Visit Keweenaw launches $100,000 fund to sponsor local events and festivals

What’s happening: Visit Keweenaw has launched a new Community Events Sponsorship Program, establishing a $100,000 fund to support local public gatherings across Houghton and Keweenaw counties. This initiative aims to streamline the application process for event organizers while funding experiences that highlight the region’s natural, historic, and cultural assets.

About the program: The program is completely funded by assessments collected from Visit Keweenaw lodging members, plowing tourism dollars directly back into the local economy. Grants will target three major categories: outdoor recreation and trail events, cultural and heritage celebrations, and community seasonal festivals. Financial priority is given to sustainable proposals that drive overnight stays, increase local merchant spending, and promote travel during winter or shoulder seasons.

What they’re saying: “Our local events are a huge part of what makes the Keweenaw such an incredible place to live and visit,” said Brad Barnett, executive director of Visit Keweenaw. Barnett noted that reinvesting lodging dollars helps planners launch and elevate experiences that bring energy to area downtowns and support small businesses.

What’s next: Event organizers can access eligibility criteria, guidelines, and application materials online at visitkeweenaw.com/events/sponsorships/. For non-event infrastructure projects like accessibility improvements or placemaking, nonprofits are directed to apply to the organization’s separate Destination Development Fund.