O’Brien County Economic Development Receives 2025 Iowa Tourism Grant to Explore Agritourism

Primghar, Iowa, January 8, 2025 – The Iowa Tourism Office recently announced over $300,000 in Iowa Tourism grants to 35 different organizations across the state. This program funds tourism-related marketing initiatives, meetings and events that benefit both local and state economies. The grant awards range from $2,500-10,000 and the recipient is required to provide a 25% cash match.

O’Brien County Economic Development Corporation (OCEDC) applied for and received a $3,400 grant to fund O’Brien County Tourism’s Agritourism Influencer promotion in 2025. OCEDC Executive Director, Kiana Johnson, stated, “Over the past few years, we have seen tremendous growth in tourism to our county. O’Brien County Tourism’s marketing efforts, partially funded by Iowa Tourism grants, have been a key element in driving that growth. This year, we plan to combine tourism and agriculture in partnership with Jay Goodvin, The Iowa Gallivant, in a fun and educational Agritourism influencer campaign.”

According to the Iowa Tourism Economic Impact report that was released in October, visitor spending in O’Brien County increased by 18.7% in 2023 as compared to 2022. Statewide, the increase was 5.1% over the same time period. Referring to key findings for the state of Iowa, the report stated, “The $7.3 billion spent by visitors generated $10.9 billion in total business sales, sustained 70,954 jobs and generated $1.1 billion in state and local tax revenues.”

O’Brien County Economic Development Corporation was formed to create an atmosphere conducive to growth and development in O’Brien County. O’Brien County Tourism falls under the umbrella of OCEDC and is devoted to promoting tourism and improving quality of life within O’Brien County. For additional information, contact Kiana Johnson, O’Brien County Economic Development at 712.957.1313 or e-mail ocedc@tcaexpress.net .

Download a full list of the awards at https://industrypartners.traveliowa.com/iowa-tourism-grants/

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