Do you have an idea for a unique visitor experience that showcases the best of Ards and North Down?
The Experience Development Programme 2027 opens for applications on 13 October 2026 and closes 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.
Apply now
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 2026/26
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
25 November | 09:15 - 12:00 | Find out more and book
2. From Product to Experience
16 December | 09:15 - 12:00 | Find out more and book
3. Designing the Experience Journey
6 January | 09:15 - 12:00 | Find out more and book
4. Stories People Remember
27 January | 09:15 - 12:00 | Find out more and book
5. Making the Experience Work
17 February | 09:15 - 12:00 | Find out more and book
6. Pricing for Profit
10 March | 09:15 - 12:00 | Find out more and book
7. Selling the Experience
7 April | 09:15 - 12:00 | Find out more and book [*Location TBC]
8. Experience Showcase – Pitch to Tourism NI
21 April | 09:15 - 12:00 | Find out more and book
All session will take place in Ards Blair Mayne Wellbeing and Leisure Complex, Newtownards unless stated *otherwise.
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.
Image credit: Avalon Guitars by Ricky Parker Photography
