Do you have an idea for a unique visitor experience that showcases the best of Ards and North Down?
The Experience Development Programme 2027 will open for applications on 13 October 2026 and close on 10 November 2026.
We are seeking innovative visitor experience ideas that align with one of three key themes:
• Food
• Culture
• Music
Whether you are a tourism business, attraction, producer, artist, venue, guide or community organisation, we want to hear how your idea could create memorable experiences for visitors while celebrating the distinctive character of our destination.
How to Apply
The initial application process is intentionally simple. The online form is short and designed to help us understand your experience concept and how it fits within the programme themes.
What Happens Next?
Following submission, applicants will be invited to meet with the Experience Development team to discuss their idea in more detail.
These discussions will focus on key factors including:
• Long-term viability
• Commercial potential
• Sustainability
• Visitor appeal
• Deliverability
Places on the programme are limited and only those concepts that demonstrate strong potential for long-term success and sustainability will be selected to progress.
Training and Support
Alongside the Experience Development Programme, a suite of training courses will be available for anyone interested in developing visitor experiences.
These practical workshops will provide guidance on experience design, storytelling, customer experience, marketing, pricing, sustainability and other key areas to help businesses and organisations create compelling visitor experiences.
Whether you are at the idea stage or already have an established tourism product, the training programme will provide valuable insights and tools to support your development journey.
1. Designing for Today’s Visitor
2. From Product to Experience
3. Designing the Experience Journey
4. Stories People Remember
5. Making the Experience Work
6. Pricing for Profit
7. Selling the Experience
8. Experience Showcase – Pitch to Tourism NI
Learn more about these training sessions and book >> here
[Bookings open soon]
Please note, training sessions are subject to change.
Don't miss this opportunity to help shape the future visitor offering of Ards and North Down.
