Following the success of the NSW Regional Conferencing Development Grants Pilot Program, the NSW Government has committed a further $300,000 to attract and create more business events across the state.
Under the program Cowra received $10,000 in funding to host the upcoming Climate Innovation in the Central West conference, taking place this week on April 18–19.
The conference will explore the future of agricultural practices and highlight innovative local projects and is expected to draw over 200 attendees to the region.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said staging business events is a great way to showcase the electorate’s conferencing facilities and array of tourism offerings while encouraging repeat visitation.
“The additional $300,000 is fantastic news for those conference planners wanting support with venue hire, event marketing and opportunities to encourage longer stays in our wonderful cities, towns and villages,” Ms Cooke said.
“The more overnight visitors we can drive to our region means more jobs and boosted local economies, so I encourage business events to apply soon.”
Minister for Tourism and Major Events Adam Marshall said since the launch of the Pilot Program in August 2017 there has been an overwhelming response from the industry, and 12 successful business events have already received grants of up to $65,000.
“Since launching, we have provided more than $350,000 to business events in regions such as Mudgee, Port Macquarie, Wagga Wagga, Tamworth, Armidale, Queanbeyan and Cowra,” Mr Marshall said.
“It’s anticipated that the 4600 delegates who are expected to attend the 12 events already funded by the Program, will inject around $2 million into rural and regional communities across NSW.
The Regional Conferencing Development Grants Program is managed and administered by the State’s tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW and provides funding on a matched dollar-for-dollar basis. Applicants are encouraged to apply for grants before 30 June 2018.
For more information on the NSW Regional Conferencing Strategy and Action Plan, including the Grants Program, go to, www.meetinnsw.com.au
