MEDIA CONTACT:
Lisa Marshall, Wisconsin Department of Tourism
608-267-3773; lmarshall@travelwisconsin.com
Noreen Rueckert, Green County Tourism
608-328-1838; tourism@greencounty.org
MONROE, Wis. (May 9, 2011) – Lt. Governor Kleefisch presented a $39,550 Destination Marketing grant to representatives from Green County and communities within the county on behalf of the Wisconsin Department of Tourism. The presentation took place in conjunction with National Tourism Week events being held around the state. The tourism grant will help the region fund a research-based brand identity project that will bring together local communities under one unifying brand.
“Green County has much to offer travelers from its agricultural heritage and rural small town charm to its spectacular culinary and recreational experiences,” Lt. Governor Kleefisch said. “This grant provides an opportunity for tourism partners to work together as a region to develop a research-based marketing strategy, tie all the communities together in one unifying brand and differentiate Green County from all other destinations.”
Beginning in June, Green County Tourism will work with North Star Destination Strategies to develop a research-based brand identity. Businesses and community leaders from Monroe, New Glarus, Monticello, Albany, Brodhead and Belleville are participating in the county-wide branding strategy. North Star has helped more than 100 destinations and municipalities in 30 states guide residents, businesses and tourists to their communities.
Green County tourism officials anticipate the branding project will provide a benchmark to measure their success and ensure a positive return on investment for their regional tourism marketing. The research-based brand strategy will provide the framework for a cohesive identity that can be applied to local marketing efforts and allow the communities to pool resources for better return on investment. Tourism officials anticipate that each community will bring their own strengths to the table in the development of the brand.
Destination Marketing funds are available to non-profit organizations for the promotion of at least three municipalities or communities. Two options are available for Destination Marketing grants. A development option allows the applicant to use a vendor of their choice to provide project deliverables. A second option allows an organization to use their own strategic planning research to conduct marketing campaigns. For information on all of the Department of Tourism grant programs, visit http://industry.travelwisconsin.com.
The mission of the Wisconsin Department of Tourism is to market the state as the Midwest’s premier travel destination by executing industry-leading marketing programs and establishing strategic partnerships. The Department plays a significant role in generating greater economic impact and jobs for Wisconsin. The portal for traveler information can be found at: http://www.travelwisconsin.com.
