Note: The above video aired Nov. 7, 2024 and focuses on the economic impact of tourism in Virginia Beach.

HAMPTON ROADS, Va. (WAVY) — Tourism programs throughout Virginia, including in the Hampton Roads, Western Tidewater and Eastern Shore regions of the state, were recently awarded more than $2 million in matching grant money.

The Virginia Tourism Corporation’s Marketing Leverage Program, Destination Marketing Organization Grant Program and the VA250 Tourism Marketing Program funded the awards.

According to the Virginia Tourism Corporation, the purpose of the grant programs are to pair state money with local tourism marketing campaigns to increase visitation and traveler spending through 2026.

Local partners are committing more than $2.74 million to match the grant funding, which the tourism corporation aid would generate more than $4.76 million in new marketing and event promotion, focused on increasing overnight visitation across the state. It said the tourism marketing would benefit 1,130 small businesses and nonprofits across Virginia.

“Virginia’s tourism industry is a powerful engine of economic opportunity, creating jobs, supporting small businesses, and showcasing the best of every corner of the Commonwealth,” said Gov. Glenn Youngkin in a statement. “These targeted grants are strategic, results-driven investments that foster public-private partnerships to boost local economies and strengthen Virginia’s position as a premier travel destination.” 

See below for a list of all the award winners:

Tourism efforts in Accomack County, Northampton County (Va.), Surry County, Gloucester County, James City County, Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Virginia Beach and Williamsburg were among the region’s award-winners.

The Virginia Tourism Corporation will open additional marketing program grant and sponsorship rounds throughout 2025 and 2026. Anyone wanting to apply for the grant opportunities can go to vatc.org/grants for more information.