Accessibility Program & Grant Application

South Haven is taking meaningful steps toward becoming a more inclusive and accessible destination for all visitors. Through the Visit South Haven Accessibility Grant Program, local nonprofits have the opportunity to secure funding for projects that enhance accessibility, ensuring that more people can experience the charm and beauty of our community without barriers. These initiatives, funded through dedicated tourism dollars, highlight the South Haven Visitors Bureau’s ongoing commitment to fostering a destination that is both enjoyable and accessible for all.

Pictured Above

Motivational & TEDx Speaker Alycia Anderson enjoying a sunny day on South Pier.

Beach Accessibility Improvement

To make South Haven’s beautiful beaches more accessible, Visit South Haven has donated two beach wheelchairs to the City of South Haven. These specially designed chairs allow individuals with mobility challenges to easily navigate the sand and reach the water, ensuring that everyone can experience the joy of Lake Michigan. Whether it’s feeling the waves, enjoying a beachside sunset, or spending time with family and friends, these chairs help make unforgettable moments possible for all visitors.

The beach wheelchairs will be available at South Beach, with SOHA Surf Shop generously managing the reservation system at no cost to users. More details on how to reserve a beach wheelchair will be available soon.

Pictured Above

A powered beach wheelchair from Michigan Trackchair, available through Visit South Haven, offers greater accessibility for enjoying the lakeshore.

Visit South Haven Accessibility Grant Program Application

The Visit South Haven Accessibility Grant Program is designed to support local nonprofits in making South Haven a more accessible destination for all visitors. This matching grant program offers up to $5,000 in funding for projects that improve accessibility, including physical upgrades like ramps and accessible seating, communication tools such as Braille signage and hearing loops, and sensory-friendly initiatives. By investing in these improvements, Visit South Haven aims to create a more inclusive experience for residents and visitors alike. Grant applications are now open, with a submission deadline of April 30, 2025.


Application Process


1. Application Deadline: All applications must be submitted by April 30, 2025.

2. Eligibility Requirements: To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria.

  • Be a registered nonprofit organization in good standing.
  • Demonstrate a clear connection between accessibility improvements and tourism growth (i.e., attracting visitors, enhancing visitor experiences, or increasing overnight stays).
  • Propose projects that focus on physical, technological, or programmatic accessibility improvements.
  • Submit only one application per nonprofit organization. Routine maintenance and repairs are not eligible for funding.

3. Application Submission: Applicants must provide the following materials.

  • A completed Visit South Haven Accessibility Grant Program application form.
  • A detailed project plan outlining:
    • Specific accessibility improvements to be made.
    • How the project will increase tourism, visitation, or overnight stays.
    • Who will benefit from the project (e.g., visitors with mobility, vision, hearing, or cognitive disabilities).
    • An itemized budget for the project, including total project cost and the nonprofit’s matching contribution.
    • Applications will be evaluated based on feasibility, tourism impact, and enhancement of visitor accessibility.


Matching Funds


The Visit South Haven Accessibility Grant Program provides a dollar-for-dollar match for approved projects. The maximum matching grant is $5,000. For example:

  • If a project costs $8,000, the grant will match up to $4,000.
  • If a project costs $10,000 or more, the maximum grant match is $5,000.
  • Grant recipients must contribute an amount equal to or greater than the awarded grant funds.


Selection Process


1. Notification of Award
Selected applicants will be notified by May 15, 2025. Grant amounts will be determined based on the project scope and available funds.

2. Grant Agreement
Award recipients must sign an agreement outlining grant terms, reimbursement procedures, and reporting requirements.


Project Completion Guidelines


1. Project Completion Deadline: All projects must be completed by March 31, 2026.

2. Project Scope and Compliance

  • Projects must align with the approved application scope.
  • Any major changes in scope or budget must receive prior approval.
  • Projects should comply with ADA or other relevant accessibility standards to ensure meaningful improvements.

3. Photo Documentation Requirement

Grant recipients must submit photos of the completed project to demonstrate the impact of the improvements. These photos may be used for grant reporting and promotional purposes by Visit South Haven.


Reimbursement Process


1. Reimbursement Requirements
Grant funds will be disbursed on a reimbursement basis. The nonprofit is responsible for covering initial expenses.

  • Reimbursement requests must be submitted by March 31, 2026. Late submissions will not be considered.
  • Only expenses directly related to the approved project will be reimbursed.

2. Required Documentation. Applicants must provide:

  • Itemized receipts for all purchases, with descriptions of the items/services.
  • Proof of payment, such as canceled checks or credit card statements.
  • A Project Completion Report detailing:
    • How the project improved visitor accessibility.
    • How the improvements support tourism and increase visitation.
    • Photo documentation of completed work.
    • Any measurable impact (e.g., visitor feedback, increased attendance).

3. Reimbursement Processing

  • Reimbursement claims will be processed within 30 days of submission, provided all document ation is complete.
  • Funds will only be reimbursed up to the approved grant amount. Any additional costs are theresponsibility of the grant recipient.


Examples of Eligible Accessibility Projects

The following project types align with Visit South Haven’s mission and accessibility goals while contributing to tourism growth:


Physical Access Improvements

  • Accessible Entrances: Install automated doors, ramps, and widened pathways.
  • Accessible Seating: Improve seating at tourism attractions, parks, or performance venues.
  • Accessible Restrooms: Upgrade public restrooms with grab bars, lower sinks, and automatic doors.

Communication & Wayfinding Enhancements

  • Braille & Tactile Signage: Improve navigation for visitors with visual impairments.
  • Hearing Loop Systems: Equip public venues with hearing loops for guests with hearing aids.
  • Website Accessibility: Enhance digital access by following WCAG standards.

Recreational & Cultural Accessibility

  • Adaptive Equipment Rentals: Provide wheelchairs, all-terrain beach chairs, or adaptive bicycles.
  • Sensory-Friendly Initiatives: Create sensory-friendly spaces or programs for neurodivergent
    visitors.
  • Accessible Trail Improvements: Enhance access to nature trails and outdoor attractions.

Event Accessibility Enhancements

  • ASL Interpreters & Captioning Services: Ensure live performances and events are inclusive.
  • Assistive Listening Devices: Provide audio assistance at museums, theaters, and visitor centers.
  • Transport Solutions: Improve accessibility of local transit services used by visitors.



Additional Conditions


1. Sustainability Commitment
Grant recipients must maintain and sustain funded projects for at least five years after completion.

2. Publicity & Acknowledgment
Visit South Haven may feature funded projects in promotional materials, and recipients may be asked to provide testimonials or photos.

3. Audit Rights
Visit South Haven reserves the right to review documentation, conduct site visits, or request additional verification of project implementation.


Key Deadlines Summary

Application Submission April 30, 2025

Notification of Award May 15, 2025

Project Completion March 31, 2026

Final Reimbursement Requests March 31, 2026


Contact Information

For questions about eligibility, application requirements, or the reimbursement process, please contact:
Jen Sistrunk
jsistrunk@southhaven.org
(269) 637-5252

Click Here to Apply!