14 hours ago
Flintshire tourism sector to benefit from new funding scheme
Known as the Flintshire Tourism Growth Fund, the scheme is now in its second phase and offers financial support to businesses that contribute to the visitor economy.
The scheme is delivered by Cadwyn Clwyd and funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Donna Hughes, business partnerships officer at Cadwyn Clwyd, said: "The Flintshire Tourism Growth Fund is aimed at businesses that contribute to the visitor economy in Flintshire as a whole.
"We have had successful applications from cafes, the retail sector, farm shops and delis – anything which is contributing to the visitor economy in Flintshire."
Cariad Gins (Image: Mandy Jones) In the first phase of the programme, 36 grants totalling £462,000 were awarded.
This led to the creation of 15.5 full-time equivalent jobs and the safeguarding of 117 jobs.
Ms Hughes recently visited Clwydian Range Distillery to see how owners Fiona Lewis and Simon Ollman used their grant to expand the business.
The distillery, based in Lixwm near Holywell, produces the award-winning Cariad Gin.
The couple received more than £7,700 to purchase distilling equipment, a storage container, an ice machine and a gazebo for events.
Ms Lewis said: "We couldn't have grown the business without the grant.
"For so many small businesses, these grant schemes are a crucial part of their growth and development.
"One of the best things about the programme is being able to contact the team so easily.
"If you're stuck you can just give them a call, the support we have received was fantastic.
"The grant really has made a big difference."
The couple launched the distillery in 2018 after Mr Ollman suffered a brain haemorrhage in 2013 that ended his career in civil engineering.
Ms Lewis said the business not only supported his recovery but also gave the family a new shared purpose.
The distillery was launched in 2018 (Image: Mandy Jones) Their blackcurrant gin won gold at the Wales Distilled Awards, where Mr Ollman was also named Distiller of the Year.
They have since expanded production into a dedicated distilling room and tasting space at their home.
The Flintshire Tourism Growth Fund supports existing micro, small and medium-sized businesses, as well as start-ups in the tourism and visitor economy sectors.
The first phase supported a wide range of projects, including EV charging points, glamping pods, kitchen upgrades, and training.
The deadline for applications to the second phase is July 31.
Ms Hughes encouraged businesses to apply soon.
She said: "The message to businesses is you need to be quick because the deadline is at the end of July."
