Can You Get Funding for Marketing on the Isle of Man?
It's one of the questions I get asked most by island business owners, usually quietly, as if it's a secret: is there any help with funding for marketing on the Isle of Man?
The honest answer is sometimes, yes. But not for everything, and it's worth knowing what's what before you spend a penny.
What support is out there
The Isle of Man Government's Department for Enterprise runs several schemes to help local businesses grow, and some of them can help with marketing costs.
Business Consultancy Scheme: This has covered up to half the cost of bringing in a marketing consultant, up to £10,000, for work like reviewing your marketing strategy, planning and branding.
Micro Business Grant Scheme: If you're just starting out, this scheme offers new businesses training, financial support and mentoring to get off the ground.
Visitor economy schemes: If you run accommodation, an attraction, an activity or events, Visit Isle of Man lists extra marketing support, including help with one-off campaigns that bring new visitors to the island.
What it usually won't cover
This is the bit that catches people out. The marketing schemes are mostly designed around strategy and planning, not the day-to-day.
Regular social media posting, content creation, ongoing ad campaigns and printing are usually not eligible. So funding tends to suit the thinking part: working out who you're talking to, what you stand for and where to focus. Then you carry that plan forward yourself, or with support.
How to check what you could get
Criteria change and every business is different, so always check before you commit to anything.
Call the Enterprise Support Team on 01624 687333 and tell them what you're planning.
Ask whether you need approval before the work starts, so you don't miss out by jumping in too early.
Get a clear quote for the work, so you know exactly what you'd be asking them to support.
The details here were correct at the time of writing, but the Department always has the final word on what's available.
Where I can help get marketing funding on the Isle of Man?
A marketing strategy or brand review is exactly the kind of project these schemes have been built around. If you're thinking of applying, I'm happy to talk it through and give you a clear outline and quote to take to the Department.
Book a free discovery call and let's see what's possible for your business.
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