RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Local tourism initiatives statewide, including five in Central Virginia, are set to receive funds through a state program aimed at supporting small businesses and attractions. According to a Wednesday, Oct. 14 release from the Governor's Office, the Microbusiness Marketing L everage Program (MMLP) will award $205,300 in grant funds to 46 tourism marketing programs, which will be matched by more than $273,130 in funding from local partners. Among these 46 programs are five food, drink and entertainment programs throughout Central Virginia. This includes Southern Revere Cellars in Louisa County, The Market at Grelen and Country Cookin Depot, both in Orange County, and The Front Porch winter concert season and C-Ville Bites food tours and cooking classes, both in Charlottesville. The funds will also support other small businesses, chambers of commerce and downtown business associations to attract visitors and increase tourism spending during the holiday, late winter and spring break seasons, the release said. “Virginia’s tourism industry is driven by the small businesses, local attractions, and welcoming communities that make our home such an incredible place to visit,” Gov. Abigail Spanberger said in the release. “I’m proud to help support these communities by making sure they have the resources to thrive even during slower months.” According to the release, the 46 programs receiving funds will also support 276 tourism partners and over 130 full-time and 250 part-time jobs statewide. A full list of the grant recipients is available here. ...read more read less