Funding applications for business events in regional Victoria have just opened. Business Events Victoria is encouraging conference and event organisers to apply and make the most of all regional Victoria has to offer.

The funding is part of the Regional Business Events Program, which is being delivered by Business Events Victoria in partnership with Melbourne Convention Bureau.

The program supports national and international businesses to host events in regional Victoria – from conferences and trade exhibitions to seminars and corporate meetings.

Funding is being made available by the Victorian Government, and there are two streams available: the National Business Events Program and the International Incentives Event Program.

The National Business Events Program offers grants of up to $80 per delegate (up to a maximum of $40,000) for eligible event organisers to host new business events yet to be booked in regional Victoria.

Meanwhile, under the new International Incentives Event Program, planners can receive $150 per delegate for new international incentive programs yet to be booked which include an overnight stay in regional Victoria.

This funding provides an excellent opportunity to grow tourism across regional Victoria, boosting local economies by supporting new events, attractions and accommodation for visitors.

The National Business Events Program funding can be utilized by event organisations for accommodation, venue hire, food and beverage, transport and other event costs.

Quotes to be attributed to Business Events Victoria Executive Officer Adeline Keh:
“Business Events Victoria’s focus is on attracting national conferences to regional destinations across the state that align with key regional industries.

“This funding will go a long way to further encourage and support these important events for Victoria, strengthening business prospects across communities throughout the state.

“Through the NBEP’s previous rounds of support, 55 business events received funding to be held in regional Victoria, delivering $13.23m to date to local communities,” she said.

FOR MEDIA COMMENT CONTACT ADELINE KEH ON 0426 246 822.