Mayor encourages tourism businesses to apply for support programme through Tourism NI

Tourism businesses across Mid and East Antrim are being encouraged to avail of the new Business and Financial Planning Support Programme through Tourism NI.

The programme aims to help tourism businesses assess the impacts of COVID-19 and develop a strategic recovery plan.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Peter Johnston, has urged tourism businesses across the borough to apply for the support.

“This support programme is open to all tourism businesses in Mid and East Antrim and I would encourage them all to submit their applications.

“Our tourism attractions are the gems of our borough and this programme through Tourism NI is recognition of the critical role they play in driving our local economy.

“Everyone has been working tirelessly to do all they can to assist businesses through this difficult period and this type of programme will only aid that recovery.”

The scheme will provide advisory support to tourism businesses to develop their recovery plans, including a health check and financial plan, a review of their business model and will help to identify funding shortfalls and/or debt restructuring.

Companies in the private sector are eligible to apply as are other legal entities and individuals.

The scheme is also open to the voluntary and community sector.

The plans will be scoped in conjunction with Tourism NI advisors, with the scope of services not exceeding a maximum cost per applicant of £8,000 (net).

There is no financial investment required from businesses to participate but they must meet eligibility criteria.

The programme opened for applications on Wednesday 7 October and there are three simple steps to follow in order to receive an offer.

If you are eligible, you must then complete the online expression of interest form before 3 pm on 2 November.

Read full details including eligibility and how to apply for the COVID-19 Business and Financial Planning Support Programme for the tourism industry.