Can ARPA Funds Be Used for Tourism?

By Alice Nichols

The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) has been a topic of discussion across various industries, including tourism. Many have been wondering whether ARPA funds can be used for tourism-related activities and projects.

What is ARPA?
ARPA is a COVID-19 relief package that was signed into law by President Joe Biden on March 11, 2021. The act provides funding for various sectors, including healthcare, education, infrastructure, and small businesses.

Can ARPA Funds Be Used for Tourism?
Yes, ARPA funds can be used for tourism-related activities and projects. The act provides funding for state and local governments to support economic recovery efforts in their respective jurisdictions. This includes funding for the tourism industry.

How Can ARPA Funds Be Used in the Tourism Industry?

ARPA funds can be used in the following ways:

Marketing and Promotion: State and local governments can use ARPA funds to promote their tourism industry through marketing campaigns, advertisements, and other promotional activities.

Infrastructure Development: ARPA funds can be used to develop tourism infrastructure such as parks, museums, cultural centers, and other tourist attractions.

Small Business Support: Small businesses in the tourism industry can receive financial support from ARPA funds to help them recover from the pandemic’s economic impact.

The Benefits of Using ARPA Funds in the Tourism Industry

Using ARPA funds in the tourism industry has several benefits:

  • Economic Recovery: The tourism industry has been hit hard by the pandemic. Using ARPA funds to support the industry will help it recover from its losses.
  • Creativity and Innovation: With funding available for infrastructure development and small business support, there is ample opportunity for creativity and innovation within the tourism industry.
  • Job Creation: The tourism industry is a significant source of employment. Using ARPA funds to support the industry will help create jobs and boost the economy.
  • Increased Tourism: By promoting the tourism industry through marketing and promotional activities, more tourists will be encouraged to visit, which will boost local economies.

Conclusion

ARPA funds can indeed be used for tourism-related activities and projects. State and local governments can use these funds to support economic recovery efforts in their respective jurisdictions.

The tourism industry stands to benefit greatly from these funds, which can be used for marketing and promotion, infrastructure development, and small business support. With ample opportunities for creativity and innovation, the tourism industry can make a strong comeback from the pandemic’s impact with ARPA funding support.