Funding available for 2010/11 events

Organisers of cultural, sporting and arts events planned between 1 April 2010 and 31 March 2011 are being asked to submit applications for funding by noon 27 November 2009.

Acknowledging the important role that events can play in promoting a positive image of Northern Ireland across the world, Minister McCausland said: "Attracting more visitors to Northern Ireland is a key priority for the Executive. Over £1.5million was made available by my Department to support a wide range of quality cultural, sporting and arts events taking place in 2009/2010."

The funds are designed to support both the delivery of major events and the development of smaller events that demonstrate the potential to grow into larger, major events.

Concluding the Minister said: "This will be the last year that the schemes operate in their current format and I would encourage organisers to think strategically about their development needs as specific resources will be made available to prepare events for the changes and challenges ahead."

The call for applications for the Major Events Fund and the Events Growth Fund is being issued in advance of the proposed transfer of the management of events from DCAL to the Northern Ireland Tourist Board.

Notes to editors:

1. Applications that demonstrate progress towards self-sustainability will be prioritised.

2. Over £1.5million is available to support the delivery of events in 2010/11.

3. The Department for Culture, Arts & Leisure (DCAL) has been working closely with the Department of Enterprise, Trade & Investment and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) to implement the Review of Public Administration recommendation to transfer functions undertaken by the Northern Ireland Events Company (NIEC) to the NITB. On discovery of irregularities in the management of the NIEC, DCAL assumed responsibility for the delivery of grant aid to event organisers as an interim measure to ensure continuity in service for the sector.

4. Ministers responsible for Culture, Arts & Leisure and Enterprise, Trade & Investment, agreed the proposal to transfer and implementation will be taken forward when final NI Executive approval is secured.

5. Application forms and guidance are available to download from the DCAL website: http://www.dcalni.gov.uk or from the DCAL Events Unit, Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure, DCAL Events Unit, Grants Team, Redwood House, 66 Newforge Lane, Belfast, BT9 5NW Tel: 028 9068 4270