Background Information

A Matching Grant Facility will be implemented for the duration of the Sustainable Tourism Program to include programs that:

• Are in support of micro and small business initiatives which develop business and employment opportunities within the emerging destinations and/for those on low incomes.
• Address the environmental effects of tourism that most directly impact the less well off members of society and to promote compliance with industry standards.
• Address the social and cultural effects of tourism. ie. the provision of codes of conduct, or the provision of information to visitors which is likely to change their behavior.

All programs should be innovative, feasible, sustainable, and show commitment from those directly involved.

STP INVESTMENT:

The STP will invest in the development and implementation of a matching grants facility with up to 50% of the cost being met by the program, and the balance provided by the recipient thus fostering commitment. The latter funds will be contributed in cash or in-kind and may originate from a variety of sources including other tourism sector entities participating within the project. Funds will be awarded following a call for proposals by the STP: the concepts being developed by the bidder. Grant finance will not exceed US$25, 000 per program.

Current Project Status:

Implementation scheduled to commence June 2010