Applications accepted until 5 p.m. on October 15

information released, LCN file photo

The Chelan County Lodging Tax Advisory Committee is calling for events and marketing projects that may be suitable for financial support via lodging tax dollars. Applications for 2024 projects are available beginning Sept. 1 on the Chelan County website: www.co.chelan.wa.us.

Lodging taxes, sometimes called hotel/motel funds, are taxes levied on lodging businesses, including hotels and short-term rentals. Each year, the advisory committee gives away a portion of the lodging tax dollars collected in the unincorporated areas of Chelan County. This year, a total of $280,000 is available to successful applicants for events and marketing projects in 2024.

Applicants must show they can increase tourism and convention activity in Chelan County, boost overnight stays or retail sales, and impact the county’s economy. Applicants have until 5 p.m. on Oct. 15 to hand in the online application and required materials.

The advisory committee shares these tips to help make your application more successful:

  1. Don’t miss the deadline. No applications will be accepted after Oct. 15.
  2. Because the application is submitted online, it cannot be saved. The committee suggests applicants first read through the application and then gather material and answers before starting it online. Or, save your answers in a Word document and cut and paste into the application.
  3. Don’t forget to submit your budget. Your budget must show the use of your organization’s and the county’s matching funds.
  4. The advisory committee may ask for more information, or a 10-minute presentation before the committee. Applicants will be notified if this is necessary.
  5. This is not the application period for capital requests. That application period is open Feb. 1 to March 15, 2024.

For full details, including the application, go to bit.ly/3sr6wqn.