Boston and Berkshire County — On Wednesday, November 12, the Healey-Driscoll administration announced $6.34 million in grants to 65 tourism and cultural development projects through the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism’s (MOTT) Destination Development Capital (DDC) Grant Program.
According to a press release issued to announce the awards, the program supports projects that expand, construct, restore, or renovate tourism destinations and attractions across the state, strengthening regional economies and improving the visitor experience.
“These grants reflect our vision for a Massachusetts where every region, every town, and every community has the opportunity to shine,” Gov. Maura Healey said. “By investing in the organizations that drive our tourism economy, we’re creating lasting opportunities for local businesses, residents, and visitors alike. These projects ensure that Massachusetts remains a desirable destination for people and businesses from around the world for generations to come.”
“Tourism fuels connection. When we invest in our destinations, our downtowns, trails, museums, and waterfronts, we’re investing in the small businesses, workers, and families who bring these places to life,” Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll said. “These grants strengthen the fabric of our communities, helping more people share in the opportunities that a vibrant visitor economy creates.”
The Fiscal 2026 Destination Development Capital grants are part of the administration’s broader strategy to grow the state’s visitor economy through long-term capital investments. These projects expand the state’s tourism infrastructure, enhance accessibility and sustainability, and preserve the cultural, historic, and natural assets that make Massachusetts a world-class destination. Funded initiatives this year include upgrades to museums and performing arts venues, revitalization of historic sites and visitor centers, energy-efficiency improvements, and the creation of new public spaces and outdoor recreation amenities that support year-round tourism and local economic growth.
“These grants strengthen the communities that help us tell the story of Massachusetts’ rich history, beautiful present, and our position as a global leader into the future,” Secretary of Economic Development Eric Paley said. “By investing in the experiences that draw people here, we’re supporting local jobs, featuring innovation, and ensuring that Massachusetts continues to stand out as a place where creativity and commerce thrive together.”
Tourism is a critical pillar of Massachusetts’ economy. In 2024, the Commonwealth welcomed more than 31 million domestic and international visitors, generating an estimated $27.6 billion in direct spending, supporting more than 130,000 jobs, and contributing $2.3 billion in state and local tax revenue.
Investments in visitor-facing infrastructure generate jobs in hospitality, construction, transportation, and the cultural sector; boost state and local tax revenue; and support small businesses across every region. By enabling enhanced destinations and elevated visitor experiences, the fiscal 2026 grants aim to help regions, from Boston to the Berkshires, realize a greater share of the visitor economy while preserving and enhancing the state’s unique assets.
“Tourism is built on experiences large and small that make a visit to Massachusetts unforgettable,” said Kate Fox, executive director of the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism. “It might be a walk through a historic town square, a concert on the village green, or a conversation with a local shop owner. These capital grants help communities strengthen those moments, creating places where visitors feel connected and welcomed. By investing holistically in our tourism infrastructure, we’re ensuring Massachusetts remains a destination that feels both world-class and wonderfully human.”
Berkshire County grant awardees:
- Berkshire Botanical Garden, Stockbridge, $90,000 for Glass House project
- Berkshire Natural Resources Council, Berkshire County, $180,000 for Berkshire Outdoors Visitor Experience improvements
- Boston Symphony Orchestra, Lenox and Stockbridge, $100,000 for solar energy installation at Tanglewood
- City of North Adams, $50,000 for Heritage State Park bandstand recreation project
- DuBois Freedom Center, Great Barrington, $155,000 for DuBois Freedom Center Museum at the historic Clinton AME Zion Church
- Hancock Shaker Village, Hancock and Pittsfield, $190,000 for visitor center
- Lee Chamber of Commerce, $7,000 for website revamp
- Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art Foundation, North Adams, $190,000 for elevator repair and modernization
- New England Mountain Bike Association – Purple Valley Chapter, Williamstown, $55,000 for Purple Valley trails
- Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute, Williamstown, $125,000 for security video surveillance and recording system
- The Adams Theater Presents, Adams, $27,000 for essential infrastructure improvements for the Adams Theater facade and lobby
- The Mount, Lenox, $125,000 for facilities building
- Ventfort Hall Association, Lenox, $48,000 for Ventfort Hall Salon Restoration
- Williamstown Rural Lands, $155,000 for Sheep Hill campus restorations
