Best Travel and Tourism Grants in Florida

The Destinations Florida Dave Warren Memorial Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, aims to support incoming college juniors and seniors pursuing careers in the hospitality industry within Florida. Eligible students must write an essay highlighting the importance of the Hospitality and Tourism industry, along with their personal goals. Selection will be based on their essay, financial need, and community involvement, fostering a new generation of dedicated professionals in this vital sector.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

The RESTORE Act Direct Component supports non-construction activities in the Gulf Coast region through a rolling application process. This funding opportunity encompasses various projects aimed at ecological restoration, workforce development, and tourism promotion, among other initiatives, as outlined by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. Eligible applicants can apply for assistance to enhance natural resources, mitigate damages, and improve coastal infrastructure, ensuring sustainable development in areas affected by environmental challenges.

The Biophilia Foundation Grants support biodiversity conservation on private lands, focusing on systemic change through community engagement. The foundation encourages organizations to submit letters of inquiry detailing their mission, tax status, funding requests, and intended outcomes. They prioritize private land conservation, ecosystem restoration, and innovative policy initiatives, especially in the arid Southwest and Chesapeake Bay regions. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $25,000, with larger amounts available for established partnerships.

Timothy S.Y. Lam Foundation

The mission of the Timothy S.Y. Lam Foundation is to support research, education, and training within the hospitality industry by bestowing scholarships and grants to those seeking careers or advancement in the hospitality industry; funding education programs that promote the hospitality industry; and awarding research grants to those interested in blending academia with practical industry know-how. 

Primary Goals: To support the professional development and academic advancement of the hospitality industry by continuing to support the foundation’s current programs, promote recipients, maintain positive working relationships with associations, and provide support to underserved communities with individuals pursuing hospitality education, training, and job advancement. 

In 2024, TSYLF introduced new initiatives to support and empower underserved communities and underprivileged and underemployed individuals. We invite all hospitality associations, students, research teams, and professionals to explore how the Timothy S.Y. Lam Foundation can support your educational and professional endeavors in the field of hospitality. 

Research Grants

Grantmaking Focus

The foundation supports programs that are practical and directly benefit the hospitality industry. Of particular interest are efforts that apply rigorous academic research to solve practical hospitality issues. All grants are measured on the direct results of improved efficiency and efficacy for the hospitality industry. The Foundation emphasizes activities in the following areas and organizations that work in the following areas:

• Research programs that improve employment possibilities and career advancement for those entering or incumbents in the hospitality industry.
• Research programs that enhance efficiency in the hospitality industry.
• Articles or textbooks that contribute to the comprehensive body of knowledge and/or promote industry practices, standards, and ethics.
• Practical and applicable research projects with immediate benefit to the hospitality industry.

Grants are payable to the organization or institution and not to an individual.

Grant funding is dispersed in two payments. One payment will be made upon award approval and the second will be made once the research grant report has been submitted.

Research Grant funding should be used for the following:

• TSYLF funds should be used for research facility overhead and general maintenance.
• TSYLF funds can be used for reasonable software, computer systems or programs to organize, track and store data.
• TSYLF funds can be used for tangible research items such printed documents, writing utensils, books, office supplies or related tools and materials needed to document research and practical observations.
• TSYLF will fund equipment or materials used for hands-on training such as cleaning, and sanitation supplies, safety items or other personal protection, furnishings found in hotels, restaurants or other hospitality related facilities being used to observe applicable productivity or conditions.
• TSYLF funds can be used to obtain proper permits for conducting research or staging a practical observation or production space.
• TSYLF funds can be used be used for creating resource material and related distribution costs to hospitality professionals, businesses and educators.
• TSYLF funds can be used for support materials or services for hosting focus groups, interviews or other activities related to the research topic.
• TSYLF funds should be used wisely for reasonable and cost-effective accommodations for staff, research team and subjects such as meals, travel or lodging.
• TSYLF funds can be used for reasonable mileage or transportation fees for research subjects, team and special advisors.
• TSYLF funds can be used for reasonable travel accommodations related to research topic data collection.
• TSYLF funds can be used for reasonable compensation to the research team for their time in collecting, analyzing and organizing data related to the funded research topic.
• TSYLF funds can be used for reasonable compensation to the research subjects.
• TSYLF funds can be used for expenses related to community engagement.
• TSYLF funds can be used for fees related to attending a hospitality event that aligns with the funded research topic.

Danny Did Foundation

The Danny Did Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation organized in the state of Illinois and recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501©(3) tax-exempt organization. 

Founded by Chicagoans Mike and Mariann Stanton in January 2010 after the death of their four-year-old son Danny, the Danny Did Foundation works toward its mission to prevent deaths caused by seizures with these main goals in mind: advancing public awareness of Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP), enhancing SUDEP education and disclosure between medical professionals and families afflicted by seizures, and the mainstreaming of seizure detection and prediction devices that may assist in preventing seizure-related deaths.

EADDW Travel Assistance Grant

Epilepsy Education Expo and Epilepsy Awareness Day at Disneyworld (EADDW) is an event for people of all ages with epilepsy, their families and friends, and those interested in raising awareness for epilepsy. The free EXPO will feature exhibitors and presentations including the newest breakthroughs in medications, technology and more! The FREE Epilepsy Awareness and Education Expo will be held on April 25th at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Orlando Florida. Epilepsy Awareness Day at Disneyworld will be held on April 26th.

If your family would like to attend EADDW and you require financial travel assistance, please complete this application. Please note, this funding is in the form of reimbursement. If your application is selected, you will be notified by email.

Visit Bucks County Tourism & Hospitality Scholarship

Provides scholarships to students from Bucks County who are planning to study a major that supports the tourism/hospitality industry and attend an accredited college or university or trade school.

About

We make art possible

Our work makes art more accessible to all, so that everyone, from our neighbors to our future generations, can live in a more inspiring and enriching community.

Because The Arts Matter

Beyond the shows and exhibits we love, the arts shape our community — they open young minds, drive our economy and bring cultures together.

Cultural Tourism (CT) Funding

About the Opportunity

• Enhance the Orlando area’s arts and cultural identity
• Present quality arts and cultural experiences
• Promote tourism

United Arts of Central Florida facilitates the Orange County Cultural Tourism Funding program.

NetJets Scholarship

NetJets is the leader in private aviation. We believe that service is everyone’s job and our company mission is “To enhance the life of each owner, one exceptional travel experience at a time.” The NetJets Scholarship was designed to reinforce a love of business aviation and hospitality, reward academic merit and exemplary character, as well as inspire students to consider an exciting and rewarding career with NetJets.

Award Amount:

• Three Scholarships for $25,000 each

Native Forward awards are allocated based on the financial aid information provided by the institution’s Financial Aid Office. Awards can vary, ranging from $100 to $30,000 per academic year.

Native Forward Scholars Fund members of federally and state-recognized Tribes as well as first and second-generation descendants. However, Native Forward Scholars Fund scholarship opportunities have different Tribal eligibility requirements and can be determined by submitting a Tribal Eligibility Certificate.

Wells Fargo American Indian Scholarship

The purpose of the Wells Fargo American Indian Scholarship program is to provide financial assistance to eligible American Indian and Alaska Native undergraduate (juniors and seniors) and graduate students pursuing degrees full-time at an accredited institution.

Undergraduate (juniors and seniors) students must be pursuing a degree in the gaming, tourism, financial, or hospitality industries. Graduate students must be pursuing a degree in business or a gaming/hospitality-related field. This includes banking, resort management, gaming operations, or management and administration (including accounting, finance, information technology, and human resources).

The maximum amount of an undergraduate award is $2,500 and the maximum amount of a graduate award is $5,000 per academic year. This opportunity is a need-based award.

The Museum Grant Program in Franklin County, managed by the Tourist Development Council, offers financial support to eligible 501c3 non-profit organizations and governmental entities. With a total funding pool of $120,000, grants can reach up to $20,000, contingent on a 50/50 match requirement. This initiative aims to sustain local museum operations, encouraging cultural enrichment and community engagement through accessible funding opportunities.

The Tourist Development Council (TDC) Grants Program offers funding to organizations/events promoting Miami-Dade County as a tourist destination. The program focuses on tourist-oriented sports, cultural events, and television projects to attract visitors and encourage overnight stays. TDC prioritizes projects that generate tourism, especially in the fourth quarter of the fiscal year. With varying maximum requests based on project budgets, the TDC aims to enhance Miami-Dade's tourism appeal locally and internationally.

The Non-Profit $3,500 Major Two-Day Event Promotions Grant is provided by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council to support 501c non-profit and governmental organizations in Franklin County. This reimbursement grant aims to assist in marketing local events through various media outlets. Eligible organizations can apply for one of five available grants, with specific requirements regarding event duration and public accessibility. Applications are open to those with a minimum of two years of operational experience.

The Non-Profit $2,000 Event Promotions Grant by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council supports eligible 501c non-profits and governmental organizations in promoting one-day events. This reimbursement grant aims to help local organizations effectively market their events through various promotional activities, including media outreach. Eligible applicants must have been operational for at least two years and conduct events in Franklin County, ensuring community-focused engagement and visibility.

The Major Events' Grant, offered by the Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority, supports innovative events that enhance tourism and local businesses. Eligible events must demonstrate potential for recurring impact, with criteria including confirmed hotel room nights and media impressions. This initiative aims to elevate Miami Beach's profile as a premier destination, fostering a vibrant cultural landscape while bolstering the local economy and hospitality sector.

The Tourist Development Council Grants, managed by the St. Johns Cultural Council, aim to enhance local tourism through arts, culture, and heritage initiatives. This funding program supports both out-of-area marketing and development of new or improved programs. Eligible applicants include museums, cultural events, and theaters, with grants requiring a minimum 1:1 match. The program encourages quality tourism opportunities, ensuring that at least 25% of funding is allocated to marketing efforts beyond St. Johns County.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The Labcorp Charitable Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) entity, aims to enhance healthcare access and education for all. With grant opportunities focusing on food programs, healthcare services for underserved populations, and STEM initiatives, it seeks to support community health and well-being. Organizations eligible for funding must be U.S.-based and hold tax-exempt status. Requests are reviewed biannually, in March and September, to foster impactful community projects.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

The Kroger Foundation is dedicated to uplifting communities through significant charitable contributions, having donated over $1.9 billion in the past six years. Their focus on combating hunger through the Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative exemplifies their commitment to social impact. Annually, they provide over $300 million to nonprofit organizations aligned with their mission, promoting health, education, and disaster relief while fostering diversity and inclusion. This initiative reflects Kroger's belief that strong communities are a shared responsibility.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.