Dept. of Tourism: Waupaca County receives $20,000 Tourism marketing grant

MEDIA CONTACT:
Danielle Johnson, Wisconsin Department of Tourism
608-266-0458; djohnson@travelwisconsin.com

David Thiel, Waupaca County Economic Development Corporation
920-982-1582; wcedc@charter.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tourism Secretary to present second year check

WAUPACA, Wis. (Nov. 15, 2012) – The Waupaca County Economic Development Corporation looks to expand marketing efforts with the help of a $20,000 Joint Effort Marketing (JEM) grant from the Wisconsin Department of Tourism. Presented by Tourism Secretary Stephanie Klett, this Year-2 Destination Marketing grant will execute a marketing strategy based on research uncovered from the Year-1 grant. The marketing strategy centers around the brand “It’s Your Day” targeting travelers with specific interest in personal passions and capitalizing on assets the county offers to those travelers.

“Waupaca County is a fantastic hidden gem and has a lot to offer travelers, with classic events like the Iola Car Show, the beautiful Chain O’Lakes, and an extensive trail system for hiking and biking,” said Secretary Klett. “We’re thrilled to support Waupaca County with this grant. By creating a marketing strategy based on solid research uncovered from the first year of the grant, they’re positioned to see an increase in visitor spending and positive economic impact in their communities.”

In fiscal 2012, the Department funded 50 Joint Effort Marketing projects, awarding a total of over $1.1 million dollars. Visitor expenditures driven by the marketing from these projects will exceed $29 million. Traveler spending in Waupaca County topped $77 million in 2011, supporting over 1,200 jobs and $9.6 million in state and local taxes.

Municipalities partnering in this project include Marion, Clintonville, Manawa, New London, Waupaca, Weyauwega, Iola and Fremont. The goal for the project is to increase the number of visitors, including encouraging those already there for an event or attraction to stay longer. This will be accomplished by increasing digital communication, including social media, driving traffic to their website, developing an interactive Google map system to highlight and promote attractions in Waupaca County, and development of a TV ad campaign.

“Without the funding assistance from the Wisconsin Department of Tourism, Waupaca County would not have been able to build a solid marketing foundation that will allow us to bring in more tourists and revenue for our local businesses,” said Waupaca County Economic Development Corporation Executive Director David Thiel. “We are now poised to build on that foundation, and sustain it for the long term.”

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: www.travelwisconsin.com.

# # #