Department Of Commerce

In 2025, the passage of Senate Bill 409 revised the laws related to the Montana Department of Commerce and the lodging facility use tax, commonly known as the bed tax. The bill updates SB 540, which passed in 2023, restructuring the allocation of bed tax revenue by specifying how Commerce can use these funds for purposes such as tourism promotion and grants. One of the programs Commerce established in 2023 in furtherance of the legislative directive is the Regional Assistance Program.

The program assists regional nonprofit tourism corporations (regions) and convention and visitor bureaus to:

  • Build additional capacity.
  • Coordinate with Commerce's Destination MT Division on tourism strategies.
  • Collectively develop and enhance rural and under-visited tourism opportunities, including asset development and collaborative promotion, to increase visitor commerce.
  • Generate community revenue for the benefit of local economies.

RAP grant applications will launch no sooner than March every two years. An application cycle will also be available in February of the interim year to allow any newly designated CVBs to apply if they are eligible.

Please review the Regional Assistance Program Guidelines for more information, eligibility and the application process. Reach out to tourismgrants@mt.gov with any questions.

 

Resources for Applicants