Release Date: February 3,2026
2026 Destination Development Grants Fuel Tourism Growth Across Summit County
AKRON, OH (Feb. 3, 2026) – The Akron/Summit Convention & Visitors Bureau (ASCVB) is pleased to announce the recipients of its 2026 Destination Development Grant Program. This year, a total of $50,000 was awarded to 35 Summit County organizations, businesses and events within the hospitality ecosystem.
The program supports qualifying initiatives that enhance Summit County’s appeal as a travel destination, including projects that increase the tourism market share and grow the industry. The goals of the program include 1.) Increase overnight stays in Akron/Summit County; 2.) Promote a positive image and increase the visibility of Akron/Summit County attractions; 3.) Increase expenditures by visitors to Akron/Summit County; 4.) Provide programs and activities beneficial to attracting additional tourists. Funded projects are aligned with the ASCVB’s mission to grow the visitor economy while fostering long-term community and economic impact.
“We’d like to thank all of this year’s applicants. By investing in our industry partners, we’re helping fuel economic impact, enhance our destination’s appeal and ensure Summit County remains competitive in attracting visitors year-round,” said Gregg Mervis, president and CEO of the ASCVB. “There was strong interest in the Destination Development Grant with nearly 60 applications, so determining this year’s recipients required a close review of each applicant.”
2026 grantees include: Akron Art Museum, Akron Children’s Museum, Akron Civic Theatre, Akron History Center, Akron Marathon Charitable Corporation, Akron Pride Festival, Akron RubberDucks, Akron-Canton Airport, ArtsNow, BLU-Tique Hotel, Cascade Locks Park Association, City of Cuyahoga Falls, City of Macedonia, Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Cummings Center for the History of Psychology, Curated Storefront, Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, Downtown Akron Partnership, Green Community Improvement Corporation, International Soap Box Derby, Kaulig Companies Championship, Kave Coffee Bar, Magical Theatre Company, Northside Marketplace, Ohio & Erie Canalway Coalition, Portage Lakes State Park, Paddle the River LLC, Quaker Square Redevelopment Group LTD, Rubber City Sports Group, Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, Summit Artspace, Summit Choral Society, Summit County Agricultural Society, Towpath Tennis Center and Tuesday Musical Association.
Along with meeting program goals, to be eligible for grant funding, projects must meet certain criteria and fall within eligible activities. These activities include tourism marketing, tourism property and building improvements and sponsorship of an exhibit or event.
For additional information about the Destination Development Grant Program, please contact Stephanie Berry, VP of Marketing and Brand Management at sberry@visitakron-summit.org.
About the Akron/Summit Convention & Visitors Bureau:
The Akron/Summit Convention & Visitors Bureau (ASCVB), established in 1973, is the official destination marketing organization for Summit County, Ohio. Dedicated to promoting the region as a premier travel destination, the ASCVB works collaboratively with industry partners, stakeholders, and the community to showcase Summit County's natural beauty, cultural attractions, and unique experiences.