Apr 14, 2026
Cayuga County, April 2026 — The Cayuga County Tourism Office is pleased to announce the 2026 Tour Cayuga Tourism Support Grant, a funding opportunity designed to support public programming that celebrates Cayuga County and encourages visitation to the destination.
Now in its fifth year, the grant provides up to $2,000 in support for activities, performances, events, and other public-facing programs taking place in Cayuga County between May 2026 and April 2027. The Tour Cayuga Tourism Support Grant is intended to help fund programming that educates, entertains, and inspires pride of place while helping position Cayuga County as a welcoming destination of choice in the Finger Lakes for residents and visitors alike.
“Through this grant and the programs it supports, we are proud to provide our partners with opportunities not only to honor Harriet Tubman's life and impact, but also to strengthen and expand general tourism offerings across the county,” said Tour Cayuga Executive Director Courtney Kasper. "From cultural and heritage experiences to events, attractions, and visitor engagement efforts, this funding helps elevate Cayuga County as a vibrant destination. We’re excited to invest in organizations whose work ensures the region continues to grow, welcome visitors, and celebrate the rich history and experiences that make it unique.”
In 2025, 14 organizations awarded tourism funding support generated programs, including Booker T. Washington Community Center, Harriet Tubman Liberation Foundation, Seward House Museum, Old Mentz Heritage Center, Fair Haven Community Art Center, Howland Stone Store Museum, Ward W. O'Hara Agricultural & Country Living Museum, and others.
Eligible programming may include themes that honor Harriet Tubman’s life and legacy, commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, recognize “Freedom 2027,” or highlight Cayuga County more broadly through tourism-focused events and experiences. While 2026 marks the semiquincentennial of American Independence, Freedom 2027 is New York State’s commemoration of the bicentennial of the 1827 abolition of slavery in New York.
Proposed programs should demonstrate how they will promote Cayuga County, contribute to community pride, attract attendance from beyond an organization’s immediate area, and in the spirit of diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion, must encourage inclusivity in its participants and vendors. Applications for the 2026 Tour Cayuga Tourism Support Grant are due by May 8, 2026.
More information and a link to the application can be found here:
www.tourcayuga.com/partners-
For questions about the grant opportunity, applicants are encouraged to contact the Cayuga County Tourism Office at pr@tourcayuga.com or by calling (315) 255-1658.