To mark 50 years of promoting Ouachita Parish, Discover Monroe–West Monroe is investing back into the place we call home and inviting the community to help shape what comes next.

50K for 50: The Ouachita Experience is a one-time, $50,000 initiative designed to spark fresh ideas, elevate local experiences, and bring new energy to our tourism landscape. From small businesses and entrepreneurs to nonprofits and community groups, we’re calling on those who see potential and are ready to build it.

Through a series of idea sessions, workshops, and pitch opportunities, participants will develop concepts that enhance how people experience Monroe–West Monroe, whether they’re visiting for the first time or have lived here for years.

Selected projects will receive funding to bring those ideas to life, with a focus on experiences that are creative, sustainable, and uniquely rooted in Ouachita Parish.

What We’re Looking For
We’re not just funding projects. We’re investing in ideas that move the needle.

•Experiences that give people a reason to visit and a reason to come back.
•Projects that add energy during off-peak times and expand what’s available year-round.
•Ideas that celebrate what makes Ouachita Parish distinct, from the outdoors to the arts, food, and culture.
•Concepts that create shared value for both visitors and locals

The Impact
At its best, tourism doesn’t just bring people here. It makes the place better for those who already call it home.
50K for 50 is about building momentum, supporting creativity, and shaping a stronger, more vibrant Monroe–West Monroe for the next 50 years.

Funding
Total Investment: $50,000
Multiple projects will be selected based on creativity, feasibility, and potential impact.

Timeline:
Prerequisite A Due August 30th.

Application B and Requirements C Due October 30th.

Presentations of Approved Idea - Month of October - TBA on date/time.

Who Can Apply
Open to businesses, entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and community organizations with ideas that enhance the visitor experience and strengthen our community.

Click HERE for the Prerequisite A Form.

Click HERE for Application B.

Click HERE for Requirements C.

Questions? Contact Krystle Ivey at kivey@monroe-westmonroe.org.

Eligible Organizations
Eligible organizations include nonprofit organizations under Section 501 of the Internal Revenue Code and tourism-related partners whose projects support the mission and direction of Discover Monroe-West Monroe. Organizations, attractions, festivals, and events must take place in Ouachita Parish and should help shine a spotlight on Monroe-West Monroe as a destination worth visiting, exploring, and experiencing. Eligible projects should have a strong tourism connection and either a proven history - or clear potential - to attract visitors from outside the parish. This may include participants, spectators, overnight guests, media, or travelers who help increase hotel, motel, short-term rental, campground, restaurant, retail, and attraction activity in our community.

Special consideration may be given to projects that have the potential to generate regional, state, or national attention for Monroe-West Monroe.
Grant funding does not apply to family reunions, public expos, or conventions.

Product Development Grant
Discover Monroe-West Monroe is excited to support creative, visitor-focused projects that help grow tourism and make our destination even more memorable. The Product Development Grant is designed to assist Ouachita Parish attractions, festivals, museums, events, and tourism partners with projects that enhance the visitor experience and encourage overnight stays.

This reimbursable grant may be used for items such as:
Entertainment
Event logistics
Graphic design
Production
Visitor experience enhancements
Marketing and promotion

Grant funds may not be used for salaries.

Applications will be reviewed and scored by Discover Monroe-West Monroe according to tourism impact, visitor draw, project strength, and alignment with destination goals. Funding levels will be determined based on available funds and application scores.

Whether it’s a festival, attraction, event, or unforgettable experience, this grant is here to help bring more visitors, more energy, and more Monroe-West Monroe magic to our community.

Click HERE for the Grant Application.

Click HERE for Report A.

Click HERE for Report B.

Deadline to apply is January 31 and July 31.

Questions? Contact Krystle Ivey at kivey@monroe-westmonroe.org.

Eligible organizations include nonprofit organizations under Section 501 of the Internal Revenue Code and tourism-related partners whose projects support the mission and direction of Discover Monroe-West Monroe.

A Capital Outlay Improvement is a long-term investment of over $100,000.00 in physical assets that enhance, expand, or improve a facility, attraction, or public space that supports tourism in Ouachita Parish.

We’re talking about improvements that visitors can see, use, and experience, such as upgrades to buildings, grounds, infrastructure, or major equipment that make Monroe-West Monroe more attractive, functional, and visitor-ready.

What Qualifies a Capital Outlay Improvement?
Capital outlay projects typically include:
Facility construction or expansion
Renovations or major upgrades to existing buildings
Permanent infrastructure (restrooms, seating, lighting, signage, parking)
Outdoor enhancements (trails, docks, sports fields, event spaces)
Large-scale equipment tied to the visitor experience

These are not short-term expenses - they are investments designed to last for years and continue bringing visitors back again and again.

What Does NOT Qualify?
Capital Outlay funds are not intended for:
Salaries or staffing
Routine maintenance or minor repairs
Operational expenses
Temporary or one-time event costs

Think of Capital Outlay as building the backbone of tourism - the places where memories happen.

From upgraded ballfields and beautiful bayou access points to improved event spaces and visitor-friendly amenities, these projects help turn “just visiting” into “we can’t wait to come back.”

Click HERE for the Capital Outlay form.

Deadline to apply is January 31 and July 31.

Questions? Contact Krystle Ivey at kivey@monroe-westmonroe.org.