LAKE ERIE SHORES & ISLANDS, February 15, 2018 --- Lake Erie Shores & Islands, the Destination Marketing Organization for Erie and Ottawa counties, recently announced grant awards for 2017. In total, nearly $80,000 was awarded to 33 different organizations and event organizers for promotional support.

Sponsorship dollars were awarded to 14 Ottawa County events, including major events such as Put-in-Bay’s first-ever Bash at the Bay and the Port Clinton Walleye Festival. In Erie County, sponsorship grants were awarded to eight different events, including Ohio Bike Week and Milan Chautauqua.

Erie County also awarded Conference Support Grants to 11 organizations to not only aid in promotion but also offset group transportation costs. These grants helped to ensure these groups were able to bring their conferences and events to venues in our region. Groups receiving these funds included Ohio United Postmasters, Ohio Genealogical Society, Cabela’s National Walleye Circuit and more.

“For the last four years, the Ohio Tactical Officers Association hosts the largest state tactical conference and vendor show in the country at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions. This would not be possible without the outstanding staff at Lake Erie Shores & Islands who provide superior services and grant funds to attract attendees and their families to the area,” said Terry Graham of the Ohio Tactical Officers Association.

Peter Huston of the Put-in-Bay Chamber of Commerce added, "The Lake Erie Shores & Islands marketing grant allows us to promote our events to a much wider audience. We were able to share the events via regional print media, digital advertising and even electronic billboards. The net result is a greater attendance and improved brand awareness." 

The Events Grant and Conference Support Grant are available for new and existing community-friendly events that take place in Lake Erie Shores & Islands. The program is designed to assist organizations in attracting quality events that generate overnight stays, create media exposure, increase area economic impact, and generate awareness that Lake Erie Shores & Islands is a year-round destination.

For information on grants available in Ottawa County or to request an application, contact tiffany@shoresandislands.com. For information on Erie County grants or to request an application, contact amanda@shoresandislands.com.

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ABOUT SHORES & ISLANDS OHIO

Shores & Islands Ohio is the Midwest’s favorite getaway. This coastal destination boasts 152 miles of Lake Erie shoreline, the best fishing on the Great Lakes, welcoming communities, rich history, a wine trail, and an abundance of family-friendly attractions. World-famous Cedar Point Amusement Park calls it home, along with Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, other indoor and outdoor water parks, animal parks, sports venues, and more. Visitors enjoy ferries and cruises to Put-in-Bay, Middle Bass, and Kelleys Island. One of the country’s best areas for spring and fall bird migration, the area is overflowing with natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor recreation. More at SHORESandISLANDS.com

Media Contact:

Jill Bauer, Public Relations Manager
Shores & Islands Ohio
Phone: 419.625.9495
Email: jill@shoresandislands.com