Deputy secretary to present check
MEDIA CONTACT:
Danielle Johnson, Wisconsin Department of Tourism
608-266-0458; djohnson@travelwisconsin.com
Dave Blank, Real Racine
262-884-6405; dblank@racine.org
RACINE, Wis. (July 13, 2011) – The Wisconsin Department of Tourism presented a $28,200 Joint Effort Marketing (JEM) grant to Real Racine, formerly known as the Racine County Convention and Visitors Bureau. This year two Destination Marketing grant, presented by Deputy Secretary Dave Fantle, provides funds to further market the area as a desirable travel destination.
“Racine is just another example of a Wisconsin hidden gem,” said Fantle. “From their lakefront, arts and cultural attractions and fine restaurants, Racine, through its new marketing initiative is poised to see a significant increase in traveler spending.”
In fiscal 2011, the Department funded 53 Joint Effort Marketing projects, awarding a total of nearly $1.2 million dollars. Visitor expenditures driven by the marketing from these projects will exceed $20 million.
Racine County offers many attractions, including the nationally-recognized North Beach. It was named the 10th best beach for families in the country this year by “Parents Magazine” and received an honorable mention in an Associated Press article naming the top five Great Lakes beaches. The “I am Real Racine” marketing strategy will capitalize on these area attractions.
Grant funds will focus on online marketing efforts such as social media outlets including Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. Funds will also assist with website redesign and the development of a mobile website. The goal of marketing efforts, in addition to rebranding Racine, is also to showcase Racine County’s hospitality and people.
Year one of the advertising program increased monthly occupancy in area hotels an average of 1.1 percent, which in turn generated over $1.2 million in economic impact from May through December, 2010. Real Racine hopes to create an even greater return utilizing the additional funding from the Wisconsin Department of Tourism.
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.
