Measure 3.3 Encouragement of Tourism Activities – Private Sector, Social Economy Organisations and Public Bodies

(Sustainable Tourism Measure)

Click to apply online - www.eugrants.org (opens new window) In the event of this website not working, a completed application form (in Word format) may be emailed to us before the relevant deadline. *Please note: We prefer your application is made online through the eugrants.org website to avoid duplication of effort.*

What will this Measure do?
This Measure offers new and existing tourism providers an opportunity to develop, promote or expand tourism activities and infrastructure

• To improve the marketing, co-ordination and promotion of tourism activities,
• To increase visitor numbers to the region,
• To create employment opportunities and
• To encourage sustainable, eco-friendly tourism developments

Who can benefit?
Private sector and social economy tourism businesses and public bodies that have a tourism remit. In 2004, The Cluster area accounted for 9% total NI visitor spend - £35.3million.

Please note: This is a competitive programme

What type of projects can be supported?
New and existing tourism products can be supported under this measure e.g.:

• Activity tourism
• Niche/specialist tourism markets/local crafts or produce
• Eco-tourism
• Self-catering accommodation with 1 or more units must have at least 4 star NITB rating and full planning permission must be in place before application can be submitted.
• Rural Signature Projects - enhancement or development of significant tourism infrastructure projects or programmes that impact significantly on rural tourism. Applicants will have to demonstrate fit with local strategies.

  What type of grant and how much?

  Activity	Level of support	Maximum Grant
  1. Technical support for business plans or feasibility plans to help new businesses become established and to help existing businesses consolidate and expand and for bespoke training directly related to project applications( which is not on offer from any other provider ) and for marketing support	Up to 50% (Private Sector)	£5,000
  	Up to 75% (Social Economy Sector)	£5,000
  2. Grant aid towards capital and resource costs	Up to 50% ( Private Sector)	£40,000
  	Up to 75% (Social Economy Sector)	£240,000

  You can top up the maximum grant to £50,000 if you add an approved maximum £10,000 renewable energy element to your project.