Portland, Oregon – The Oregon Tourism Commission, officially known as Travel Oregon, has announced a significant financial commitment aimed at bolstering the state’s tourism infrastructure and enhancing visitor experiences. Through its 2024-25 Competitive Grants Program, the commission has awarded nearly $6.2 million to 65 projects located statewide. This substantial funding is strategically directed towards two primary goals: cultivating exceptional visitor experiences that showcase the unique character of Oregon, and concurrently, working to significantly improve access and inclusion for historically underserved communities across the state. The grants reflect a concerted effort to not only attract visitors but to ensure that Oregon is a welcoming and accessible destination for everyone, regardless of background or ability.
Expanding Access and Enhancing Experiences
The 2024-25 Competitive Grants Program was meticulously designed to support initiatives proposed by a broad base of local entities. Eligible recipients included local governments, port districts, federally recognized Tribes, and registered non-profit entities, acknowledging the crucial role these bodies play in developing and managing tourism assets at the community level. The 65 projects selected for funding span a wide array of focus areas, reflecting the diverse opportunities and challenges within Oregon’s tourism sector. Key areas targeted by this funding include the development and enhancement of adaptive trails, designed to make outdoor recreation more accessible; support for diverse and inclusive outdoor pursuits, encouraging participation from all communities; and the vital preservation and enhancement of cultural heritage programs, which share the rich history and traditions of Oregon’s peoples.
Spotlight on Funded Projects
Illustrating the scope and impact of the program, several specific projects highlight the diverse nature of the funded initiatives. Support has been allocated to the Bonneville Dam Hatchery, an important site for understanding Oregon’s salmon and steelhead populations and their conservation. A grant of $125,000 has been awarded to the National Forest Foundation for the accessible redesign of the Fish Creek Day Use Area. This project is a direct effort to remove physical barriers, ensuring that more people, including those with disabilities, can enjoy the natural beauty of the National Forest.
Culturally significant projects also received notable support. $145,900 is earmarked for the creation of a unique glass Teepee at the Kah-Nee-Ta Hot Springs Resort, a project developed in collaboration with the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. This initiative serves to enhance the cultural offerings at a prominent resort while supporting Tribal engagement in tourism development. Furthermore, Oregon Adaptive Sports has been granted $60,000 specifically to expand their successful adaptive paddling programs, enabling individuals with diverse abilities to participate in kayaking and other water sports on Oregon’s lakes and rivers. These examples underscore the program’s commitment to both recreational enhancement and cultural representation.
Strategic Vision for a Welcoming State
Todd Davidson, CEO of Travel Oregon, emphasized the strategic vision underpinning the grant awards. He stated that the funding “will build upon existing travel experiences and help remove barriers to make Oregon more welcoming to all.” This statement highlights Travel Oregon’s commitment not just to traditional tourism marketing but to active investment in the infrastructure and programming that makes the state’s natural wonders, cultural sites, and recreational activities genuinely accessible and enjoyable for a broader audience, fostering a more inclusive tourism economy.
Sustained Investment and Future Outlook
This current wave of funding contributes to a significant cumulative investment history by Travel Oregon. Since the 2024-25 Competitive Grants Program’s inception, Travel Oregon has strategically invested a total exceeding $26 million in projects implemented statewide. This long-term financial commitment underscores the organization’s sustained effort to develop, preserve, and improve tourism assets across Oregon. The 65 projects funded in this 2024-2025 cycle are operating within a specific timeframe, with all supported initiatives slated for completion by the deadline of November 3, 2026. This timeline ensures accountability and the timely delivery of the intended benefits to communities and visitors.
Conclusion
The allocation of nearly $6.2 million through the Travel Oregon Competitive Grants Program represents a pivotal investment in the future of Oregon’s tourism landscape. By strategically supporting a diverse portfolio of 65 projects across the state, Travel Oregon is actively working to not only create exceptional visitor experiences but also to significantly improve access and inclusion. These initiatives, ranging from enhancing natural areas for accessibility to supporting cultural projects and adaptive sports, reinforce Travel Oregon’s dedication to making the state’s abundant attractions available and welcoming to everyone. The program’s continued investment solidifies Oregon’s position as a forward-thinking destination committed to equitable and sustainable tourism development.
