Visit Central Oregon is offering grants to groups to reinvest in Central Oregon tourism spots. The grants are intended to support stewardship of outdoor activities, cultural tourism, and accessibility.  Here, a cross country skier navigates the terrain on a trail at Virginia Meissner Sno-Park west of Bend.

Visit Central Oregon is now accepting applications for its Future Fund program that supports tourism projects benefitting the community and visitors.

The tourism marketing agency will award $280,000 to projects in the community using funds raised by hotel taxes. 

“The Central Oregon Future Fund has remained a key component in Visit Central Oregon’s commitment to sustainable tourism and our responsibility to mitigate its impact on our community,” said Scott Larson, Visit Central Oregon CEO, in a prepared statement. 

Projects need to meet the goals of supporting sustainability, culture and access. Since it started several years ago, more than $1.3 million has been granted to 27 recipients, the marketing agency said.

This program is similar to one supported by the Visit Bend agency that has granted $800,000 to groups to support the community over the past five years. 

To apply go to www.visitcentraloregon.com or call 800-800-8334.