PERMANENT REOPENING OF DOMESTIC EVENT FUND TO DRIVE LOCAL BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

After successfully undergoing a two-year trial period, the Domestic Event Fund is set to become a permanent fixture, offering event organisers and local authorities the chance to craft exciting new events that promise to invigorate foot traffic and stimulate spending within the town and villages across the Isle of Man.

Originally introduced in 2020, the Domestic Event Fund has already spurred the participation of over 200,000 attendees, drawing crowds to an array of distinctive events spanning the entire Island.

To access the benefits of this fund, potential applicants are advised to initiate the process by sending an initial inquiry email to eventfund@gov.im to ensure the proposed event aligns with the Fund's criteria. Following this, the Domestic Event Fund Manager will initiate contact to elucidate the fund's mechanics and guide through the application process. Prospective applicants are encouraged to consult the Event Fund before soliciting quotes from event suppliers to ensure their event aligns with the fund's guidelines.

Upon a successful application, recipients will receive written confirmation of the offer from the Domestic Event Fund Manager, detailing the terms and conditions associated with the acceptance of the financial support. Every offer of financial aid adheres to standard terms and conditions, outlining the consequences of receiving assistance and specifying the data reporting obligations for recipient businesses.

Applicants are expected to submit a comprehensive business proposal delineating the event's activities, its potential impact on local businesses and the community, as well as the projected expenditure for executing the event. The evaluation of applications will be undertaken on a case-by-case basis, considering factors like town population and the number of businesses poised to benefit from the event.

Eligible expenses earmarked for reimbursement encompass a range of areas, including Equipment Hire, Entertainment, Marketing, Insurance, and Health & Safety. The types of events qualifying for funding include but are not limited to Local Markets, Festivals, Shows/Concerts, and any event with the potential to augment footfall and domestic expenditure.

Interested parties are encouraged to consult the comprehensive Guidelines document for a detailed understanding of the fund's intricacies. The Department retains the authority to rescind an offer of support at its discretion, a scenario that may arise in cases of non-compliance with terms and conditions or the submission of inaccurate information.

In instances where applications are not approved, applicants will receive notification of the decision along with the rationale behind it.

If you wish to apply for the Domestic Event Fund, kindly complete the application form.

For inquiries, application support, or discussions regarding event eligibility for financial backing from the Domestic Event Fund, please don't hesitate to reach out to eventfund@gov.im. The Domestic Event Fund Manager is poised to offer assistance, guiding you through the process and addressing any queries.