Mystic — The Eastern Regional Tourism District will distribute $50,000 in grants to six entities that submitted plans for tourism marketing initiatives in the region.

Mystic River Heritage Foundation, The Last Green Valley, City of New London, Thames River Heritage Foundation, Putnam Business Association and the Think Mystic partnership were chosen to receive grants.

Mystic River Heritage Foundation will receive $10,000, and each of the others will receive $8,000.

“The Eastern Regional Tourism District is pleased that we are able to help organizations that otherwise may not have the money to market their venues for visitors to find and enjoy,” said Jim Bellano, the district’s chairman. “These six entities have put together plans that align with our 2022 plans to market the amazing tourism experiences here in eastern Connecticut.”

The ERTD Marketing Committee considered 10 applications. Eastern Connecticut businesses, nonprofits, and municipalities were encouraged to develop and submit marketing proposals.

“This matching grant program leverages our public tax dollars for greater private sector investment, which provides for a stronger tourism marketing campaign for the region,” said Chris Regan, chairman of the marketing committee. 

Grant recipients are required to submit a final report to the ERTD documenting their use of grant funds.