Two Lawrence-area tourism groups receive $10,000 in marketing grants from Kansas Tourism to promote culinary scene | News, Sports, Jobs

photo by: Bremen Keasey

A representative from Kansas Tourism presented a check for $9,520 to members of the Lawrence Restaurant Association Friday morning. The group was one of two local tourism associations to win grants to help market special events.

A pair of Lawrence-area tourism groups have received two Kansas Tourism marketing grants totaling $10,000 aimed at increasing visitor engagement and promoting local dining experiences.

The Northeast Kansas Tourism Association and Lawrence Restaurant Association won grants of $1,600 and $9,520, respectively, and were presented Friday morning.

Bridgette Jobe, director of Kansas Tourism, said part of the purpose of the grants is to help launch new marketing initiatives. She said groups in Lawrence have faced distinct challenges this year because renovations to David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium mean there are no home football games at the University of Kansas. Therefore, the new programs were “something necessary” to provide a boost to tourism in the area, she said.

Kim Anspach, executive director of Explore Lawrence, said her group assisted the two groups in the grant application process.

The Northeast Kansas Tourism Association grant will help the group develop and promote a “cultural food passport” using a platform called Bandwango. Visitors can sign up on the platform to redeem exclusive offers and earn points for rewards and gifts.

The Lawrence Restaurant Association grant will enhance the marketing efforts of the Lawrence Cocktail Trail and Lawrence Restaurant Week. The cocktail trail will take place from October 17-20, while restaurant week is scheduled to take place in January 2025.

Codi Bates, vice president of the Lawrence Restaurant Association, said she was thrilled the group was able to win the competitive grant. Similar to the food passport for the Northeast Kansas tourism plan, Bates said the cocktail trail will use an interactive pass to help enhance visitor experiences.