UWF OEDE to launch matching-grant program for marketing services

“This program is designed to support municipalities and economic development organizations in Northwest Florida both by defining the economic competitive advantages of our region and promoting those advantages to the world – all while connecting UWF faculty, staff and students more closely to the regional economy,” said Brice Harris, director of strategic initiatives with OEDE.

The $250,000 program, called the Northwest Florida Asset Valuation and Marketing Support Program, provides participants with funding to help offset the cost of hiring UWF faculty, staff and students to conduct market studies, create promotional campaigns and deliver other services that enhance the marketability of locales and geography-based assets throughout Northwest Florida.

Individual awards will be no larger than $20,000, and participating organizations must contribute at least $1 for every dollar awarded through the program.

The program is not open to for-profit organizations. OEDE will continue to accept applications until all the money allocated to the program is used.

“Everyone benefits from this program – from the faculty and staff who wield the exceptional skills to the students who gain hands-on, real-world experience, to the recipient of UWF work products,” Harris said. “We are very excited to launch this innovative endeavor.”

Interested parties may review and download the request for participation by visiting the OEDE website, www.uwf.edu/oede.