Waynesboro plans to advertise heavily in Baltimore and Richmond in an effort to encourage overnight tourism stays to the city.
Waynesboro Tourism received a $20,000 grant to support its “A Getaway Worth Staying For” campaign which will be advertised on Connected TV, digital out-of-home and target banner ads.
The initiative directly supports small businesses and attractions making the case for Waynesboro as a weekend destination for visitors seeking outdoor adventure, urban attractions, art and culture and a craft beverage scene.
Waynesboro partners listed in the grant are Common Wealth Crush, The Foundry, Waynesboro Parks and Recreation, Basic City Beer Co. and Destination Downtown Waynesboro.
The grant is part of Virginia Tourism Corporation’s Destination Marketing Organization program. VTC awarded more than $2 million in matching grant funds to 197 local tourism programs across the Commonwealth.
“These funds will allow us to reach new audiences and encourage extended stays, bringing a direct economic impact to our small businesses, restaurants, lodging partners and attractions,” said Meghan Swanson, marketing communications manager for Waynesboro Economic Development & Tourism. “We’ve seen strong growth in both Richmond and Baltimore visitation, and this final push helps us convert those markets to overnight visitors.
The grant programs are designed to pair state funds with local tourism marketing campaigns to increase visitation and traveler spending through 2026. The tourism marketing should benefit 1,130 small businesses and nonprofits statewide.
“Tourism is a unifying force that strengthens communities, fuels small businesses and supports jobs across the Commonwealth,” said Rita McClenny, president and CEO of Virginia Tourism Corporation. “These grant programs empower our local partners to share the stories, experiences, and destinations that make Virginia such a special place to visit. We are proud to support this important work and to extend the impact of the Virginia is for Lovers brand through these collaborative efforts.”
Organizations and businesses that are interested in applying for grant opportunities may visit vatc.org/grants for more information.
Other local projects receiving VTC grants
- Harrisonburg Tourism and Visitor Services: $20,000
- Tom Tom Foundation: $15,000
- Visit Staunton, Step Off the Bus: $10,000
- Nelson County Tourism: $10,000
- Charlottesville-Albemarle VA 250, Podcast: $10,000
- Visit Staunton, Make it Magic: $9,100
- Russell Museum: $8,000
- Love Ridge Mountain Lodging: $5,600
- Crozet Winter Brews Festival: $3,600
- Lime Kiln Arts: $3,497
- Foxfield Racing: $3,239
- Friends of Downtown Charlottesville: $2,000
- Indigo House: $2,000
- Augusta County Historical Society: $850
A full list of grant recipients can be found here.
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Crystal Graham
