Tourism Capital Grant
Making Haywood a top-tier travel spot
The Tourism Capital Grant supports significant investments in the physical infrastructure and facilities that shape Haywood’s tourism economy. From new trail systems and cultural attractions to major site improvements, this grant funds the kind of long-term projects that both attract more visitors to our destination and enhance quality of life for residents.
Program details
To qualify, projects must have a lifespan of at least 10 years, be located entirely within Haywood County, and align with the Destination Master Plan.
All projects must have a total budget of at least $100,000.
Applicants must provide a 100% match to the grant funding and must show how the 1:1 match will be achieved.
The FY 26-27 application period is now closed. The next cycle opens in late 2026.
What this grant funds
A capital project is a significant investment in physical infrastructure or facilities that bolsters Haywood County’s tourism economy with the potential to attract visitors, enhance the local tourism experience, and contribute to the long-term economic vitality of the region.
Eligible projects must be open to the public and demonstrate:
Projects must have a lifespan of at least ten years.
Projects must have the potential to attract visitors from more than 50 miles outside Haywood County and generate overnight stays.
Projects must align with the strategic pillars and goals outlined in the Haywood County Destination Master Plan.
Expense guidelines
Applicants must follow the public procurement process per NC G.S. §143- 131 or NC G.S. §143-129, and provide proof of bids.
Ineligible expenses
- Projects solely benefitting a single lodging owner or property, or be situated on a lodging property
- Routine maintenance, repairs, or operating costs
- Studies, plans, and feasibility work (see the Tourism Promotion Grant — Market Research category)
- Standard advertising or marketing for individual businesses
- Equipment or improvements with a useful life under 10 years
- Projects that don't include a public-facing tourism component
For the full list of ineligible expenses, please see the grant guidelines.
Application documents
The FY 26-27 application period has closed.
Stay tuned for future grant opportunities.
Grant coaching
Your success is our success. The HCTDA offers individual 30-minute grant coaching sessions each cycle to help applicants talk through their ideas before they apply. Sessions are free and scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis.
The FY 26-27 coaching window has closed.
