The Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) is bringing back its Community Enrichment Program (CEP).
The CEP opens various opportunities that can further economic development. The program supports events, community-based projects and festivals that boost the experiences of locals and tourists.
“HTA’s Community Enrichment Program exemplifies various ways in which tourism can drive diversification for our economy, by supporting community-based projects and experiences that are intertwined with other industries and sectors,” Kalani Ka'anā'anā, HTA’s chief brand officer, told Big Island Now. “CEP awardees will also be integral in moving each of the islands’ Destination Management Action Plans forward.”
The Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau (HCVB), the Island Chapters and the Hawaii Tourism Authority are partnering up to administer its 2022 Community Enrichment Program process, according to Big Island Now.
HCVB is trying to provide funding to support qualified nonprofit organizations and projects in 2022 and has issued a request for proposal (RFP). The bureau is currently seeking proposals from the community. An RFP for its 2021 program was not issued due to the COVID-19 pandemic and funding challenges.
The deadline to submit proposals is Friday, Nov. 5, and they must be under any of the following tourism categories: agriculture tourism, cultural tourism, culinary tourism, nature tourism, education tourism, health and wellness tourism, sports tourism and "voluntourism," Big Island Now reported.