurred after the funds are awarded (April 30, 2021). The grant can’t be used to reimburse expenses prior to the April 30 date.
Q: Our volunteer-operated museum does not charge admission, but we do ask for donations to help with our operating costs. Are we eligible to apply for the Ticketed/Paid Events/Attractions category?
A: Yes, you would be eligible to apply as long as you fall into one of the eligible entity categories: local government, port districts, federally-recognized tribes, non-profit entities registered with the Oregon Secretary of State’s Office.
Q: Would printable maps be an eligible expense for wayfinding?
A: The intent around wayfinding projects would be that signage would be permanent (installation of directional signage to parks/attractions/downtown businesses/trailhead signage/markers) or if needed, portable to promote a COVID-19 appropriate experience (directional signage for events/6-foot of distancing signage/mask wearing). Printed materials like a map or brochure don’t fit this intent.
Q: Can you elaborate on eligible garbage and parking management projects?
A: Travel Oregon heard about a number of high-use outdoor visitor experiences this last summer. Installing additional trash/recycling cans or setting up a volunteer garbage collection program at beaches or trailheads are examples of eligible projects. Helping fund a parking fee or permit system that is already in the works are examples of parking management.
Q: Would a destination management organization be able to fund a parklet project for restaurants?
A: Yes, a parklet or outdoor seating / dining area is an eligible project under the Business District / Main Street Improvement category. Projects that directly impact the viability of tourism-related business are eligible. We specifically are seeking projects that connect to a concentration of businesses, such as in a destination’s business district or main street.
Q: Will extensions to the grant timeline be available due to unforeseen weather or fire conditions, updated COVID-19 guidance from the Governor’s office or a delay in permitting?
A: All projects are expected to be completed by Nov. 30, 2021. Unforeseen delays based on natural or environmental factors or restrictions/recommendations from the State of Oregon will need to be clearly explained to Travel Oregon for consideration of a project extension/change of scope. No extensions will be allowed based on issues such as organizational capacity or permitting delays.