New support schemes launched to boost hospitality and leisure sector during quieter months

As much as £1,500 is up for grabs

The Department for Enterprise has launched two support initiatives aimed at boosting the Isle of Man’s hospitality, entertainment, and leisure sectors during the quieter winter months.

The Winter Event Scheme and the Manx Menu contest are both intended to increase footfall and encourage local spending, in line with the forthcoming Local Economy Strategy.

The Winter Event Scheme will provide funding of up to 80 percent of eligible costs, capped at £1,500, to support hospitality and leisure venues in hosting events.

Events eligible for funding include live music, quiz nights, film screenings, and craft workshops.

Applications for the scheme are now open and will close in March 2025.

The Manx Menu contest, now in its second year, invites local businesses to submit new or existing menu items featuring primarily Manx ingredients.

The contest includes awards for customer service, product quality, innovation, and sustainability, with entries open until 31 January 2025 and public voting scheduled from mid-February through March.

Last year’s contest drew 123 entries from over 60 businesses, which the newly formed Hospitality Isle of Man group aims to expand further in 2025.

Chair of Hospitality Isle of Man Jamie Lewis said: “The Winter Event Scheme provides businesses with an opportunity to embrace their creativity and utilise this Scheme to explore new ideas that can attract footfall to their venues and create meaningful entertainment options for residents over the winter.”

Additional proposals for support schemes are expected to go before Tynwald in the new year.

Applications for the support schemes can be found HERE.