Festival Advertising Grants Program, 15 CAR pt. 370

The Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, Tourism Division, proposes amendments to its Festival Advertising Grants 20 Program. This update includes an adjustment to the allocation of matching grant funds, allowing for increased eligibility for applicants, and clarifies the program deadlines. The division is moving to an online application and management process for these grants. The amendments to the rule reflect the new digital method used for all aspects of the application process and other required digital submissions for grant distribution.

There was no public hearing held. The public comment period closed on September 22, 2025. The agency indicated that it received no public comments. Jason Kearney, an attorney with the Bureau of Legislative Research, asked the following questions and was provided with the following agency responses: 1. In 15 CAR § 370-104, the amended rule provides that, beginning in fiscal year 2027, the application period will open annually in January of each year. What application period will be in effect prior to fiscal year 2027, assuming that the rule goes into effect as amended? RESPONSE: The current application time frame will stay in place until then. The new system will begin in FY27. 2. Is there an application deadline, or closing date, for the application period set out in the amended rule? RESPONSE: There is no closing date to the application process. The application will simply open in January, and recipient notifications will go out in May with funding available in July.

• Rule packet: C.5.a. DPHT TD Festival Advertising Grants Program
• ALC summary agenda Nov 20, 2025
• ALC agenda Nov 20, 2025
• ALC meeting video Nov 20, 2025
• Arkansas Register, December 2025