NI Overseas Event Animation Programme - Extension 2026

This programme aims to support the attendance of small and unique Northern Ireland based tourism partners at Tourism Ireland led overseas events.

If you have previously applied to this programme, we have your details and you do not need to reapply.

The initiative is designed to give small tourism businesses the opportunity to explore overseas markets, potentially for the first time, without the requirement for pre-arranged appointments. They will add value in terms of animation, dynamism and vibrancy at key Tourism Ireland overseas events.

Please note that these event animation participants must be tourism businesses with a sellable product – e.g., funds must not be used to bring a musician to an event, unless they are part of a music trail, Irish night etc.

These animation industry partners will not take appointments and will be additional to those industries that have been selected via the Tourism NI usual recruitment channels.

Suitable for:

• Food and Drink Experiences
• Cookery Demonstrations
• Entertainment
• Music
• Demonstrations from Visitor Attractions/ Experiences
• Storytellers from Visitor Attractions/ Experiences
• Craft Demonstrations

Recruitment:

Tourism Ireland and Tourism NI will recruit the most appropriate event animation partners based on factors such as:

• Region (event animation partners should, where possible, be chosen from regions which are twinned with markets)
• Suitability of event animation product/service for the market event
• Language capabilities
• The ability to enhance an event/show through engagement with overseas buyers

Dates:

Expression of Interest for the NI Overseas Event Animation Programme has now reopened and will close on Friday 31st October 2025.  This fund will cover animation activities at Tourism Ireland platforms up to 31st March 2026. Note if you have previously applied, you do not need to reapply.

Terms and Conditions:

• Funding is available to one industry partner per business and is subject to budget availability
• Daily expenses and per diem rates are not an eligible cost in the Industry Animation Programme
• The TI market rep will organise travel and accommodation for the event animation partner
• This programme is not open to Destination Management Organisations, Local Authorities, or other publicly funded agencies/authorities

Eligible Costs:

• International travel costs including flights/ ferries (basic economy fare only)
• Domestic/internal flights that are required for attendance at Tourism Ireland led events in-market e.g., Sales Missions, Workshops, etc.
• Additional luggage requirements for supplies/instruments may be covered subject to discussion and approval by Tourism Ireland
• Accommodation incurred for the purpose of attending the show/event.

For any queries regarding the NI Overseas Event Animation Programme please contact Audrey O’Connor or Niamh Rafferty at ​elevationandanimation@tourismireland.com

The Business Solutions team offer support to access a range of overseas opportunities, for further details on current and forthcoming opportunities go to International MICE & Travel Trade Calendar.