Summary
The program provides funding of up to $5,000 per organization to support marketing and promotional efforts that attract visitors to Starkville and Oktibbeha County
Up to $5,000 available for events and organizations that drive tourism to Starkville
STARKVILLE, Miss. (August 2026) — The Starkville Visitors and Convention Council (VCC) today announced that applications are now open for its FY2026-27 Sponsorship Grant Program. The program provides up to $5,000 in funding per organization to support marketing and promotional efforts that attract visitors to Starkville and Oktibbeha County.
The priority application deadline is August 31, 2026. Applications may be submitted online.
Eligible Projects
Eligible applicants include festivals, events, museums, historical sites, sporting facilities, and other organizations whose primary mission is promoting Starkville to out-of-town visitors. Projects must target audiences from more than 50 miles away or out of state, and must take place between October 1, 2026, and September 30, 2027.
Use of Funds
Grant funds may be used for traditional and digital advertising, brochures, signage, and event or exhibit production costs. General operating expenses and salaries are not eligible.
Past Recipients
Past recipients of the VCC Sponsorship Grant include the Mississippi Horse Park, Oktibbeha County Heritage Museum, Starkville Area Arts Council, Starkville Community Theater, the Frostbite Half Marathon, the Charles H. Templeton Ragtime and Jazz Festival, and the Rotary Classic Rodeo.
How to Apply
Applications submitted by August 31 will receive priority consideration. Grant recipients will be notified by September 30, 2026. If funds remain after the priority deadline, applications will be accepted on a rolling basis throughout the fiscal year.
For more information or to apply, visit starkville.org or contact Paige Hunt at phunt@starkville.org or 662.323.3322.
About the Starkville Visitors and Convention Council The Starkville VCC is the official destination marketing organization for the City of Starkville, Mississippi. It promotes Starkville to leisure, convention, and group travelers and works to grow tourism and economic activity in the region.
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