Choose Chicago Awarded $5.5M to Expand Neighborhood Tourism

CNW Staff Report

Choose Chicago President and CEO Lynn Osmond is thrilled to announce that Choose Chicago has been awarded $5.5 million to expand its neighborhood tourism initiatives. Funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) through the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), this grant increases CC’s funding by over 160% and will allow Choose Chicago to increase its efforts to develop, implement and manage a unified and comprehensive tourism marketing strategy to position Chicago and its neighborhoods as prime destinations for residents and visitors alike.

“The culture and vibrancy of Chicago can be found beyond our traditional tourist locations,” said Mayor Lightfoot. “Each of our 77 unique neighborhoods are home to rich histories, world-class cuisine, and entertainment that tourists should experience. I’m continually grateful for ARPA funding that allows us to continue our equitable economic recovery by supporting our neighborhoods and the local organizations who uplift them.”

This three-year grant is distributed by DCASE as part of the Chicago Recovery Plan, the City’s plan to amplify once-in-a generation federal funding through ARPA to create an equity-based investment strategy that catalyzes a sustainable economic recovery from the

COVID-19 pandemic.

“Tourism has always been a critical economic engine of Chicago, and the COVID-19 pandemic showed just how important tourism is for our city,” said Lynn Osmond, President and CEO of Choose Chicago. “Now, we must take this opportunity to invest in our neighborhoods and ensure that tourism dollars are delivered equitably to all Chicagoans.”

“Through the Chicago Recovery Plan we have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to invest in Chicago in an equitable and sustainable way,” said Erin Harkey, Commissioner of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events. “We are thrilled to support Choose Chicago as they commit to neighborhood tourism and deliver the economic benefits of tourism to every corner of our city.”

“Over the last two years, we have worked tirelessly to build relationships across the city, relying on the premise that Chicagoans know their own neighborhoods better than anyone else, and certainly better than us at the tourism bureau,” said Rob Fojtik, Vice President, Neighborhood Strategy at Choose Chicago.

”Chicago’s neighborhoods are key to our authenticity as a city for locals and visitors alike,” said Rhonda Mc-

Farland, Executive Director of the Quad Communities Development Corporation. “When done properly, neighborhood tourism can bring substantial benefits and add to the vibrancy of our neighborhoods.”

“Chicago is a city brimming with stories - from the diverse and dynamic businesses, its rich and vibrant history,” said Michael Fassnacht, President & CEO, of World Business Chicago and Chief Marketing Officer, City of Chicago. “What truly sets Chicago apart is our shared commitment to diversity, inclusion, and the empowerment of women and diverse-owned businesses. These values are at the heart of our story and are what makes Chicago such a special place. We are excited to share these stories with the world and showcase all that our city has to offer.”

To learn more about Choose Chicago and our neighborhood programs, go to www.choosechicago.com/ neighborhoods.