Experience Fayetteville launches event fund

Experience Fayetteville, the city’s tourism marketing agency, announced Monday (Feb. 16) that it has launched the Favoriteville Festival Fund to provide financial support to festivals and events, particularly during slower tourism seasons.

The fund will provide post-event financial support for up to two festivals each year. The aim is to attract events during quieter periods and create new experiences for visitors and residents in Fayetteville. Revenue from the city’s 2% lodging and restaurant tax will support the event fund.

“The events that define Fayetteville are built by people willing to take creative risks,” said Ryan Hauck, CEO of Experience Fayetteville. “The Favoriteville Festival Fund is about backing those organizers with smart, responsible support, especially during times of year when tourism traditionally slows. This is an investment in creativity, community, and the long-term health of our local event ecosystem.”

The new fund is expected to provide margin protection post-event to reduce the financial risk associated with producing festivals and events.

During the application process, organizers submit a projected event budget that includes a profit margin target. After the event, Experience Fayetteville staff review income and expenses. If the event does not meet the agreed-upon margin, the fund may reimburse up to 30% of eligible expenses, up to $30,000, to help close the gap.

“This model allows us to support high-quality events while remaining fiscally responsible,” Hauck said. “It’s about accountability, transparency, and encouraging thoughtful risk, not underwriting losses without a plan.”

According to a news release, priority consideration will be given to events that:
• Take place during slower tourism seasons, including late January–early February and late June–early August,
• Demonstrate economic impact and financial responsibility, and
• Celebrate Fayetteville’s unique identity, creativity and sense of place.

The Favoriteville Festival Fund is administered through an annual application process. Proposals are evaluated on event viability, economic and cultural impact, financial responsibility, organizer experience, access and inclusion efforts, and when events take place.

Applications are reviewed by a selection committee comprising two Fayetteville Advertising and Promotion commissioners and two Experience Fayetteville staff. Recommendations are presented to the Fayetteville Advertising and Promotion Commission for approval. Selected events will be required to complete a memorandum of understanding and post-event reporting.

“By lowering financial barriers and supporting bold, community-focused ideas, we’re helping new traditions take root,” Hauck said. “This is how Fayetteville continues to grow as a place of connection, creativity and celebration.”

Additional details, application materials and deadlines will be announced at a later date. Link here for more information.