Contact: Cullen Werwie, 608-267-7303
Madison – Governor Walker presented a $18,328 Joint Effort Marketing (JEM) grant to the De Pere Chamber of Commerce to promote the fourth annual “Fall Fest De Pere,” scheduled for September 17 on the streets of the downtown area. Event organizers estimate the event will draw 20,000 attendees and over $400,000 in traveler spending at area hotels, restaurants and stores. The event is part of the non-profit Main Street De Pere program.
“This second year project clearly demonstrates that funding tourism marketing initiatives produces a sound return on investment for the local economy,” Governor Walker said. “Tourism is part of the State’s economic foundation and its continued growth is a priority for my administration because of the nearly 300,000 jobs it supports, the tax revenues it generates and the positive image it projects for the state.”
The Department of Tourism’s marketing grant program funded 51 projects totaling $1.14 million in fiscal year 2010. Visitor expenditures driven by the marketing from these projects exceeded $30 million.
“The JEM Grant funding helped grow Fall Fest attendance to 16,000 in 2010 from 5,000 the previous year,” said Cheryl Detrick, President of the De Pere Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Inc. “This event provides an immediate boost to our lodging, restaurant and retail businesses while developing the area as a destination.”
To continue growing Fall Fest De Pere, event organizers are using a multi-layered media plan to reach new consumers in Milwaukee, Sheboygan and Chicago as well as St. Norbert College Alumni in other areas including Madison and the Twin Cities. Print and broadcast advertising, direct mail, social and digital media are among the marketing efforts. The one-day event features a Best of the Midwest Rib Cook-Off, day-long live entertainment, a variety of family activities and cultural performances. The event is scheduled in conjunction with St. Norbert College’s Parents & Alumni Reunion Weekend.
JEM grant funds are available to non-profit organizations for the promotion of Wisconsin tourism events and destinations. The State can fund up to 75 percent of a project’s first year advertising and marketing costs and provides support for second and third year projects, but with decreasing amounts for funding each year until projects become self-sustaining. For information on the JEM Program and application materials, 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.
