Tourism stakeholders and entrepreneurs have been invited to apply for support from the Bermuda Tourism Authority Experience Investment Programme.

The initiative provides marketing or funding support for innovative tourism entrepreneurs and business owners whose proposals meet the programme criteria and align with the Bermuda National Tourism Plan objectives.

The BTA said the goal is to help create memorable, authentic experiences for visitors already on the island or those still in the planning stages, drive visitor spending and build opportunities to interact with locals.

Applicants must provide a business plan articulating the vision, goals for sustainability, and marketing strategy. A panel of industry stakeholders will review the proposals alongside BTA representatives.

Submissions that incorporate food culture, authentic Bermuda history and culture delivered in innovative ways, immersive environmental experiences and adventure in unexpected natural locations are opportunities that are highly sought after by our primary visitor segments, the BTA said.

Unique on-the-water experiences, live entertainment series and luxury experiences marketed towards visitors are particular areas of interest for the review panel.

The BTA has produced an online guide to help candidates navigate the EIP application process.

Interested awardees are invited to consider idea starters targeting experiences with local artists, immersive railway trail experiences or transformation of Bermuda's historic forts or outdoor locations into tasting experiences with live entertainment.

Tashae Thompson, director of experiences at the BTA, said: "This programme is designed to provide a boost to our inventory of memorable experiences and adventures for our visitors.

“We know some local innovators require just a bit more support to take their vision across the line, and we want to empower them through funding, marketing, or collaborative opportunities."

Last year, 20 applicants received more than $215,000 in funding for their initiatives, including two live entertainment series – Buna Live in the West End of the island and High Notes on the Harbour in St George's.

Historical tours, curated food experiences, and an African Diaspora tour series were some of the other experiences awarded EIP funding in 2021.

Applications for EIP grants will be accepted through the EIP Portal for proposed June to December activations until March 31 at 11.59pm.

Applicants are encouraged to review the Experience Investment Presentation online for guidance on completing their proposals.

For more information, e-mail experiences@bermudatourism.com.

Tourism-oriented businesses can register their product, service or experience on BTAConnect, to be listed on the high traffic, visitor-facing GoToBermuda site for broader exposure to travellers planning their Bermuda vacations.