Tourism and hospitality businesses in Welshpool and across north Powys are being encouraged to apply for a share of a new £1.75 million Welsh Government grant fund aimed at helping them welcome visitors year-round.
The latest phase of the Weather-Proofing Fund will offer grants of between £5,000 and £20,000 to small businesses, including accommodation providers, food and drink establishments, and those offering outdoor or recreational activities.
The funding can be used for projects such as installing covered outdoor areas, dining pods, or improved surfacing and drainage – all designed to help businesses extend their trading opportunities whatever the weather.
Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, said the investment highlights the importance of supporting smaller enterprises that are vital to Wales’ visitor economy.
“I was delighted by the uptake of the first round of our weather-proofing fund, and this additional investment demonstrates our commitment to supporting a sector which is crucial to the Welsh economy.
“By investing in weather-proofing measures, we are supporting businesses to extend their trading opportunities, in turn attracting more visitors, improving experiences, and ultimately increasing stay and spend across Wales.
“Wales offers incredible experiences all year long, and during this ‘Year of Croeso’. The fund will help our smaller tourism businesses make the most of every season – allowing them to give a warm Welsh welcome to visitors year-round.”
The scheme is open to businesses with between nine and 49 full-time employees that have been trading for at least a year. It opens today and closes at 1pm on October 27.
Tourism is a key part of the Mid Wales economy, and the scheme is expected to benefit businesses across north Powys by helping them adapt to changing weather patterns and ensuring visitors have a positive experience whenever they arrive.
Further details are available through the Visit Wales industry funding website at https://industry.visitwales.com/supporting-you/funding-information-and-advice-available-tourism-businesses