Visit Britain has launched a programme to attract more global business events to the UK.
The four-year Event Support Programme offers “advocacy and funding to grow and develop” the UK’s international business events industry, currently worth about £19 billion to the economy.
The programme is open to Destination Management Organisations (DMOs) or venues and event organisers and offers the chance to apply for funding from a pool of £1 million annually.
Organisations can also apply for non-financial support in the form of endorsement from advocates including Government Ministers, overseas diplomatic missions, UK Trade & Investment and other influencers.
Tourism Minister Tracey Crouch said: "Britain is open for business and we want to encourage as many people to visit and organise their events in the UK.
“This new programme will help grow this multi-billion pound industry even further, boosting our economy and bringing more people to our shores," she said.
Visit Britain said support is available for activities that help secure business events for Britain, develop new events and boost the economic impact of existing events.
Last year, the government asked Visit Britain to undertake business events promotion for England, five years after it ceased responsibility.