Visit Keweenaw Photo This image was taken during the Hanock Lights the Night holiday event. The event was one of recipients of a grant from Visit Keweenaw's Destination Development Fund. Applications are now open for 2026 projects.

HOUGHTON — Visit Keweenaw is officially seeking applications for its 2026 Destination Development Fund to support projects that enhance the region’s appeal for both visitors and residents. According to a press release from Visit Keweenaw, the Destination Development Fund is a reinvestment in the community, powered by room night stays at Visit Keweenaw’s 40+ lodging member properties. In 2025, the program distributed over $100,000 to nonprofits and outdoor recreation coalitions across Houghton and Keweenaw Counties. These funds supported a diverse array of initiatives, including new trail developments, historic interpretive signage, and downtown enhancements.

“The Destination Development Fund has become a cornerstone of our efforts to grow the Keweenaw responsibly,” said Brad Barnett, executive director of Visit Keweenaw. “It’s truly an awesome program because it allows us to partner directly with the organizations that know our landscape best. By turning tourism dollars back into local infrastructure–like new trail segments or heritage preservation–we’re not just building a better vacation spot; we’re creating a more vibrant, high-quality place for our residents to call home.”

The fund has historically supported projects that improve outdoor recreation access and preserve local heritage. Notable past recipients include:

• Copper Country Trail National Byway: $27,000 for wayfinding signage

• Swedetown Recreation Area: $35,000 for a new, barrier-free, beginner-level biking and hiking trail

• City of Hancock: $15,000 for seasonal Hancock Lights the Night Christmas lights experience

• Painesdale Mine & Shaft: $4,900 for interpretive signage that allows visitors to connect with local history year-round

• Main Street Calumet: $8,000 for downtown seating and planters to enhance the visitor experience

Visit Keweenaw encourages organizations to submit well-detailed project plans including goals, budgets, and timelines. Applications are reviewed based on their potential to enhance the Keweenaw’s appeal while aligning with the organization’s mission. Application deadline is March 31, with projects encouraged to be completed by Sept. 30 of this year.

For more information on the application process and to view full criteria, please visit www.visitkeweenaw.com. Potential applicants are encouraged to reach out to Visit Keweenaw with questions and project ideas. Questions can be sent to Brad Barnett at bbarnett@visitkeweenaw.com or 906.337.4579.