VisitBritain has today launched a programme to attract more global business events to the UK.
The four-year Event Support Programme offers advocacy and funding to grow and develop the UK’s international business events industry, currently worth about £19 billion to the economy.
The programme is open to Destination Management Organisations (DMOs) or venues and event organisers who are collaborating with DMOs and offers the chance to apply for funding from a pool of £1 million annually.
Organisations can also apply for non-financial support in the form of endorsement from advocates including Government Ministers, overseas diplomatic missions, UK Trade & Investment and other influencers.
Tourism Minister Tracey Crouch said:
'Britain is open for business and we want to encourage as many people to visit and organise their events in the UK. This new programme will help grow this multi-billion pound industry even further, boosting our economy and bringing more people to our shores.'
VisitBritain/VisitEngland Chief Executive Sally Balcombe said:
“VisitBritain is committed to growing the UK’s valuable business visits and events sector and promoting its world-class destinations and venues to drive more inbound business tourism.
“By working with local organisations we can attract more lucrative international business events to Britain spreading the economic benefits of business tourism across all our nations and regions.”
Support is available for activities that help secure business events for Britain, develop new events and boost the economic impact of existing events.
Non-financial support packages could include letters of support or video messages from Government and non-Government influencers, attendance at a bid support activity by a Government Minister or hosting meetings to help secure events for Britain.
For more information about the Event Support Programme (including criteria and the online application form) see: https://www.visitbritain.org/events-support-programme-overview