Business Isle of Man has announced the return of the Winter Event Scheme, providing funding for hospitality, leisure and retail venues.
The scheme, which runs from October 1 to March 31 2026, now offers increased funding and an extended period of support.
The initiative provides up to 80% funding, capped at £2,000, towards costs for venues to host in-house events that drive footfall.
Qualifying events can include open-mic nights, quiz nights, drama performances, craft workshops, indoor markets, and film screenings.
Eligible costs cover entertainment, equipment hire, marketing, and travel for visiting acts.
Support
Enterprise Minister Tim Johnston said: “The Winter Event Scheme continues to be a vital support mechanism for local businesses during the quieter trading period.
“By increasing the maximum funding available for applicants, we’re encouraging venues to be creative and proactive in engaging their communities.”
From November 2024 to March 2025, the scheme approved applications for 138 single venue events (£49,000) across the hospitality, leisure, and retail sectors.
Crucial
Stephen Ball, GM at the Mannin Hotel, which used the scheme for tribute nights, added: “The funding assisted with the logistics of bringing acts and equipment over from the UK, which was crucial to delivering the events to a high standard.
“As a result, we were able to host more events than we could have managed independently.
“The events were overwhelmingly well received and we look forward to any further government initiatives that will allow us to continue offering these experiences in the future.”
Businesses are encouraged to visit the Business Isle of Man website or contact the team at eventfund@gov.im.