In a transformative move to make Oregon a more welcoming place for all, the Oregon Tourism Commission—better known as Travel Oregon—has awarded nearly $6.2 million to 65 innovative projects throughout the state as part of its 2024-25 Competitive Grants Program. This substantial investment is designed to enhance access and inclusivity for travelers and communities, especially those who have been historically underserved or face barriers to experiencing the state’s abundant recreational and cultural opportunities.

Promoting Equity and Accessibility Statewide

Travel Oregon’s competitive grants program supports local governments, port districts, Tribes, and nonprofit organizations working to enrich visitor experiences and promote economic vitality. This year’s grants reflect a statewide commitment to making Oregon’s famed outdoors, heritage sites, and hospitality accessible to an increasingly diverse population of both residents and visitors.

“These transformational grant funds build upon the remarkable travel experiences available across Oregon for residents and visitors alike,” said Travel Oregon CEO Todd Davidson. “From adaptive mountain biking trails to heritage tours that share important cultural stories, these 65 projects are rewriting what it means to travel our state. We’re removing barriers to experiences that have, in the past, been out of reach for many people.”

The grants align with statewide goals, following a sharp rebound in the Oregon tourism economy post-pandemic. In 2023, visitor spending in Oregon reached an estimated $13.9 billion according to Travel Oregon’s travel impact report, supporting jobs and businesses across all seven tourism regions. With accessible tourism growing in demand, these investments position Oregon to stand out as an inclusive and responsible destination.

Examples of Inclusive Projects Funded

The 65 grant recipients represent a broad range of visions—many of which pioneer new standards in inclusive travel. Projects will advance adaptive recreational opportunities, create accessible public spaces, and celebrate diverse cultural narratives across Oregon. Here’s a closer look at a few notable grants:

• City of Gold Beach ($75,000): The city will replace the existing playground at Collier H. Buffington Memorial Park with a modern, ADA-compliant play structure. This upgrade will make the playground safer and more accessible, allowing children of all abilities and their families to play together. City Community Development Director Anthony Pagano remarked, “Thanks to this grant, we’re one step closer to building a facility that truly reflects the diverse and vibrant community of locals and visitors who love our beautiful coastal town.”
• David’s Chair Outdoor Mobility Systems ($98,900): This nonprofit’s initiative adds five electric all-terrain track chairs and a transport trailer to Oregon Coast communities including Seaside, Rockaway Beach, Pacific City, and Coos Bay. The new equipment will be available at no cost to people with limited mobility, empowering them to enjoy beaches and trails historically out of reach. Operations Manager Jeff Kallevig stated, “With the help of Travel Oregon, David’s Chair is providing access for those who need it, free of charge, via electric all-terrain track chairs. We are very grateful for this support and the more equitable community and accessibility we can create together.”
• Other Regional Projects: Funded initiatives also include adaptive mountain biking trails in Central Oregon, accessible wayfinding at state parks, bilingual interpretive signage on public lands, expansions of Indigenous-led heritage and ecotourism experiences, and sensory-friendly programming at cultural centers in the Willamette Valley and Portland Metro.

These and similar investments address the mounting enthusiasm for accessible travel, an industry segment the World Health Organization reports encompasses 15% of the world’s population.

Statewide Collaboration for Lasting Impact

The 2024-25 funding round involved an extensive review process with input from accessibility experts, community leaders, and tourism industry partners. All projects demonstrate a clear plan for implementation, a focus on underrepresented communities, and measurable outcomes in access or inclusiveness.

Travel Oregon’s grant program is part of a broader effort to rebuild and reimagine the state’s tourism sector. Since 2010, Travel Oregon has invested over $40 million in grant funding to destination development efforts. The 2024-25 grants target both large-scale initiatives and local community enhancements, ensuring an equitable distribution across urban and rural Oregon. All seven of the state’s tourism regions have representation among recipients, reinforcing a tourism ecosystem where everyone has the opportunity to participate and benefit.

The Economic Ripple Effect

Accessible tourism not only benefits travelers with disabilities but also elders, families with small children, and people from diverse backgrounds. The economic case is robust: According to the Open Doors Organization, travelers with disabilities contribute nearly $58.7 billion to the American tourism economy annually and report a strong preference for destinations that prioritize their needs.

Oregon aims to be at the forefront of this shift. Inclusive infrastructure enhances local quality of life, extends the traditional tourist season, and stimulates spending in smaller communities that might otherwise be missed by mainstream travel trends.

Current projects support job creation in recreation, hospitality, and construction sectors, help local businesses reach broader markets, and foster regional pride through the celebration of Oregon’s natural and cultural assets.

Looking Ahead: More Than Recreation

Oregon’s commitment to accessible tourism is part of a growing statewide ethic that extends beyond recreation. It represents an investment in the health, wellness, and connection of residents as well as visitors. Grant-supported projects often involve collaboration among local governments, nonprofit organizations, Tribes, and private partners, demonstrating the power of public-private partnerships to build lasting infrastructure and community engagement.

With the latest round of grants, Oregon continues to lead by example for the Pacific Northwest and beyond, providing blueprints for accessible trails, inclusive playgrounds, culturally rich attractions, and vibrant public spaces.