May 24, 2025

Shreveport-Bossier Reveals $100,000 Tourism Grant Winners

News Summary

Shreveport-Bossier has announced the winners of the $100,000 Destination 318 Tourism Grant Competition, aimed at fostering tourism-driven business development. Six local businesses were awarded grants following a competitive selection process. Kanteen Park secured the first place with a $50,000 grant for revitalizing downtown, while The Noble Pedicab and Wonder Oasis were recognized for their innovative solutions in transportation and recreational offerings. The initiative promotes local tourism and entrepreneurial spirit, with plans for future competitions.

Shreveport-Bossier Announces Winners of $100,000 Destination 318 Tourism Grant Competition

Shreveport-Bossier has revealed the winners of the $100,000 Destination 318 Tourism Grant Competition, aimed at promoting tourism-driven business development in the region. In total, six local businesses were awarded grants after a competitive selection process that involved months of idea development, workshops, and business pitches.

The first-place winner, Kanteen Park, received a grant of $50,000. Their project focuses on revitalizing an underutilized area in downtown Shreveport-Bossier by creating an open-air entertainment venue along with dining and recreational space. The vision includes a lively community hub to attract both locals and tourists.

Following closely, the second and third place winners were recognized for their contributions to enhancing the local tourism landscape. The Noble Pedicab secured $25,000 for its plans to provide safe, year-round transportation solutions in downtown. Meanwhile, Wonder Oasis received $10,000 to expand its water park offerings, which will include holiday festivals and activities throughout the year.

The competition also highlighted other promising projects. Roots, a cultural center dedicated to culinary and performing arts, was awarded $7,500 for its innovative approach to cultural tourism. Port City Pedal Tours received $5,000 and offers guided tours on multi-seater, group-powered pedal vehicles. Lastly, SB Rides was granted $2,500 for providing small guided bicycle tours for groups of up to 25 people.

In addition to the financial grants, Port City Pedal Tours won the People’s Choice Award of $2,000, determined by public voting, showcasing community support for their unique tourism offering.

The Destination 318 competition was initiated by Visit Shreveport-Bossier in partnership with the Entrepreneurial Accelerator Program (EAP). The program seeks to elevate local entrepreneurs’ voices while bolstering the regional economy. It was open to individuals and businesses dedicated to creating or enhancing tourism experiences in the Shreveport-Bossier area.

Participants were required to attend three mandatory workshops that focused on business model development, marketing strategies, and sustainable growth. The submissions ranged from existing businesses to new startups, reflecting diverse tourism opportunities that can be developed in the region.

Destination 318 aims to generate jobs and improve community opportunities by fostering tourism-related business ventures. The competition has successfully ignited interest in local entrepreneurial spirit while harnessing the unique characteristics of Shreveport-Bossier.

Looking ahead, plans are underway to hold the Destination 318 competition annually, with further announcements regarding future events expected later in the week.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Winners Announced for Destination 318 Tourism Competition
Destination 318 Shreveport-Bossier Tourism Challenge Concludes
Bossier City Opens New Outdoor Adventure Hub
Shreveport Welcomes New Leadership and Initiatives
Louisiana State University Enhances Online Education Facilities
Shreveport-Bossier Launches ‘Destination 318’ Tourism Challenge
Shreveport-Bossier Launches New Business Challenge with Grants
Shreveport-Bossier Launches New Competition to Enhance Tourism
Shreveport-Bossier Launches ‘Destination 318’ Competition for Entrepreneurs

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER

The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.

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