by Jessica Schroeder, USTA Outreach & Membership Enrichment Coordinator

Columbus, OH — The deadline is fast approaching for Matching Funds Grant applications. In order to be considered for 2013, all applications must be postmarked by May 15.

The Matching Funds Grant program was started in 2006 to help individual county fairs, horsemen’s associations and colt circuits promote racing at the fair level. Each applicant can apply for up to $2,500 in assistance from the USTA; the applying entity has to contribute as much as they are applying for, either with cash or by receiving sponsorships or in kind donations.

Previous applicants have used their promotional money to:

• offer grandstand giveaways such as seat cushions, t-shirts, hats and gift cards
• invest in mascots or bouncy ponies
• advertise through newspaper, radio, tv, bus and/or billboard
• participate in local events such as parades and farm open houses
• put on a how to bet seminar and give away betting vouchers

For more information about fairs across the country, including race dates and locations, promotional ideas, information on how to put on a race meet and local resources, visit fairs.ustrotting.com.

For more information about the Matching Funds Grant program, contact Jessica Schroeder at 877.800.8782, ext.3212 or e-mail jessica.schroeder@ustrotting.com.