An NITB roadshow to help people access the tourism events fund stops off in Enniskillen this week.

The roadshow takes place in the Killyhevlin Hotel from 10am, Wednesday, September 12.

It comes after Tourism Minister Arlene Foster launched the 2013/14 Tourism Event Funding Programme.

The scheme, administered by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB), aims to drive visitor numbers, increase spend in the local economy and raise the profile of Northern Ireland as a positive place to visit, live, work, study and invest in.

It will support and further develop national and international tourism events taking place from 1 April, 2013 until 31 March, 2014.

Speaking at the launch, Arlene Foster said: "Building on the legacy of ni2012 'Our Time, Our Place', the Tourism Events Funding Programme presents a great opportunity to keep the momentum going into 2013 and beyond.

"The events industry is of crucial importance to Northern Ireland and an innovative series of fresh events covering a broad range of our cultural, arts and sport offering is a great draw for tourists both at home and further afield." NITB is encouraging event organisers across Northern Ireland to be proactive and come forward to take advantage of the two financial programmes available.The International Tourism Events Fund will support high profile events that will attract a global audience and provide a high return on investment. The National Tourism Events Fund will support events that highlight the best that regions of Northern Ireland have to offer.

Local authorities remain responsible for events and festivals that positively impact local communities.

Susie McCullough, Director of Marketing and Events, NITB said: "The Tourism Event Funding Programme acts as a catalyst and motivator for the events industry. Events reflect the friendliness of our people, the vibrancy of our cities, the beauty of our landscapes and the commonality of our rich heritage.

"The Tourism Events Fund provides much needed support to promoters. It also helps the industry maximise proven economic benefits and showcases Northern Ireland as a world class destination." An open call for applications will be available to organisations or individuals in the public, private and voluntary sectors, from 10 September 2012. The events that receive support will be those that fit current themes and demonstrate how they meet 10 key criteria. Funding will be available for up to 50% of successful applicants' eligible costs.

The series of NITB road-shows, set up to help organisers with the application process, will take place in Enniskillen on Wednesday and also in Belfast, Derry/Londonderry, Coleraine and Newry over the next week. Details of road-shows, guidance and practical help are available from http://www.nitb.com/events, or alternatively contact the NITB Events Unit on Tel: 028 9044 1593 or email: eventsunit@nitb.com.