Best Travel and Tourism Grants in Missouri

Focused on tourism marketing, Missouri Division of Tourism invites Missouri destination marketing organizations and regional partnerships to seek matching funds for long-term marketing platform development. Eligible projects include brand studies, marketing plans, website and mobile optimization, social media strategy, and related efforts, with awards up to US $10,000 reimbursed at 50% and matched by non-state dollars.

Destination marketing organizations in Missouri can use this grant to fund advertising and marketing that boosts travel and tourism. Grants from Missouri Division of Tourism help Missouri tourism groups run media campaigns targeting leisure, sports, and convention travelers, reimbursing a portion of approved placements in preapproved markets and outlets.

Nonprofit organizations and public entities working on private land conservation, ecosystem restoration, or restorative ecotourism projects in Missouri may be eligible for grants supporting biodiversity and nature-based solutions. Grants from Biophilia Foundation help U.S. groups, especially in key regions, with US $5,000 - US $25,000 for conservation, restoration, and related policy or economic initiatives that can bolster travel and tourism.

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.

Students pursuing tourism or hospitality-related majors who are from Bucks County and studying at accredited colleges, universities, or trade schools can receive scholarship support through the Visit Bucks County Tourism & Hospitality Scholarship. While administered by Bucks County Foundation, Missouri students with Bucks County roots and tourism career goals may be eligible.

Students in Missouri studying aviation or hospitality can access funding for higher education through the NetJets Scholarship, administered by The Columbus Foundation, with awards of US $25,000. Grants from The Columbus Foundation help tourism-focused students at eligible U.S. institutions advance their education and prepare for careers in business aviation and hospitality.

American Indian and Alaska Native undergraduate juniors and seniors in tourism, gaming, financial, or hospitality fields, and graduate students in business or gaming/hospitality-related programs, studying in Missouri or elsewhere in the U.S., may be eligible for need-based scholarships; awards range from US $2,500 - US $5,000. Grants from Native Forward Scholars Fund support full-time study at accredited institutions for members and certain descendants of federally or state-recognized Tribes pursuing tourism and related careers.

Missouri arts-focused 501(c)(3)s, government entities, school districts, and tax-exempt faith-based organizations can seek program support for tourism-related arts events, performances, classes, outreach, and public art. Eligible Springfield Regional Arts Council member organizations may receive up to US $90,000 total across the region from Community Foundation of the Ozarks and partners to advance arts, access, and regional tourism.

Missouri nonprofits working in art, culture, tourism, parks, or community betterment can seek funding to support local programs in Crawford County. Community Foundation of the Ozarks, through Impact100 Crawford County, provides grants to eligible 501(c)(3), 501(c)(8), 501(c)(13), and 501(c)(19) organizations operating for at least two years.

The FY26 Bureau of Land Management Invasive and Noxious Plant Management program focuses on preventing and controlling invasive species that threaten public lands and native plant communities. These invasive plants impose significant economic burdens and disrupt ecosystems. The program aims to enhance detection, rapid response, and education on invasive species, while also promoting rehabilitation efforts and biological control to protect valuable resources on public lands.

Missouri nonprofits and other tax-exempt organizations working in health, education, or community services can access funding through Labcorp Charitable Foundation to support local programs. Grants may back food pantries, healthcare access for underserved populations, STEM education, and healthy lifestyle initiatives, which can complement tourism-related community development efforts.

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.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving communities in Missouri and the broader Southern region can seek support for programs addressing poverty, families, education, health, disaster relief, animal welfare, veterans, and conservation. Focused on tangible impact, the Robinson Foundation invites established charities to propose single-year projects that may also enhance local tourism or ecotourism through community betterment.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Missouri seeking support for community development, basic needs, workforce education, arts, environment, or diversity initiatives can apply for sponsorship funding from Bank of America Foundation. With a mission to advance economic mobility and social progress, the foundation’s regional U.S. sponsorships may benefit tourism-related projects that strengthen local communities.

Missouri 501(c)(3) nonprofits and aligned for-profit organizations can access funding to tell powerful stories about their work in preservation, education, or wellness. The Jesse W Couch Charitable Foundation’s Storytelling Grant supports communications that highlight impacts such as wildlife conservation, historic preservation, outdoor recreation, mental health, and related initiatives, which may benefit ecotourism and tourism-focused programs.

Missouri tourism and ecotourism nonprofits can access funding through Mutual of America Foundation’s Community Partnership Award, which honors exemplary cross-sector collaborations improving communities. U.S.-based organizations that model strong, replicable partnerships with public, private, or social sector leaders may be selected for national recognition through this competitive award program.

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.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Missouri working on basic needs, community development, cultural enrichment, or volunteer-driven programs can apply for Ameriprise Financial support. Focus areas include hunger relief, shelter and supportive housing, financial literacy, workforce readiness, arts education, and community revitalization, with priority for sites engaging Ameriprise employee or advisor volunteers.

Educational institutions, government programs, 501(c)(3) nonprofits, and 501(c)(4) volunteer fire companies in Missouri can apply for State Farm Companies Foundation’s Good Neighbor Citizenship grants to support safety, education, and community development initiatives. Tourism and ecotourism projects that improve community safety, economic vitality, or local education may be eligible.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations providing basic needs or economic mobility programs for youth and families, including those in Missouri, can apply for Nordstrom Community Grants. Focused on essentials like food, shelter, clothing, and workforce development, Nordstrom offers US $5,000 - US $20,000 in unrestricted support to groups serving communities near its store locations.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.

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 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.