Bolton launches game-changing Accelerator Programme for visitor economy business

The aim of the programme is to foster growth and increase collaboration within the tourism and hospitality sectors across Greater Manchester, initially focusing on businesses in Bolton, Bury and Rochdale as pilot locations.

All support is fully funded and all sessions including masterclasses, workshops and 1-1 support – in addition to promotional activity – will be free of charge for businesses who sign up to take part.

Officially launching on Monday 9 September 2024, Bolton businesses in the tourism and hospitality sector are invited to the first of many monthly networking sessions, with the September session focusing on the latest industry insights and emerging trends within the visitor economy.

Marketing Manchester will guide attendees through evolving consumer behaviours and the value businesses can gain from targeting new and emerging markets.

Additionally, the session will also explore available support options for tourism and hospitality businesses, including funding opportunities, training programmes and access to resources available through the Growth Company and Marketing Manchester.

Victoria Braddock, Managing Director at Marketing Manchester added:

“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.

“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.”

Cllr Nadeem Ayub, Executive Cabinet Member for Culture at Bolton Council 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 first event is entitled “Changing UK Visitor Markets: Emerging Trends, Evolving Consumer Habits and Available Support”.

It will take place on Monday September 9, 10am to 12pm in The Walker Suite, Victoria Hall, 37 Knowsley Street, Bolton, BL1 2AS.

This event is also a great opportunity to network with other business owners and managers operating in the tourism and hospitality sectors in Bolton.

This session is free to attend and refreshments will be provided throughout.

This project is funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

You can register here to attend.

There is also a new Facebook group that local tourism, hospitality and leisure businesses can join to stay up to date with upcoming events and information: www.facebook.com/groups/boltonhospitality