37 Va. tourism projects receive state grants

Associated Press

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — More than three dozen local tourism projects in Virginia are receiving state grants.

Gov. Bob McDonnell said Monday that grants totaling more than $543,000 are being awarded to 37 projects. The matching grants are part of the Virginia Tourism Corporation's Marketing Leverage Grant program.

The grants will be used to create advertisements, websites, social media and other marketing initiatives.

The grant program aims to leverage marketing dollars through local partnerships. To apply for a grant, at least three cities, chambers of commerce, attractions or other entities must partner financially.