PUNTA GORDA/ENGLEWOOD BEACH, Fla. – (December 2, 2025) The Charlotte County Tourist Development Council (TDC) is accepting applications for the 2026 Event Development Program (EDP). The application is available online at https://www.pureflorida.com/event-development-program/.
Applications are due no later than 5:00 p.m. on February 23 by emailing Ms. Brynja Phipps at Brynja.Phipps@PureFlorida.com. Applicants must give a brief presentation to the TDC as part of the application process.
The Charlotte County Tourism Event Development Program provides reimbursable funding to support the creation of new events taking place during low or shoulder seasons. The primary objective of this program is to help seed new events that demonstrate a significant likelihood to attract overnight visitors and enhance tourism within Charlotte County. The Program is administered through the Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Visitor and Convention Bureau (VCB).
Each applicant must meet with the program liaison or Tourism Director from the Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach VCB before the application is presented to the TDC. The presentation must include an overview of the event, how the event will be marketed, and more specifically, how the event will draw people from outside the area for overnight stays.
Funding will be contingent upon the number of applications received. Total funding available for the Summer Program (May 1 through September 30) is $20,000. Total funding available for the Annual Program is $40,000 (May 1 through December 15). The total program budget is $60,000.
Every applicant is required to attend the TDC meeting during which their application is scheduled for review. The program liaison will provide confirmation of the TDC meeting in advance of the presentation. TDC meetings are held at the Charlotte County Administration Center at 18500 Murdock Circle, Building B, Room 106. The meetings begin at 9:00 a.m.
ABOUT PUNTA GORDA/ ENGLEWOOD BEACH
Punta Gorda/ Englewood Beach is located along Florida’s Gulf Coast, surrounding the state’s second-largest harbor. This southwest Florida coastal region is known for its 830 miles of shoreline and its rich environment. Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach is located between Sarasota and Fort Myers, and it is perfect for people of all ages to relax and explore the coastal community. Whether it’s sunbathing on the beach, shelling and hunting for shark teeth, exploring mangrove tunnels, boating, or visiting one of the many parks and preserves, there is something for everyone.
To learn more about Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach, visit PureFlorida.com, call (941)743-1900 or on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @RealPureFlorida.
Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach VCB Contacts: Brynja Phipps, Project Coordinator Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Visitor & Convention
