A new grant program could help bring more festivals, public art, trails and community improvement projects to Moore County.
Visit Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen has announced that $250,000 will be available through its new Tourism Enhancement and Area Marketing grant program for the 2026-27 fiscal year.
The Moore County tourism grants are available to municipalities, government organizations and qualifying nonprofit groups. Individual awards may be worth as much as $25,000, depending on the project and the decision of the grant committee.
What the Tourism Grants Are Designed to Support
The primary goal of the program is to support projects that attract visitors from more than 50 miles away and encourage them to stay overnight in Moore County.
Overnight visitors can generate additional spending at local hotels, restaurants, stores, golf courses and other businesses throughout the Sandhills.
Projects eligible for the Moore County tourism grants may include multi-day festivals, special events and certain elements connected to meetings or conventions.
Funding may also be used for tourism improvements such as wayfinding signs, beautification projects, trails, facility appearance enhancements and approved public art projects.
Tourism leaders are especially interested in projects that support or complement a new advertising campaign expected to launch this fall.
Who Can Apply for Funding?
Eligible applicants include Moore County municipalities, governmental organizations and qualifying nonprofit organizations. Projects must be located within Moore County.
Festivals and multi-day events must also be open to the public. Visitors must be able to attend, participate in or watch the event.
Several types of activities are not eligible for the program. These include political events, religious functions, fundraisers, family reunions and local school programs.
General administrative costs and normal operating expenses are also excluded from the grant program.
Applications Are Due August 28
The application period for the Moore County tourism grants will remain open through August 28, 2026.
A three-member committee made up of Moore County Tourism Development Authority board members will review the applications and determine which projects receive funding.
Tourism officials expect to announce the awards later this year.
Visit Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen President and CEO Phil Werz said the new program expands the types of projects that can be considered. Earlier tourism grant programs were primarily focused on capital projects.
Since 2024, the tourism authority has awarded more than $1.8 million for projects across Moore County.
Potential Impact Across Moore County
The new funding could help communities improve public spaces, create new events and strengthen attractions that encourage people to visit the Sandhills.
A successful festival, trail project or public art installation could benefit more than the organization receiving the money. It may also create additional traffic for nearby businesses and introduce visitors to communities they may not otherwise explore.
Organizations interested in the Moore County tourism grants can review the complete requirements and application information at homeofgolf.com/team-grant.
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