The prize was awarded for the first time in 2022. In 2026, the award will once again honour individuals or institutions that have promoted tourism in the county through special commitment, creativity or particularly innovative ideas, thereby acting as a role model for others working in tourism in the county.
The prize is not an innovation prize or an award for tourism offers or life's work, but is intended to recognise the successful work of individual players or institutions for tourism in the county. The award is intended to highlight the commitment and special merits of those involved in tourism. The award also offers the opportunity to promote tourism in the county.
It is important to the stakeholders at Grafschaft Bentheim Tourismus e.V. that the award covers the entire spectrum of tourism and emphasises its diversity. This means that in addition to the classic areas of accommodation and catering, day trip destinations as well as the cultural and event sector are also addressed. Applications from small businesses or even "lone fighters" are expressly encouraged.
Individuals or organisations (e.g. associations) can nominate themselves or be nominated. Anyone wishing to make a proposal should submit it in writing with a brief explanation to Grafschaft Bentheim Tourismus e.V., NINO-Allee 2, 48529 Nordhorn or to the email address tourismus@grafschaft.de by 25 April 2026.
The winner of the Grafschafter Tourismuspreis is then decided by a five-member committee. The award winner receives a marketing package as a prize, which includes media coverage, a presentation in the GBT's social media, promotional material such as a logo "Honoured with the GTP" and a short video about the award winner.