Bolton has launched a new first of its kind scheme to boost the town’s tourism industry.
The scheme is known as the Greater Manchester Accelerator Programme, with Bolton now the first town in the region to take it up.
It will be launched in partnership with Marketing Manchester and will set up sessions including masterclasses, workshops and one-to-one support for firms involved in tourism and hospitality.
The council cabinet member for culture Cllr Nadeem Ayub said: “We’re proud to be the first town to host this Visitor Economy Accelerator Programme.
“This follows our recently launched Visitor Economy Strategy and workshop, where we invited businesses in the borough to get their feedback and showcase how our focused strategy can help improve local amenities, tourism, and business.
“Working with Marketing Manchester on this project will tie into our new strategy for Bolton, helping to attract more visitors and comes at a great time after our recent award for Greater Manchester’s Town of Culture.
“We look forward to working with local businesses from the hospitality and tourism sectors to help drive growth.”
The free of charge programme has been financed by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and aims to encourage more collaboration amongst businesses involved in hospitality and tourism.
Bolton will be one of the pilot areas along with Bury and Rochdale.
Marketing Manchester managing director Victoria Braddock said: “We’re excited to launch the Visitor Economy Accelerator Programme, increasing Marketing Manchester’s support within the boroughs of Greater Manchester, beginning with Bolton.
“These regular sessions will offer a valuable opportunity for businesses to receive expert advice and support on key topics affecting the visitor economy, as well as providing opportunities to collaborate with other business owners, managers, and key stakeholders in the industry.
“The initiative is designed to ensure that local businesses receive the tailored support and expertise they need to thrive and grow, which is crucial in strengthening the overall visitor economy of Greater Manchester.
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“We look forward to seeing the positive impact this programme of support will have on Bolton’s tourism and hospitality businesses and would encourage any business interested to get in touch to find out more.”
The first event, dubbed Changing UK Visitor Markets: Emerging Trends, Evolving Consumer Habits and Available Support will take place on Monday, September 9.
This will be at The Walker Suite at Victoria Hall on Knowsley Street in Bolton.
Anyone interested in attending can search Bolton Tourism and Hospitality Network Event at MarketingManchester.com.
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