Kildare County Council is pleased to announce the appointment of Helen Mulhall as an EU Just Transition Fund Tourism Activator. Mulhall will play a pivotal part in supporting and guiding private and community-based Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in developing high-quality project proposals and grant applications through Fáilte Ireland’s EU Just Transition Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme.
Mulhall brings a wealth of experience in the local development sector having previously successfully worked on developing and managing various projects as a Development Officer with County Kildare LEADER Partnership. In her new role, she will assist eligible Kildare businesses and community groups in creating quality project proposals and grant applications, ensuring compliance with the EU requirements while fostering collaboration and building networks.
The Fáilte Ireland Investment Grant-Aid Scheme for Private & Community SMEs is open for Expressions of Interest from Private & Community SMEs. The scheme aims to improve the visitor experience, secure overnight stays, offer them more activities and facilities to encourage them to stay longer in the Midlands and enhance digital capabilities in tourism businesses.
Categories for Funding:
- Development or Enhancement of Sustainable Visitor Experiences
- Development of Sustainable/Low Carbon Tourist Accommodation
- Capital Project Planning & Design
- Digital Transformation
- Accessibility Enhancements to provide a more inclusive visitor experience.
Private and community-based micro-enterprises and SMEs interested in applying for funding should submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) form via Fáilte Ireland’s online trade portal. The closing date for Categories 1, 2, 3, and 5 is June 30, 2024, with funded projects expected to be completed by August 2026.
Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media Catherine Martin TD says “The opening of the EU Just Transition Regenerative Tourism & Placemaking Scheme by Fáilte Ireland marks the beginning of the regenerative tourism development journey in Ireland, as we work towards a low carbon economy. This scheme is in line with the government’s commitment for the development of a Sustainable Tourism Policy which will support sustainable economic development and job creation. Working with all partners and communities on the ground I am confident that this scheme will help to transform tourism in the Midlands and enable the regional economies to thrive.”
(Source: Kildarecoco.ie)
