Funding call to Events Organisers

Organisers who are planning to run events between 1 October 2009 and 31 March 2010 are being encouraged to apply for funding from one of two funding programmes.

Making the announcement today, Culture, Arts and Leisure the Minister, Gregory Campbell said: “Northern Ireland has been very successful in attracting many prestigious international events over the past few years offering opportunities for people here to see some of their heroes perform both on the stage and on the sports field.

“Over recent years some of Northern Ireland’s home-grown events have developed to attract many world renowned participants and include attractions to suit all tastes and age groups. We want to continue to grow our expertise and international reputation and I encourage organisers not to waste any time and apply as soon as the funds open for applications.”

The Department of Culture, Arts & Leisure (DCAL) is inviting applications for funding for events which fall under one of two funding streams, the Events Growth Fund (EGF) and the Major Events Fund (MEF).

Funding under the Events Growth Fund (EGF) is to assist small events which have the potential to grow into large scale events or international events. Events supported will provide a stepping stone to attracting major events or will demonstrate that they will become sustainable within three years of receiving funding.

A diverse range of arts, sporting and cultural events have been funded under this programme including the Festival of Fools, the Garden Show Ireland, the National Country Sports Fair, the Belfast Rat Race and 5th World Dwarf Games.

Funding under the Major Events Fund (MEF) is to assist large events that will attract significant numbers of out of state visitors and international media coverage. Events that secured support from this fund include the recent NW200 Race Festival, the 27th Annual International Milk Cup and the Belfast Maritime Festival in August when the exciting Atlantic Tall Ships Challenge finishes in port.

All events, large and small, must secure private sector sponsorship to be eligible for funding. The closing date and deadline for receipt of applications is noon on Friday 10 July 2009.

Notes to Editors:

1. Application forms along with guidance notes may be obtained via the DCAL website www.dcalni.gov.uk or by contacting the DCAL Events Unit team, from 1 June 2009 via e-mail at jemma.snell@dcalni.gov.uk or write to DCAL Events Unit, Grants Team, Redwood House, 66 Newforge Lane, BELFAST, BT9 5NW Telephone No: 028 9068 4270

2. Media enquiries to DCAL Press Office on 028 90 515047 or email: press.office@dcalni.gov.uk. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.