Let’s Minocqua Visitors Bureau gives $43,000 in grants for local development and projects

The Let’s Minocqua Visitors Bureau is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2024 Room Tax Grant allocations. Successful awardees demonstrated that they would be utilizing funds for tourism development and promotion in the Minocqua area.

The Let’s Minocqua Visitors Bureau is the official designated destination marketing and management 501(c)(6) organization and tourism entity, representing the tourism zone including the towns of Minocqua, Woodruff, Hazelhurst, and Arbor Vitae.

The room tax grant review committee reviewed 12 applications with a total request tallying nearly $114,800 from non-profit groups, businesses, and municipalities throughout the area.

“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the 2024 Room Tax Grant recipients and commend all applicants for their dedication and efforts. Each organization plays a vital role in enhancing our communities, and we are excited to witness their contributions to local growth in the coming year,” said Krystal Westfahl, president and CEO. “A sincere thank you to everyone who applied; your ambition is inspiring. We are eager to support the awardees in bringing their visions to life and creating meaningful improvements in our destination.”

Successful applicants needed to provide evidence that their efforts would focus on bringing people to the area, creating a positive economic impact, or working towards future development projects within the destination. The room tax grant committee also considered applications from groups, businesses, and organizations that offer activities or events that would encourage people to stay longer. 

The applicants were reviewed through a series of questions that looked at their ability to articulate their plans. Could they explain how the project or event fits within the current tourism landscape? How would they evaluate their event or project for effectiveness? What was their marketing plan and proposed budget to accomplish their proposal? These were a few of the objectives for the grant application and those that were able to specify how the funding would help the destination were ranked higher during the review.

“Congratulations to all the 2024 award recipients,” said board chairman John Eppes of Bear Naked Technologies. “We are excited to collaborate with these organizations on their projects and support their initiatives in the upcoming year. Their commitment to innovation and community development inspires us. I look forward to seeing how these projects contribute to the growth and vitality of our communities. This is just the beginning, and we are eager to be a part of their journey toward success.”

Brandy Park Commission, Towns of Arbor Vitae & Woodruff: $10,000 Award

The room tax grant committee is pleased to provide support to the Brandy Park Commission and its affiliates by helping fund the resurfacing project at Brandy Park.

As one of the fastest-growing sports in America, pickleball is capturing the hearts of players of all ages. This dynamic game combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone — from children to seniors. Brandy Park is now home to the only regulation pickleball court in our room tax area!

Pickleball is more than just an enjoyable activity; it significantly contributes to community well-being by promoting health, social connections, and economic development. The sport offers numerous health benefits, including cardiovascular fitness, improved coordination, and enhanced balance, making it especially advantageous for everyone to enjoy and benefit. Additionally, pickleball courts act as social hubs where people can forge new friendships and strengthen existing ones, fostering a sense of community. As a result of its growing popularity, local parks and recreation departments are investing in pickleball facilities, enhancing community spaces, and attracting visitors, which boosts local economies.

We look forward to the future growth of this sport in our area in the years to come.

Howard Young Foundation: $10,000 Award

Since its inception in 2016, the Minocqua Dragon Boat Festival has become a cornerstone event in the Northwoods, offering a family-friendly and free community celebration that supports healthcare initiatives and advancements in the region.

Each year, the festival gains in popularity, drawing more participants and spectators who come together to enjoy the festivities and support a vital cause.

With this room tax grant, the festival is set to elevate its voice and marketing efforts in 2025, enhancing its outreach to attract new participants and spectators. This enhanced marketing plan will ensure the festival continues to grow, fostering greater community involvement and showcasing the beauty of Minocqua.

The room tax committee recognizes that supporting the Minocqua Dragon Boat Festival is not merely an investment in an event; it’s an investment in community building, brand reputation, and long-term economic growth and cultural enrichment. By championing this festival, we are not only promoting a celebration of sport and culture but also contributing to the overall well-being of our community.

Lakeland Area Baseball Association: $10,000 Award

The Lakeland Area Baseball Association is developing a dedicated indoor practice and warm-up facility to enhance its strong program. We are pleased to support this initiative to kickstart fundraising with this successful grant application. The Minocqua sports complex has become a premier youth baseball destination, attracting thousands from across the Midwest, evidenced by its three major tournaments. The proposed 4,800 sq ft facility will feature two retractable batting cages for pitching machines and live-arm throwing, along with an area for field drills.

This facility will be a tremendous asset, driving competitive baseball programs for local youth.

Competitive youth sports drive tourism by attracting families and teams, boosting local economies through accommodations and dining, fostering community pride, establishing destinations as sports hubs, and enhancing overall appeal through a vibrant visitor experience. We are excited to see this project kick-off!

Rollie & Helen’s Musky Shop Summer Bash: $3,000 Award

As the world’s largest retailer of musky gear, Rollie and Helen’s Musky Shop is dedicated not only to providing top-quality equipment but also to fostering a deep appreciation for the sport of musky fishing. Over the past four years, the Musky Bash has emerged as a cornerstone event, attracting hundreds of newcomers to the thrilling world of musky fishing and highlighting the beauty of the Minocqua area.

This exciting outdoor event unites professional fishing experts from across the Northwoods, offering valuable insights into angling techniques and the preservation of this elusive underwater giant. Rollie and Helen’s Musky Shop is proud to be at the forefront of this initiative, helping to educate and inspire both seasoned anglers and those just starting their journey into musky fishing.

The room tax grant committee is happy to provide funding to support advertising this great event to state and local musky enthusiasts. Help us congratulate them as they continue to celebrate the sport, the community, and the majestic musky that captivates the hearts of fishing devotees everywhere.

Wildwood Wildlife Park Zoo & Safari: $10,000 Award

We are excited to support the Siamang Conservation building project at Wildwood Wildlife Park, the state’s second-largest zoo and a key player in Minocqua’s travel and tourism industry. Local zoos serve as essential educational centers, offering  engaging programs and exhibits that enhance understanding of wildlife, conservation, and biodiversity. They also act as community hubs, hosting events that bring people together and enrich the cultural fabric of the area.

Through outreach programs, volunteer opportunities, and school partnerships, Wildwood Wildlife Park fosters community engagement and promotes environmental stewardship. Additionally, they play a critical role in conservation efforts, raising awareness about endangered species and habitat preservation. The Siamang primate conservation program will further increase public awareness about these primates’ endangered status and the importance of protecting their natural habitats, fostering a sense of responsibility and connection to conservation efforts all while engaging locals and visitors alike in this new addition to the zoo.