Grant applications open

AUSTRADE yesterday opened applications for funding under the Reviving International Tourism Grant Program (RITG) which offers a total of $9 million over two years for inbound and outbound tour operators and wholesalers to participate in international trade shows and improve their online presence ( TD 18 May).

Open to Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) and Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) members as well as other businesses endorsed by either organisation, a total of $6 million is on offer under Stream 1 to help “reconnect with international markets” by attending or taking part in a range of eligible events such as WTM, ITB, Indaba or ATE.

ATEC members can apply for up to $15,000, while CATO members can access up to $10,000, to help cover costs such as airfares and accommodation, registration, entry fees and marketing material.

A further $3 million under Stream 2 is available for digital activities such as refreshing websites, improving online accessibility, search engine optimisation to improve visibility to international consumers, or updating social media channels.

A maximum of $2,000 per applicant is available under this stream of the grants program.

Stream 1 is a demand-driven grant, capped to a maximum number of applicants based on available funding - and approved applicants who continue to maintain their eligibility will automatically receive a second payment in 2023/24 based on the funding demand this year, distributing any funds remaining from the initial tranche.

Applications for both streams are now open, with Stream 1 lodgements ( CLICK HERE) due by 13 Jun and Stream 2 ( CLICK HERE) requiring submission by 04 Jul.