PIERRE, S.D.(Press Release) – Governor Kristi Noem celebrated National Travel and Tourism Week. The governor visited travel and tourism businesses in the Black Hills. Photos from her visits can be found here.

“I have always said that South Dakota is the greatest state in the nation, and now people all over America are learning what we have known all along,” said Governor Noem. “Last year, we welcomed 14.4 million visitors to South Dakota. We broke records, and we are already tracking to do so again in the travel and tourism industry this year.”

Governor Noem also announced a new Tourism Advertising Promotion Grant Fund. This fund will be available to tourism-related businesses and destination marketing organizations to help support the marketing of activities and events across the state. This competitive grant fund will work to invite visitors to destinations across the state and into South Dakota’s more rural communities. Applications and more information will be available in July.

“I am excited to welcome people from all across the country and around the world to beautiful South Dakota,” continued Governor Noem. “National Travel and Tourism Week celebrates the great impact that tourism has on our state and local economies. This week, we are so grateful for everyone that plays a part in that success.”