City of Spokane Tourism and Cultural Investment Committee Wins State Tourism Award
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~ The City of Spokane's Tourism and Cultural Investment (TACI) Grants Committee has been recognized for their efforts in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the city's tourism industry. The committee was recently awarded the Washington State Tourism Award for Advancements in DEI.

According to Erin Hut, Communications Director for the city, the TACI Committee was revived by Mayor Lisa Brown in 2024 after being dormant for two years. Councilmember Zack Zappone and Visit Spokane CEO Rose Noble then worked together to strategically reshape the committee and grant applications, ensuring that lodging tax dollars were compliant with state laws requiring tourism promotion that drives overnight hotel stays.

Funding for TACI grants comes from a state law that established a lodging excise tax paid per bed stay at local hotels. This revenue is then used to fund opportunities that enhance Spokane's tourism and cultural environment.

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Some recent recipients of TACI grants include events such as Tacos y Tequila, Boomjam Music and Arts Festival, Garland Pride, Blue Door Theatre, South Perry Street Fair, Curators of Sound Concert Series, dom+bomb Fashion Shot, City of Spokane special event barricades, and Terrain Flagship.

Mayor Brown expressed her gratitude for receiving this award and highlighted the importance of reinvesting these funds back into the community. She stated that events like Tacos y Tequila and South Perry Street Fair are unique to Spokane and help strengthen the sense of connection within the city.

Councilmember Zappone also shared his excitement about winning this award and emphasized how it showcases the impact of these investments in promoting diversity within Spokane. He believes that this recognition reaffirms the significance of these efforts.

The City of Spokane is proud to receive this award and is committed to continuing their efforts in promoting diversity within their tourism industry. These grants not only support cultural events but also contribute to making Spokane a special place for both residents and visitors.

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