Seventeen Irish tourism projects have been funded by Fáilte Ireland, for a total of around €2.9 million, with most of the funds earmarked for the Midlands region.
It comes after some 170 applications were received by the tourism board, and, more grants are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
The cash is earmarked to develop eco-cabins, glamping accommodations, cycling schemes, boating and fishing ventures, and the conversion of old disused properties into tourist accommodations.
"This scheme was launched to create new opportunities for local communities and businesses across the Midlands,” said Paul Kelly, chief executive Fáilte Ireland.
“Today’s announcement is a major milestone, and we look forward to supporting even more projects that will drive sustainable tourism and economic growth."
The grant scheme - open to private and community ‘small and medium enterprises (SMEs) - was backed by the Irish Government and the European Union’s Just Transition Fund, aimed at bolstering local ‘regenerative’ tourism businesses.
The idea is to foster and develop sustainable visitor experiences and low-carbon accommodation options, Failte Ireland highlighted.
Where the money’s going
Of the first wave of cash, close to €800,000 is heading to Longford split across five projects, including the development of eco-cabins, other self-catering accommodation and glamping, as well as bicycles and water tours.
Some €550,000 is being invested in Laois, across two separate glamping projects.
In Westmeath, €348,400 is split between the conversion of disused buildings into self-catering cottages, and, separately the design and planning for chalet accommodation.
Three projects in Offaly share a total of €223,994, of which €168,000 is to be spent on the increase of bike rental stock.
Two projects in Tipperary receive €347,200 for projects including the redevelopment of outhouses into self-catering accommodation, as well as €47,200 for cycling and accessibility equipment.
In Roscommon, €275,000 is being invested to convert a historic 19th-century schoolhouse into modern guest accommodation.
Also, €57,600 was granted in Galway for a feasibility study for a tourism project that may include a cookery school, outdoor glamping pods, campervan pitches, a petting farm, and wellness space.
Fáilte Ireland said it continues to evaluate grant applications and more awards are expected.
