Isle of Man Reinstates Winter Event Grants and Manx Menu Contest

The Winter Event Scheme, a grant program aimed at supporting hospitality, entertainment, and leisure businesses on the Isle of Man in organizing special events throughout the colder parts of the year, has been reinstated. This initiative, financed by the Department for Enterprise (DfE), seeks to attract additional patrons and boost local economic activity. First introduced in 2022, the scheme offers financial assistance from the DfE, covering up to 80% of the expenses for hosting in-house events, with a grant ceiling of £1,500. Enterprise Minister Tim Johnston commented that numerous local enterprises encounter “additional pressures” during the winter season, especially during the initial three months of each year. Eligible activities for this funding include, but are not limited to, live music performances, quizzes, film screenings, comedy shows, craft workshops, and indoor markets. Submissions for the scheme will be accepted until March. Furthermore, the department plans to reintroduce the Manx Menu Contest, an event that evaluates dishes predominantly prepared with local ingredients. The contest attracted 60 businesses in its first iteration last year. Establishments have until January 31 to submit their entries, with a public voting period scheduled from February 14 to March 31. The competition encompasses categories such as customer service, products, innovation, and sustainability, and the objective for the forthcoming event is to expand involvement. Mr. Johnston stated that the dual initiatives are intended to “drive footfall and stimulate demand,” while also prompting businesses to “be creative and try new ideas to engage with their communities.” He further mentioned that these schemes align with the preliminary recommendations outlined in the Draft Local Economy Strategy. The definitive document, alongside suggestions for additional programs, is slated for discussion in Tynwald during the upcoming year. Jamie Lewis, Chief Executive of Hospitality Isle of Man, commented that the winter event scheme is expected to offer “meaningful” entertainment choices for Manx residents throughout the winter season. These initiatives will operate concurrently with the Love Manx – Shop Local Christmas campaign, an effort designed to prompt residents to patronize local retail, hospitality, leisure, and food and drink establishments.