Event Marketing Funds Now Available

Published on February 06, 2026

Supporting Success in Ulster County: Event Marketing Funds Now Available

KINGSTON, NY - Ulster County Tourism is now accepting applications for its Event Marketing Support Fund, an initiative backed by the Ulster County Executive and Ulster County Legislature to help community organizations, not‑for‑profits, and local businesses expand the reach of their events and festivals. The program provides targeted marketing support of up to $3,000 per calendar year to strengthen tourism, attract visitors from outside the County, and highlight the cultural vibrancy of Ulster County.

Tourism is the major economic driver in Ulster County, generating more than $1.1 billion in annual visitor spending, with events playing a critical role in inspiring travel and extending visitor stays.

Eligible events include town‑wide community days, historic reenactments, makers markets, fairs, festivals, and other special events. Applicants are encouraged to review program criteria before applying for County support.

Applications may be submitted online at: https://ulstercountyny.gov/event-marketing-support-fund

Priority consideration will be given to events that highlight unique cultural offerings, attract visitors from outside Ulster County, celebrate diversity, and/or enhance accessibility for differently‑abled audiences. This is a competitive funding program, and while not all requests can be awarded, eligible applicants may receive up to $3,000 per calendar year to support marketing and promotional efforts.

“Ulster County’s events showcase our communities, culture, and creativity,” said Lisa Berger, Director of Ulster County Tourism. “This funding helps event organizers strengthen their marketing efforts to reach visitors beyond our borders. Tourism generates more than $1.1 billion in annual visitor spending in Ulster County, and festivals, fairs, and community celebrations play a key role in inspiring travel, extending stays, and supporting local businesses.”

Event Marketing Support Fund — Program Guidelines:

• Priority is given to events that highlight unique cultural offerings, attract visitors from outside Ulster County, promote diversity, and/or improve accessibility for differently‑abled populations.
• Applicants must submit a marketing plan or budget outlining promotional outlets and associated costs.
• Applicants with pre‑established sponsorship levels should upload their sponsorship form.
• Funding is reimbursement‑based. Awardees must submit claims within 30 days of the event, along with required documentation.
• Funds may not be used for general marketing expenses for tourism businesses or for talent fees at events.
• This is a competitive program; not all requests will be funded. The maximum award per calendar year is $3,000
  
  

Applications for the 2026 Event Marketing Support Fund are open now, with all submissions due by Friday, March 6, 2026. Applications will be reviewed between March 16 and March 20, and award announcements will be made on Friday, March 27.

For more information, contact Ulster County Tourism at tourism@ulstercountyny.gov or (845) 340‑3566.