Enterprise Dunedin director John Christie said the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment funding made public today would be open to new events or scaled-up versions of existing Dunedin events.
‘‘We know that key events are a real drawcard for Kiwis, and the associated spend on hospitality, accommodation, retail, transport and activities spread the economic benefit far and wide,’’ Mr Christie said.
The funding covered two and a-half years and would be administered by Enterprise Dunedin, in its role as regional tourism organisation, a statement from Enterprise Dunedin said.
The fund was designed for events that would attract visitors and spending to the city, to offset the loss of international tourism dollars.
New or existing events could qualify for between $25,000 and $100,000 for a single or multi-year event, which must take place between March 2021 and June 2023, Enterprise Dunedin said.
The funding could be applied for in addition to other Dunedin City Council event grants.
Enterprise Dunedin was working with Tourism Waitaki, Clutha Development and Great South to avoid date clashes, where possible, it said.
