As tourism plays a vital role in Gozo’s economy, the Maltese government is committed to supporting hospitality operators on the island and enhancing their marketing efforts to attract more visitors. To achieve this goal, the government has introduced a funding scheme aimed at incentivising accommodation operators in Gozo to invest in digital marketing campaigns.
The funding scheme, administered by the Gozo Regional Committee, is specifically tailored to support hospitality operators, including hotels, guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, and holiday rentals, in Gozo.
The funding scheme offers financial assistance covering up to 65% of the eligible expenditure for undertaking a digital marketing campaign, up to a maximum of €8,000. Eligible operators must invest a minimum of €5,500 including the grant and the content marketing plan developed should cover between 6 to 12 months.Keen has been helping out small to medium sized businesses as a marketing partner taking advantage of schemes like this to offer digital marketing initiatives as the ones listed below. Get in touch with us for more information on how we can help you utilise and make the most out of such opportunities to promote your business at a fraction of the cost.
So, how does the funding scheme work, and what types of digital marketing initiatives are eligible for support?
According to the guidelines outlined by the Gozo Regional Committee, eligible initiatives may include but are not limited to:
Website Development and Optimisation: Funding may be provided to hospitality operators to develop or enhance their websites, ensuring they are user-friendly, mobile-responsive, and optimized for search engines. A well-designed website serves as a virtual storefront, providing potential guests with essential information about the accommodation, amenities, and booking options.
Search Engine Marketing (SEM): Operators can utilise funding to launch search engine marketing campaigns, such as Google Ads or Bing Ads, to increase visibility and drive traffic to their websites. SEM allows operators to target specific keywords and geographic locations, ensuring their ads reach potential guests actively searching for accommodation in Gozo.
Social Media Advertising: Funding may also be allocated for social media advertising campaigns on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Social media advertising enables operators to target and engage with potential guests based on their demographics, interests, and online behavior, ultimately driving bookings and generating leads.
Content Creation and Distribution: Funding may be allocated for the creation and distribution of high-quality content, such as blog posts, articles, videos, and infographics, showcasing the unique features and attractions of Gozo. Content marketing helps operators establish authority, build trust, and inspire travelers to choose Gozo as their next holiday destination.
Operators are required to submit a detailed project proposal outlining the objectives, activities, budget, and expected outcomes of the proposed initiative. Projects are evaluated based on criteria such as innovation, effectiveness, and potential impact on Gozo’s tourism sector.
By incentivising hospitality operators to invest in digital marketing initiatives, the funding scheme aims to enhance Gozo’s visibility, attract more tourists, and boost the island’s economy. In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is essential for success in the hospitality industry, and the funding scheme provides operators with the resources they need to thrive in an increasingly competitive market.
In conclusion, the funding scheme for digital marketing initiatives in Gozo presents a valuable opportunity for hospitality operators to enhance their marketing efforts, attract more guests, and contribute to the sustainable growth of Gozo’s tourism sector.
Reach out to us for more information on this funding scheme and how we can help you out as a marketing partner.