Regional Event Fund - Event Development - 2026-2027

The Event Development stream supports events that have previously received the maximum funding permitted through the Flagship Event stream and can present a comprehensive strategy for future growth that includes the continued development of its tourism potential to drive overnight visitation to the event.

The Event Development stream will offer one-off grants of up to $50,000 (ex GST) to events in Regional NSW to support key strategic growth initiatives that will have a direct impact on increasing overnight visitation to the event. A clear strategic rationale will be required for all initiatives together with a justification for the amount requested.

Types of projects funded under this grant

The Event Development stream provides funding to support initiatives that will have a direct impact on increasing overnight visitation to the event. A clear strategic rationale will be required for all initiatives. Activities that may be eligible for funding include:

• Promotional activities with a measurable overnight visitation outcome (e.g. promotions with a unique call to action)
• Cooperative marketing activities with the tourism industry (e.g. the development and promotion of packages to the event that include accommodation or access to other tourist attractions)
• Costs associated with implementing robust visitor research methodologies
• Infrastructure costs associated with encouraging extended stays (e.g. additional hire costs to extend the event an extra day)
• Costs associated with the delivery of an improved visitor experience (e.g. grandstands, information services, facilities)
• Costs associated with developing broader accommodation options or the delivery of temporary accommodation (e.g. shuttle buses to neighbouring towns, implementation of home hosting programs, creation of temporary camping grounds)
• Consultancy fees for marketing, PR, digital or event management specialists provided there are clear and measurable outcomes that demonstrate an improvement on existing activities.

Event Development funding is not intended to replace previous or other event funding. Grants funds must be expended on the initiatives described in the application.