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Bloomington-Normal, Illinois

Partners in Promotions

Program Overview

At VisitBN, we believe events are essential to what makes Bloomington-Normal and McLean County vibrant places to live, visit, and celebrate. Our Partners in Promotions program supports events that strengthen community pride, enhance quality of life, and help attract visitors to our destination.

Through this program, VisitBN partners with a wide range of event organizers, from those launching new ideas to those leading long-standing community traditions. Support is designed to help events grow awareness, increase attendance, and create meaningful experiences that benefit both residents and visitors.

What We Look For
  • A strong connection to the Bloomington-Normal and McLean County community
  • The ability to draw visitors from outside the area or grow into a larger regional attraction
  • A positive impact on local culture, tourism, and economic activity
How We Support Events

Our role is to amplify events that showcase the spirit of our community. This may include promotional support, strategic collaboration, and destination marketing designed to elevate visibility and long-term success.

By investing in events at all stages of development, VisitBN helps build a dynamic calendar of experiences that reflect who we are: welcoming, creative, and a bucket-list destination.

Partners in Promotions is one of the ways VisitBN fulfills its mission: supporting our local partners while positioning Bloomington-Normal as a destination people are excited to explore and return to.

Application Process

The application timeline has been structured to align with the fiscal year, ensuring
consistency and organization. This gives applicants the opportunity to submit their
applications up to a year before their event.

Download Application

Application Phase 1 Timeline: -Applications will begin starting March 1st of each year. -Applications must be submitted no later than May 31st of each year to be considered for funding within the current fiscal year. -VisitBN Staff will review applications in June. -VisitBN Board of Directors will approve/deny applications in July.

Application Phase 2 Timeline: -Applications will begin starting September 1st of each year. -Applications must be submitted no later than November 30th of each year to be considered for funding within the current fiscal year. -VisitBN Staff will review applications in December. -VisitBN Board of Directors will approve/deny applications in January.

2026 Approved Events
Post-event Evaluation & Future Funding

Partners in Promotions (PIP) recipients may benefit from the program for up to three years. If an event shows measurable growth or impact before or by the three-year mark, it may transition into the Event Sponsorship category for continued review and support. Funding consideration is only provided for annual events for a consecutive period up to three years.