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This article was published on Tuesday, 19 April, 2022. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

Greater Shepparton Visitor Experience Innovation Grants Now Open

The Visitor Experience Innovations Grants aim to assist businesses in Greater Shepparton’s Visitor Economy Industry to undertake initiatives and projects that will assist to improve the tourism offering in the region and support business sustainability.

This is a new round of the program after introducing the grant in 2020 which since then has seen 18 local businesses receive funding for projects.

A total grant pool of $34,000 is available for this round with businesses in the visitor economy including the following sectors eligible to apply: accommodation, passenger transport providers, event suppliers and contractors, tour companies, attractions, wellness tourism, farm gate experiences, retail who have a direct link to local produce and hospitality and boutique food production.

The program has been put in place to support businesses to come out of the pandemic with increased diversity and sustainability, encouraging more visitors to the region and delivering an improved experience for those who visit and reside in Greater Shepparton.

Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor Councillor Kim O’Keeffe said these projects would enhance business offerings and attract more visitors.

“Our region has seen an influx of travellers visit recently and we do not expect this to slow down, we need to invest in our local visitor economy and share our great local attractions and experiences with the rest of the state,” Cr O’Keeffe said.

“This funding will assist local businesses to improve certain facilities such as interpretive signage, creative features such as murals or sculptures, environmentally sustainable infrastructure such as EV Charging stations and accessibility upgrades for toilets, ramps or car parking.

“These projects and investments on local businesses will enhance the visitor experience, grow visitation, increase the length of stay and boost the economic stimulation in the region.”

Previous recipients have used funds towards projects such as exterior artwork at Shepparton Brewery by a local artist, an interactive truck installation at MOVE, weather proofing outdoor spaces at Tallis Wines and a ceramic mosaic mural at Longleat Wines.

It is a requirement that you contact councils Visitor Innovation Grant mentor to discuss your application prior to starting this submission. Please contact Council on 03 5832 9700.

The grants are now open and will close at 5pm on Monday 30 May 2022. More information on the grant program can be found at the link. www.greatershepparton.com.au/visitor-experience-innovation-grant