Gov. Mike Dunleavy announced two grants to continue the economic recovery for the $4.5 billion Alaska tourism industry. He announced a $5 million federal grant in his proposed fiscal year 2023 budget, directed to the Alaska Travel Industry Association, and highlighted a recently approved $10.5 million federal grant he designated to the tourism association in September. The $5 million grant designated by Gov. Dunleavy in his FY23 budget from the American Rescue Plan Act is subject to legislative approval. His budget also will seek an extra $1 million for the State Parks to ensure the facilities are clean and accessible for in and out-of-state visitors.
Three local entities received competitive tourism marketing grants for the COVID-safe campaign. They include the Kenai Peninsula Tourism Marketing Council ($410,000), Homer Chamber of Commerce and Visitor’s Center ($253,489), and the Seward Chamber of Commerce ($179,000).
Looking ahead to 2022, the Alaska tourism industry is expecting the number of returning cruise ships to hit an all-time high. A normal season sees around 30 ships. In addition, international air service returns in the summer with Iceland, Germany, and Canada restoring connecting flights in Anchorage and a potential for new service for South Korea and Japan.
