Pilot Community Grant Program Helps Destinations Grow Tourism Appeal
The Pilot Community Tourism Grant Program, administered by the Montana Department of Commerce, has emerged as a valuable resource for rural communities seeking to enhance their appeal as visitor destinations. This state-funded initiative provides financial support to communities for developing tourism assets, infrastructure and programs that stimulate local economies while preserving the unique qualities that make Montana special.
The program’s primary goal is to build tourism in a sustainable and manageable way that fosters economic vibrancy, protects local resources and instills community pride. By prioritizing resilience, the program encourages long-term commitments to infrastructure and dedication to collaborative strategies that support sustained tourism growth.
Last summer, Commerce announced $8.75 million in grant funding during the first round of the PCTG Program. These funds supported a range of innovative projects, from the Blackfeet Tribe’s tourism strategies to the “Building a Better Broadus” initiative. Each project reflects the diverse ways communities can harness tourism as a tool for economic development.
A second round of grant applications occurred in the fall of 2024, offering communities the opportunity to apply for $2.75 million each in financial support to be distributed over 60 months. The program’s application process emphasizes community readiness, partnerships and a strong vision for long-term success. Eligible applicants include not just physical locations, such as towns or counties, but also organizations with shared tourism goals.
By equipping communities with the resources they need to boost local tourism, Commerce ensures that rural and underserved areas have the tools to compete in a dynamic tourism market. This support helps elevate Montana’s reputation as a top-tier destination while ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach communities statewide.
“It’s gotten our community excited about the future,” said Joe Ungaretti, a steering committee member from Anaconda, a recipient of the PCTG grant. “This will be something that’s a great positive for our community, for our businesses and for recreationists around the state.”
View similar success stories from grant recipients in the video below. For more information on the PCTG Program or to stay updated on future funding opportunities, visit commerce.mt.gov.
Watch here: https://youtu.be/P6Tq2EsuE7I.
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