To support the objectives of the Local Economy Strategy to both invigorate high streets and transform vacant spaces, the Domestic Event Fund now offers specific support for businesses looking to “pop-up” in one of the available empty units around the Island. This funding is intended for businesses that wish to trial a new premises with a view to establishing a longer-term presence and encouraging sustainable, ongoing occupancy of vacant units.

Subject to a successful application, the funding will pay up to 50% of the rent of the space for the first six months of operation. As with the standard Domestic Event Fund route the remaining
amount is to be sourced and confirmed by the applicant.

Please complete this form in the first instance. An officer will then be in touch to discuss your application. In order to qualify for funding applicants will be required to:

• Complete this application form.
• Demonstrate support from the relevant Local Authority.
• Undertake a review of the local area and demonstrate the requirement for the business.
• Provide details of business plan, targets (sales, footfall etc.), marketing plans, review of competition, and how the space will be used and what the intended hours of operation will be.
• Demonstrate that the intended unit is priced competitively for rent.
• Provide the Department with proof of how the remaining rent costs will be covered

Before completing the application please refer to the Fund guidelines for more detail on eligibility.

If you have any specific questions please contact the team at eventfund@gov.im