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Destination Subvention: Eligibility and guidelines

Not sure if your event qualifies? Review the eligibility criteria for each event type, understand what the application process involves, and know exactly what you need to have ready before you apply.

How we'll support you

We'll support you with

  • Bid development
    Work with the team to develop a strong destination case.
  • Application Support
    Maximise the number of international delegates attending your event, Subvention is available to help cover activities like welcome receptions, gala dinners and social programmes

Deliver impactful events

  • Event delivery
    Stay in contact with the team throughout the planning and delivery of your event.
  • Post-event reporting
    Complete the required reporting to confirm the event’s outcomes and economic impact.

Eligibility by event type

Check the delegate numbers, length of stay, application timing and itinerary requirements for each type of international event.

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  • Minimum 50 international delegates, or ground arrangement costs in excess of €75,000
  • Minimum two-night stay for all international delegates
  • Application submitted at least two months before the programme takes place
  • Event must be at bid pending stage when you apply
  • Minimum 80% of the itinerary takes place in the Republic of Ireland
  • At least 100 international delegates attending in person
  • Minimum one-night stay for all international delegates
  • Application submitted at least six months before the conference start date
  • Event can be at bid stage or confirmed for Ireland when you apply
  • Minimum 80% of the itinerary takes place in the Republic of Ireland
  • At least 100 international participants
  • Minimum two-night stay for all international participants
  • Application submitted at least six months before the event
  • Minimum 80% of the itinerary takes place in the Republic of Ireland
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What you need to know about State Aid

Fáilte Ireland funding must comply with EU State Aid rules. The rules that apply will depend on the support awarded.

State Aid information

What you should have ready

Before you start your application, have these details ready:

  • Event name, dates, expected attendance, and international delegate numbers
  • Hosting organisation details and your role in the bid
  • Supporting documents listed in the fund guidelines.
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    What can you use Destination Subvention for?

    • Bid support (Association Conferences): Funding can support eligible bid-stage costs, including bid materials, video, and travel, accommodation, and registration for up to three people presenting the bid.
    • Site inspections: Funding can support one site inspection per event for up to three overseas decision-makers, covering up to three nights and eligible travel, hosting, and activity costs.
    • Delegate growth: (Association Conferences) Funding is based on confirmed international delegate numbers and can support attendance-building activity. Amounts vary by event type and are not guaranteed.

      How to apply

      You apply through the Fáilte Ireland Trade Portal. The team reviews your application and assesses the value of the event to the Irish economy, which determines the level of support offered. Here is what to expect at each stage.

      • Submit your applicationApply through the Trade Portal with event details, delegate numbers, dates, venue, and support requests. Site inspection and bid support must be requested in advance.
      • Assessment and letter of offerFáilte Ireland assesses the event’s value to the Irish economy. If approved, accept your Letter of Offer in the portal within 14 days or it will be withdrawn.
      • Deliver your eventMeet in Ireland supports event build-up and delivery. Follow the Letter of Offer grant details; changes to eligible expenditure will not be permitted unless pre-approved.
      • Claim your fundingAfter the event, claim through the Trade Portal with actual delegates and costs. Payment is reduced below 80% of estimates and withdrawn below the minimum threshold.
      Apply now(Opens in new window)

      Want to know more?

      Download the fund guidelines for full details, including terms and conditions.

      Access fund guidelines(Opens in new window)

      Explore more about Destination Subvention for international business events.

      • Overview

        Learn how to secure Fáilte Ireland support to bring international business events to Ireland.

      • Help and resources

        Browse Destination Subvention FAQs, download fund guidelines, and find support from the team.