Belmont County Tourism Awards Over $100,00 in 2023 GAP Grants

The Belmont County Tourism Council Board of Directors is pleased to announce the Grant Assistance Program (GAP Grant) has awarded $107,600 to 52 non-profit organizations in Belmont County. Individual grants ranged from $500 to $2,000. There were a record number of applicants this year, including several first-time applicants. A check presentation event on March 30 at the tourism office included local media coverage.

Pictured left to right: Belmont County Commissioner Jerry Echemann, representatives of the Ohio Valley River Elks for Martins Ferry Community Day and Belmont County Tourism Executive Director Jackee Pugh.

These grants help “fill in the gap” by financially assisting non-profit organizations with events, projects, improvements, or maintenance of a tourist attraction or historical site that enhances travel and tourism in Belmont County.

The Tourism Council supported the return of the James Wright Poetry Festival to Martins Ferry on April 29. Pictured with Tourism Executive Director Jackee Pugh is Anthony Orsini, director of the Belmont County District Library.

“Many of the recipients would not be able to continue with their community event or attraction if it wasn’t for this grant,” said Jackee Pugh, the Executive Director of Belmont County Tourism. “We are blessed to be able to offer financial support to so many non-profits that impact tourism in Belmont County.”

Pictured left to right: BCTC Board Member Dan Frizzi, Barb Trytko, National Imperial Glass Collector’s Society Secretary, Kathy Conn-Turner, president of the National Imperial Glass Collectors Society, and BCTC Executive Director Jackee Pugh.

The Belmont County Tourism Council’s mission is to bring visitors to the area by promoting our events, attractions, and unique experiences. We are optimistic about the future of Belmont County and looking forward to all the upcoming events happening right here in friendly, beautiful Belmont County.

Pictured left to the right: Jack Regis Jr. of the Martins Ferry VFD for the annual Betty Zane Days, BCTC Board Member George Diab, and Executive Director Jackee Pugh.

Belmont County Tourism Council, Inc. is a non-profit organization believing that promoting tourism and economic development is of prime importance. The organization’s purpose is to actively promote the area’s attractions and events and carry on other duties necessary to promote Belmont County as a great place to visit!

One of the new applicants this year was the History Detectives of Belmont County. Executive Director Pugh is pictured with (left tor right) Tara Estle, Cathryn Stanley, and Kristina Estle.