Northern Ireland economy minister Diane Dodds has launched a new Tourism NI programme to provide financial assistance to help tourism providers create experiences that reflect the "Northern Ireland - Embrace A Giant Spirit" experience brand.
The programme offers capital grants of up to £200,000 to help tourism experience providers develop new and enhanced tourism offerings that will support recovery and growth.
The programme also allows for up to 80% funding for private/voluntary sector organisations as well as up to 50% for the public sector towards eligible costs of implementing these enhancements.
The maximum amount of grant funding available under the programme for any one project is £200,000.
Helping To Capitalise On "Essential Assets"
In a statement published on Tourism NI's website, Dodds said, "Northern Ireland is one of the most beautiful places on Earth. It offers experiences that live long in the memory, and its people are among the most welcoming around. COVID-19 does not, and will not, change these facts.
"This programme will help our tourism sector capitalise on these essential assets. It will connect more providers with the customers they need and give more tourists the opportunity to enjoy the Northern Ireland experience. I encourage all forward-thinking, innovative providers to consider applying."
"A Critical Period"
Meanwhile, Tourism NI markets & product experiences development officer Brian Connolly commented, "The launch of this new experience development programme comes at a critical period for the survival and recovery of many tourism businesses across Northern Ireland. The programme will help tourism providers develop new and attractive experiences that excite visitors to explore all that Northern Ireland has to offer. These experiences will also be in line with the new 'Northern Ireland - Embrace A Giant Spirit' experience brand.
"We welcome application proposals that bring new and innovative ways to deliver business safely during the pandemic, enhance the visitor experience, support demand and increase consumer confidence. CPVOD-19 has had a profound impact on the tourism sector, and through this new programme we want to support tourism experience providers in their journey to recovery."
The closing date for applications for the programme is September 25. Full details about eligibility criteria and how to apply can be found on Tourism NI's website.
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