Published: April 4th, 2024
Grants of almost £25,000 are on offer to tourism and hospitality businesses in Herefordshire as part of a major programme to boost the sector.
Applications for the Rural Tourism Grant close at midnight on Sunday May 12, but interested businesses should submit their expressions of interest as soon as possible.
The Rural Tourism Grant is a capital grant scheme funded by the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF). Grants are available for up to 75 per cent of the total eligible project costs, up to a maximum of £24,999.
In the first instance, business leaders should complete the expression of interest form – if eligible, your business will then be invited to make a full application which should be submitted by May 12.
The scheme aims to support capital projects which will help the tourism sector remain an effective and successful contributor to the Herefordshire economy, support new business growth and new jobs, develop local visitor trails and infrastructure, or develop tourist attractions and accommodation.
Successful projects must be able to show that they will increase visitor numbers, create or safeguard jobs, create new businesses or increase turnover. Businesses must employ fewer than 50 people and must be based in the specified rural area.
Projects that receive a grant must be completed by January 31, 2025.
The grant can be used for a wide range of projects, such as developing a wedding venue, creating an activity centre, developing a new caravan or camping site or providing new visitor accommodation.
Projects which improve disabled access or support green tourism are also eligible.
Ineligible businesses include large companies, franchises and national chains, gambling and betting firms and those whose activity is outside Herefordshire.
Grants need to be match funded by the business, which needs to meet at least 25 per cent of the total project cost.
For full details of eligibility criteria and restrictions, visit the Rural Tourism Grant page. If you would like to discuss your proposal before completing the form, contact the Herefordshire Growth Hub by emailing [email protected]
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