Frequently Asked Questions
Application & Eligibility
Q: What is the timeframe for applying to the program?
A: The program application is open on a rolling basis from July 1, 2022 through May 1, 2023.
Q: Is the grant portion of this program first come, first served, with awards given as applications are approved?
A: Yes; to increase the chances of your project being funded, the earlier in the grant cycle you apply, the more likely it is that funds will still be available.
Q: Where can we find application materials?
A: A preview of application content is available on this website under the Resources section of the grant. All applications must be completed and submitted at nmtourism.smapply.io.
Q: What is the anticipated timeline for evaluating applications and responding to applicants?
A: We will confirm receipt of your application within 21 business days and we are committed to reviewing each proposal as quickly as possible.
Q: What is the best way to get in touch for eligibility and application questions?
A: Contact NMTD Tourism Development Coordinator Gabrielle McGinnis at gabrielle.mcginnis@td.nm.gov.
Q: Can one entity submit multiple applications? For example, can different departments within the same municipality apply for different projects?
A: Each individual applicant may submit only one proposal. It is acceptable for multiple proposals to come in from a single community, but the scopes of work must be distinct. This is a competitive grant process, and proposals/projects should come with comprehensive community buy-in and support with strong proof of positive economic impact.
Q: What does a “viable” project mean?
A: The purpose of this program is to provide assistance in the development of new or expanded tourism initiatives which will lead to increased positive economic impact in New Mexico. Projects should therefore be community-driven and aimed at creating a long-term, positive impact upon the communities they serve. A project is viable if: 1. Demand can be sustained organically within the community/organization and by affected parties/stakeholders; and 2. Benefits and challenges (financial, socio-economic, access, quality of life, etc.) created by the project are experienced equitably across the community/stakeholders.
Q: Can a project receive funding in multiple years?
A: Yes, and applicants are welcome to submit an application for a distinct phase of a larger project, though there is no guarantee that future phases will be funded. This grant is for the creation or enhancement of tourism products.
Project Timeline
Q: For the grant, when do project scopes of work need to be completed?
A: Project scopes of work must be completed by the end of the NMTD fiscal year (June 30, 2023).
Q: Will this grant be offered again in FY24 (July 1, 2023-June 30, 2024)?
A: We do plan to continue this grant into future cycles. FY24 dates will be determined after the 2023 legislative session.
Q: When can the project start? Does the applying entity need to wait for approval?
A: The start date of the project is determined by the applicant organization, but all work funded must be completed within the fiscal year (July 1, 2022-June 30, 2023).
Funding
Q: When is the next funding cycle?
A: FY24 dates will be determined after the 2023 legislative session.
Q: What are the minimum and maximum award amounts?
A: Applicants may apply for any amount up to $50,000, with no minimum amount. Note that this grant provides a 1:1 match, with NMTD providing funding up to $50,000 and the applicant providing the same amount of funding up to $50,000, for a total of up to $100,000.
Q: Is State Capital Outlay eligible as a matching source for funds?
A: Yes; all state monies other than New Mexico Tourism Department monies may be used as matching funds.
Q: Is in-kind matching acceptable?
A: Yes; however, a cash match is preferred. Each applying entity must determine the percentage and types of in-kind matching that are appropriate for their circumstances.
Q: Can matching funds come from the private sector?
A: Yes.
Q: Can grant funds be used to pay for engineering, construction, and infrastructure (i.e. construction of walking paths, remodel of current buildings to focus on the visitor experience, etc.)?
A: Yes, as long as the project is deemed eligible according to the Program Guidelines and approved by the application review panel for participation in the program.
Q: Do we need to submit quotes with our application, or may we follow the state procurement code which allows cooperative agreements to help expedite work?
A: You may follow procurement code quotes which have already been obtained to award the cooperative agreement; however, we still request that pricing be included in total budget costs.