In an effort to enhance tourism in Summit County, the Akron/Summit Convention & Visitors Bureau has awarded 16 Summit County businesses with the 2023 Desination Development Grant Program, with a total of $50,000 awarded! Many of the great businesses we have partnered with over the last decade on this blog and we couldn’t be more pleased.
The goal of these grants is to increase tourism in our beautiful county. This includes:
1.) Increase overnight stays in Akron/Summit County
2.) Promote a positive image and increase visibility of Akron/Summit County attractions
3.) Increase expenditures by visitors to Akron/Summit County
4.) Provide programs and activities beneficial to attracting additional tourists
“With a diverse array of submissions, determining this year’s recipients required an especially close review of each for adherence to the program criteria,” states Gregg Mervis, CVB President & CEO. “We’re very excited to do our part in supporting our hospitality industry partners’ goals, objectives and projects, as their efforts sustain our vibrant visitor economy. We extend our thanks and appreciation to all of the applicants for their work in making our community the wonderful place we call home,” Mervis adds.
2023 Grantees are listed below – with links to our reviews of these businesses
Akron Art Museum, Akron Children’s Museum, Akron History Center, Akron Marathon Race Series, Akron Zoo, ArtsNow, Community Improvement Corporation of Cuyahoga Falls, Global Ties Akron, International Soap Box Derby, Kaulig Companies Championship, Magical Theatre Company, Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, Summit Artspace, Summit County Historical Society of Akron Ohio, The Nightlight Cinema, and Western Reserve Playhouse.
“The grant monies will help underwrite an incredibly important project upon which we are about to embark,” states Nicole Mullet, ArtsNow executive director. “This year is dedicated to creating a photo library of the amazingly-diverse arts and cultural offerings across Summit County, along with capturing the beautifully-diverse audience members who appreciate and celebrate the arts,” Mullet adds.
