Irish collaboration to support tourism industry

Tourism NI have teamed up with Tourism Ireland to launch a new support programme for tourism businesses in Northern Ireland (NI) as part of the drive to support the sector’s recovery and growth. The International Market Access Programme will provide financial assistance to local tourism providers. It hopes to return to overseas sales activity in core markets, reconnect with buyers, generate valuable business leads and promote Northern Ireland as global tourism destination for group leisure, golf, luxury and business events. Funding of up to £6,500 (US$8,820) per applicant is available with the aim of providing local industry with support. The Programme will operate on a pilot basis from 4 October 2021 to 31 March 2022. Eimear Callaghan, Tourism NI’s business solutions manager, said: “International group business for leisure, luxury, golf and business events has been at a virtual standstill since the onset of the pandemic. Our overseas markets are vitally important and crucial for a balanced tourism portfolio. Our industry is very keen to return to overseas sales activity and reconnect with buyers.” Niamh Kinsella, Tourism Ireland’s manager of IMAP, added: “We want to work closely with our tourism partners in Northern Ireland, to help them recover as quickly as possible from the effects of the pandemic and rebuild their business from overseas. Through this joint programme, we will support them to get back out to the international marketplace to promote their product or experience and Northern Ireland – through a range of B2B promotions targeting leisure, business, golf and luxury travellers.” Deadline for applications is 30 November 2021. For more information, please click here Photo from Tourism Northern Ireland . Natasha Johnston, Tourism Ireland and Eimear Callaghan, Tourism NI.