More than 20 events and community programs across Cayuga County will receive funding through Tour Cayuga’s 2026 Tourism Support Grant program.
The organization announced that $30,000 has been awarded to 22 recipients to help develop public-facing events and experiences designed to attract visitors, strengthen community pride and enhance the county’s tourism economy.
Funded projects span a wide range of interests, including arts and cultural programming, heritage and history initiatives, community festivals, live music, agricultural education, youth programs and leadership development. Several projects will highlight the legacy of Harriet Tubman, America’s upcoming 250th anniversary and Freedom 2027 commemorations.
Among the recipients are the Auburn Downtown Partnership, Friends of Emerson Park, Cayuga Museum of History and Art, Booker T. Washington Community Center, Auburn Public Theater, Auburn Cayuga NAACP, United Way of Cayuga County, Skaneateles Festival and the Fair Haven Area Chamber of Commerce. Additional grants will support programs focused on education, cultural awareness, recreation and community engagement throughout the county.
Tour Cayuga Executive Director Courtney Kasper said applications for the program nearly doubled this year, reflecting growing demand for support among local organizations. The funded events and programs are expected to take place through the spring of 2027 and are intended to draw both residents and visitors to destinations across Cayuga County.
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