Tourism providers in Westmeath encouraged to apply for Just Transition grants

Activity tourism providers in the region are being advised that they can avail of grant aid of up to 100% of eligible costs under the current EU Just Transition Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme.

Projects such as setting up a bike hire or water-based activity business may be eligible and items funded could include purchase of bikes, kayaks, safety equipment or other capital costs.

Projects costing less than €10,000 can potentially avail of up to 100% funding and the application process has been simplified for these projects. Larger tourism projects may be funded up to 80% of eligible costs.

Tourism Officer with Westmeath County Council, Úna Doris, said, "with nearly a 100km of greenways in the county, along with our lakeshore amenities, there is a fantastic opportunity for activity providers to grow a successful tourism enterprise."

Westmeath County Council’s 'Just Transition Activator' Amy O’Connor is dedicated to supporting applicants under this Fáilte Ireland grant scheme and is providing assistance at every step of the process.

Amy said, "we are looking for all potential applicants to come forward and avail of the support available to tap into this unique funding opportunity."

The closing date for Expressions of Interest for all applicants is June 30. Many other project types are also eligible including visitor accommodation, attractions and accessibility improvements for more inclusive visitor experiences.

Anyone who is interested in this scheme can contact Amy by phone on 087 490 8426 or 044 933 2217 or email amy.oconnor@westmeathcoco.ie

The 'activation' of Westmeath's tourism assets, specifically greenways, was discussed at an industry workshop organised by Fáilte Ireland at the Bloomfield House Hotel on Wednesday, May 29.

Attendees heard details of a range of grants and supports on offer to businesses who wish to progress a business opportunity associated with our greenways.

In addition to the Just Transition Regenerative Tourism Scheme, grants for tourism projects are also available from Westmeath Community Development under the new LEADER Programme.

Expert mentoring, training a range of other supports are available through the Westmeath Local Enterprise Office and Fáilte Ireland's Business Supports Hub.

For more information on the range of supports available, go to www.localenterprise.ie/Westmeath/ or email: localenterprise@westmeathcoco.ie