Visit Hood River’s Community Investment Grant Program Awards Nearly $27,000 in Matching Funds to Three Local Organizations
From Visit Hood River:
By Katie Kadlub
Hood River, Ore., Oct. 17, 2025 — Visit Hood River has awarded $26,800 in matching funds to three local organizations through its annual Community Investment Grant Program. Designed to support small businesses and promote long-term economic vitality in the greater Hood River area, the program provides matching grants to projects that enhance, promote, and sustain Hood River as a vibrant destination, contributing to the community's growth and well-being.
“Visit Hood River is proud to continue supporting impactful projects that strengthen our economy and enhance livability through the Community Investment Grant Program,” said Katie Kadlub, CEO of Visit Hood River. “Over the past four years, this program has helped bring new events, programs, and initiatives to life—ensuring a vibrant and thriving future for Hood River by reinvesting in the community and organizations that make it so special.”
The recipients of this year's Community Investment Grant Program funds include:
Pedal and Paddle Hood River ($17,500): Funds will support the purchase of a passenger van to expand guided eBike tours.
Wylde, Wind & Water ($3,300): Funds will support inclusive watersports programming (free women’s clinics, youth events, safety videos, and public amenities).
Cari Jewelry Boutique ($6,000): Funds will support the expansion of an interactive visitor experience with a second welding station and new marketing campaigns.
“Pedal & Paddle Hood River is incredibly grateful for the support from the Visit Hood River Community Investment Grant Program, which is helping us expand both accessibility and capacity for Hood River E-Bike Tours,” said Todd Anderson, owner and guide at Pedal & Paddle Hood River. “The new van made possible through this grant will allow us to offer even greater access to tours that combine adventure, storytelling, and the breathtaking landscapes of our one-of-a-kind region. This program not only enhances the experience we’re able to provide our guests, but also supports our efforts to continue sharing and celebrating the place we’re proud to call home.”
Visit Hood River's mission is to inspire and sustain economic vitality and responsible destination development as stewards of community resources in partnership with local leaders. Entrusted with public and private funds, Visit Hood River is committed to developing, executing, measuring, communicating, and providing ongoing accountability for programs designed to support a robust and enduring economy for businesses, residents, and guests.
For more information on Visit Hood River and Hood River County Chamber of Commerce, visit www.visithoodriver.com.
About the Hood River County Chamber of Commerce and Visit Hood River:
Located at the crossroads of the spectacular Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and the magnificent Cascade Range and just an hour from Portland, Hood River offers outdoor recreation, dramatic vistas, historic landmarks, bountiful fruit, and fantastic food, wine, beer, and cider. With accommodations ranging from luxury hotels to historic B&Bs, Hood River is a four-season destination for families, outdoor enthusiasts, weddings, corporate events, and more. It was named a Best Adventure and Explorations Town by the 2023 Sunset Travel Awards and Nature Lovers Destination in the 2022 Sunset Travel Awards, a Top 10 Wine Destination for 2017 by Wine Enthusiast Magazine, and 2015 Best Adventure Town in the West by Sunset magazine. Visit Hood River supports economic development, community development, and destination marketing for Hood River, Cascade Locks, Mosier, Odell, Parkdale, Pine Grove, and Mount Hood. For more information, call 800-366-3530 or visit www.visithoodriver.com.
