Snohomish County is accepting applications from public and nonprofit agencies for projects that develop and promote tourism in the county.

Lodging tax resources are an important tool to strengthen and promote the County’s tourism assets. To achieve maximum benefit and provide the greatest return on investment, Snohomish County’s lodging tax resources will be awarded to applicants who can best illustrate how their project will advance the 2011 Snohomish County Strategic Tourism Plan. Examples of potential funding approaches include creation of itineraries, maps and packaging between arts and heritage organizations; promotion of outdoor recreation assets and establishing and promoting Snohomish County’s diverse shopping experiences.

Money is awarded from revenue collected annually from hotel and motel room rentals in Snohomish County.

As has been done in the past, the Snohomish County Lodging Tax Advisory Committee will review applications and make recommendations to the Snohomish County Executive and County Council for final approval.

Funds will be available beginning in January and will be awarded on a competitive basis to applicants who can complete their proposed projects by Dec. 15, 2012. Historically, individual project allocation has averaged about $10,000.

Details of eligibility and other program requirements are included in the application package, which must be filled out and returned to the Snohomish County’s Office of Economic Development by 5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 21. Applications received after that time and date will not be considered.

Applications are available by contacting the Office of Economic Development at 3000 Rockefeller Avenue, M/S #411, Everett, WA, 98201.

For more information on the program, contact Wendy Becker at 425-388-3186 or wendy.becker@snoco.org.