Tourism Development Program
Grant Applications
The Warrensburg Convention and Visitors Bureau’s tourism development program was established to provide funding to registered nonprofits hosting events in the Warrensburg area that exhibit the potential to generate overnight visitation in Warrensburg hotels and B&Bs. The program is funded by Warrensburg’s lodging tax. Since 2017, the WCVB has awarded more than $70,000.
The WCVB’s budget runs from October 1 to September 30. The events submitted for funding must be held after October 1, 2025, and before September 30, 2026.
The program has three categories. Guidelines and eligibility requirements are outlined in each application. Applications for the program must be submitted at least 30 days before the start of the event. Under RSMo. Chapter 610, all applications and materials submitted will become a matter of public record and open to inspection by any citizen. All applications must be submitted online. If assistance accessing and completing the application is needed, contact the WCVB office.
The WCVB strongly encourages those interested in the program to review the guidelines and application checklist before applying.
Tourism Marketing Grant Guidelines and Application Checklist: APPLICATION LINK
Sports Grant Guidelines and Application Checklist: APPLICATION LINK
Sponsorship Guidelines and Application Checklist: APPLICATION LINK
2025-2026 Grant Application Deadline(s):
- 5 p.m., Friday, October 31, 2025
5p.m., Friday, January 30, 2026- 5 p.m., Friday, May 1, 2026
2025-2026 Sponsorship applications are taken as funds allow.
Contact Marcy Barnhart, WCVB Tourism Director, for more information regarding the program.
Warrensburg Visitors Center, 205 N Holden Street, Warrensburg
Reimbursement Form
WCVB grant program requires the reimbursement form to be submitted with the requested documentation within 30 days following the event date to be eligible for reimbursement. Failure to submit by the deadline with documentation may result in the grant funds not being awarded.
The reimbursement form includes questions regarding the event, lodging utilized, and the expenses being submitted for reimbursement.
The applicant MUST provide copies of invoices/receipts being submitted for reimbursement. Invoices must provide details of services and goods provided including the date of the service, cost per unit, and total cost. Tourism Marketing Grant recipients must include proof of ad placement. For radio or television spots, an affidavit of broadcast times must be part of the invoice to ensure the services were received. Invoices for printed material should include a distribution statement. Attach samples of all products to corresponding invoices.
The reimbursement must include proof of recognition of funding from the WCVB. Pictures of items such as banners, signage, T-shirts, etc. will be accepted. Snips of digital recognition including website and social media will be accepted.
The total amount of invoices/receipts may never exceed approved funds. Failure to supply the invoices/receipts and proof of recognition will void the grant award. No exceptions.
If a grant is approved, the WCVB agrees to reimburse for expenses described within the application based on compliance with all policies and guidelines set forth in the program, as well as those established by State Statutes. Any expenses deemed by the WCVB to not be allowed, by either the policies of the grant program or statutes governing the use of Lodging Tax Funds, will be denied.