Department of Tourism Announces Call for Applications for the International Market Access Support Programme

The Department of Tourism is pleased to announce the opening of applications for the International Market Access Support Programme – Individual Support (IMASP-Individual Support) for the period from 1 October to 31 December 2024.

In an effort to boost the international presence of South African tourism enterprises and facilitate access to global markets, the Department of Tourism invites eligible small tourism enterprises to apply for financial support under the IMASP-Individual Support. This program aims to alleviate the high costs associated with participating in international tourism trade platforms outside of South Africa.

The IMASP-Individual Support provides individual financial assistance, on a reimbursement basis, to qualifying small tourism enterprises. The support is intended for those looking to showcase their products and services at international tourism trade platforms. Eligible enterprises include small and established inbound operators with previous experience in exhibiting at trade platforms, packaging tourism offerings, and successfully negotiating and selling tourism experiences to international buyers.

Key features of the IMASP-Individual Support program include:

• Financial support is provided on a reimbursement basis.
• The Department does not incur any upfront costs on behalf of qualifying enterprises.
• Successful applicants are responsible for all arrangements and payments related to their participation at supported trade platforms.
• Claimable cost elements include return economy airfare, accommodation, exhibition participation cost, ground transport costs, and limited shipping costs for promotional materials.

To apply for the IMASP-Individual Support, interested enterprises must submit their applications, including an exhibition/roadshow participation quotation from the show organizer and a detailed brochure of the event they are applying for. Applications must be submitted to tipapplications@tourism.gov.za with the subject "IMASP Individual Support Application."

The closing date for applications is 20 March 2024, 16h00pm.

For detailed program guidelines and the application form, please visit the Department of Tourism's website: IMASP-Individual Support Program.

For further information and inquiries, please contact:

Ms Kgadi Papo Tel: 012 444 6388 E-mail: KPapo@tourism.gov.za

Ms Shereen Gurannah Tel: 012 444 6648 E-mail: SGurannah@tourism.gov.za

The Department of Tourism encourages eligible enterprises to take advantage of this opportunity to expand their international reach and contribute to the growth of South Africa's tourism industry.