New Funding Programs Support Ocala/Marion County's Tourism Economy

OCALA/MARION COUNTY, Fla.—The Ocala/Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau is offering new or enhanced funding programs designed to strategically support and grow the vibrant tourism industry within Ocala/Marion County. These opportunities, to be administered by the Ocala/Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau (VCB), aim to empower local businesses, organizations, and events to attract more visitors and further stimulate economic development across the destination.

The newly approved comprehensive funding initiatives offer resources tailored to various facets of the tourism sector and are as follows:

Room Night Generating Events: This program is specifically for events occurring in Ocala/Marion County that attract visitors who stay in paid overnight accommodations subject to Tourist Development Tax. Funding is provided as a reimbursement in direct correlation with verified room nights generated and approved eligible expenses per program guidelines. Please note, a Room Night Generating Event Funding application must be submitted at least 120 days before that start date of the event. The applicant must speak to or meet with Ocala/Marion County VCB to receive the link to apply. The Sales Team can be reached at 352-438-2800 or email sales@marionfl.org. Program Details Here.

The Arts and Cultural Destination Enhancement Funding Program: This multi-faceted program aims to enhance the tourism product within Ocala/Marion County by aiding in the programming and promotions of arts, cultural, history, heritage, and nature experiences that primarily attract tourists. To apply, interested parties must submit a Letter of Intent no later than October 1, 2025. Program Details Here.

Meeting Rewards Program: This booking incentive program offers up to $2,500 to organizations that book a meeting at an Ocala/Marion County facility or venue through the Ocala/Marion County VCB. Program Details Here.

Event Bid Fee / Rights Fee Policy: The Ocala/Marion County VCB accepts, reviews, and processes bid fees/rights fees on behalf of the Tourist Development Council, under authorization by the Marion County Board of County Commissioners, facilitating the attraction of large, premier events. Program Details Here.

Marketing Assistance Funding Program: The application window for this program is closed. Program Details Here.

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About: Internationally renowned among equestrians, cyclists, geologists, and even the world of classic cinematography, Ocala/Marion County still feels like a hidden gem to those who aren’t already insiders. And yet, when you’re here, you’re never an outsider. The relaxed, genuine friendliness of the county’s communities makes you feel welcome wherever you go. From its otherworldly natural springs to the compounds of World Equestrian Center and Florida Aquatics Swimming and Training to its vibrant restaurants, quaint shops, dynamic arts and culture, and historic sites, the destination takes you by surprise in the best of ways. For more information about Ocala/Marion County, visit OcalaMarion.com or call toll-free 1.888.FL.OCALA.