Corpus Christi Tourism Grant

A: The purpose of the grant is to provide financial support to eligible businesses that offer a unique and compelling visitor experience in Corpus Christi, and thereby increase tourism in the city. 

A: Businesses that offer a visitor experience in Corpus Christi, such as tours, attractions, museums, galleries, restaurants, and other businesses that cater to tourists. Both existing and new businesses are eligible to apply with higher priority going to new and recently started businesses. 

A: The number of grants awarded will depend on the number of eligible applications received and the availability of funds. The total funds available for the program year are $50,000. 

Applicants seeking funding must submit an application online using the Corpus Christi Tourism Grant application. Applications from the preceding quarter will be reviewed by the Executive Leadership Team and considered during quarterly review periods in October, January, April, and July.

A: Yes, the grant is a matching grant. This means the business must match the grant amount with its own funds or in-kind contributions. 

A: Eligible businesses can apply for the grant program by completing an online application form on the Visit Corpus Christi website and submitting the completed application form to admin@visitcorpuschristi.com.

Some examples of visitor-facing experiences that an existing business could apply for are: 

1. Developing a guided tour or audio tour that provides visitors with an immersive and engaging experience. For instance, a walking tour that highlights the history and unique features of a local neighborhood or attraction. 

2. Creating a new interactive experience or exhibit at an existing attraction that increases visitor engagement and enhances their experience. For instance, adding a virtual reality experience or interactive game.  

Overall, the key is to identify projects that will have a lasting impact on the visitor experience, while still being feasible within the budget and resources available. 

A: Eligible businesses must be registered with the City of Corpus Christi and provide a detailed project proposal outlining the intended use of the grant funds, including a budget and timeline for the project. New businesses must have a business plan and a clear strategy for attracting tourists to their business. 

A: Applications will be evaluated based on the quality of the visitor experience offered by the business, the feasibility and impact of the proposed project, the ability of the business to successfully implement the project, and the potential to increase tourism in Corpus Christi. 

A: Applicants seeking funding must submit an application online using the Corpus Christi Tourism Grant application. Applications from the preceding quarter will be reviewed by the Executive Leadership Team and considered during quarterly review periods in: October, January, April, July.

A: Successful grant recipients will be required to submit a final report on the project, including an evaluation of its impact on the visitor experience in Corpus Christi, a financial report, and a narrative report detailing the successes and challenges faced during the project. 

If you have any further questions, please contact Visit Corpus Christi for more information.