Chamber awards grant funds

The Highlands Chamber of Commerce recently unveiled the third quarter recipients of the Highlands Chamber of Commerce Visit Highlands, NC Grants. Each year Visit Highlands, NC supports local nonprofits through our Tourism Grant program and sponsorships. 

These grants and sponsorships are funded by Occupancy Tax, which is paid by guests staying in Highlands’ accommodations. In fiscal year 2019-20, $167,893 in grants and sponsorships were provided to local nonprofits and year to date 2020-21 grants and sponsorships total $137,573.96. 

“As Highlands opens up after the pandemic, we expect to be able to assist more nonprofits as we all work together to make Highlands a great place to live and visit,” Highlands Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Kaye McHan said in a written statement.

Grants and Sponsorships awarded this quarter total $85,220 and the recipients are:

Center for Life Enrichment Porch Fest – $8,400

Chamber Music Festival – $7,500

Friends of Founders Park, Shrimp Boil – $1,300

Highlands Festivals – $20,000

Highlands Motoring Festival (Summer Event) – $8,000

Highlands Motoring and The Bascom Collaborative Exhibition – $5,000

Highlands Motoring Festival (Fall Event) – $3,000

Highlands Performing Art Center – $10,000 

Highlands Playhouse – $10,000

The Bascom Center for Visual Art – $10,000

The Chamber encourages everyone to support and enjoy the programs provided by Highlands’ local nonprofits. For more information about applying for a Tourism Grant or Sponsorship email Grants@highlandschamber.org.