The Quad City Botanical Center will host Sunday Funday at Night from 7 to 9 p.m. July 5 at the center, 2525 4th Ave., Rock Island.
A new $10 million grant program has the potential to boost new and existing tourist attractions in the Illinois Quad-Cities.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity announced the start of the Tourism Attractions and Festivals Grant program which aims to revitalize the Illinois’ tourist industry that suffered during the pandemic. The program is funded through federal dollars from the American Rescue Plan Act.
“This investment announced today will further possibilities for communities to leverage and invigorate their respective destinations and tourism marketing efforts,” said Dave Herrell, chair of the Illinois Council of Convention and Visitor Bureaus and president of Visit Quad Cities, in an Aug. 10 news release.
Businesses can apply for grants between $10,000 to $1 million to improve or expand upon events or facilities that would occur or be used during this year or the next. Applications are received and accepted on a rolling basis with awards being made quarterly until the funds are depleted.
The grants can be used for capital improvements, equipment, training, transportation, housing, receptions, entertainment, photography, temporary housing, and interpretive programs. In order to secure the grant, applicants must clearly demonstrate how the grant will also help businesses in the surrounding area.