A new Tourism Strategy for Dundee City region was launched in March 2016. At the heart of the strategy is the aim for Dundee to be recognised as the best up-and-coming city in the UK for cultural short breaks. The first round of funding happened earlier this year, but the brief for the second round has just been released! The new Dundee Cultural Tourism Fund has been created by Scottish Enterprise.
Cultural Tourism represents one of the largest and fastest growing sectors of tourism globally, and can be categorised into 3 distinct key pillars
- Built, natural and historical heritage (buildings, gardens, castles and stately homes)
- Cultural heritage (museums, galleries, traditional arts and culinary culture)
- Contemporary culture (music, film/TV, fashion and performing arts)
The opening of the V&A Museum of Design Dundee in 2018 brings an internationally recognised brand to Dundee, boosting the creative and cultural infrastructure of the city. A strong Cultural Tourism proposition, drawing on Dundee’s range of cultural assets, independent restaurants, vibrant creative sector, and strong events and festivals programme will be key to attracting visitors over the coming years. Dundee also became the UK’s first UNESCO City of Design in December 2014, attracting visitors and collaborations from across the globe. Cultural experiences are integral to the quality of visitors’ impressions of Dundee; they can provide unique and memorable experiences that delight visitors and help the city stand out against competitors. The cultural offer is central to what will make Dundee attractive and vibrant for tourists.
The Cultural Tourism Fund is intended to support the development of new products and experiences in the city. This could be a new festival, innovative approach to transport, new food and drink offerings or a new tourism trail.
The fund is collaborative, and applications should be submitted by at least two partners, with one identified as the lead. You can download a copy of the application form by clicking here.
The final closing date for applications is 14 June 2017. All applications will be evaluated by a panel comprising representatives from Scottish Enterprise and Dundee City Council.
Applicants will be notified of the decision by Thursday 22 June.
For further information contact Louise Tobin at Scottish Enterprise via louise.tobin@scotent.co.uk