The extra funding has been added to the Year of Croeso Weatherproofing Fund, which supports businesses looking to install measures that allow them to operate more reliably throughout the year. Nearly 400 tourism and hospitality firms applied for grants ranging from £5,000 to £20,000, prompting ministers to increase the original £1.75 million budget.
The scheme is open to micro, small and medium-sized businesses employing between one and 250 people. Successful applicants can receive grants covering up to 75 per cent of eligible project costs, helping fund improvements such as covered outdoor areas, heating, shelters and other infrastructure designed to reduce disruption caused by wet or unpredictable weather.
Visit Wales research published last year highlighted the scale of the challenge facing the sector. The study found that 55 per cent of tourism businesses identified poor weather as the primary reason for reduced visitor numbers, underlining the vulnerability of many operators to seasonal fluctuations.
The Welsh Government said the expanded funding will allow more businesses to extend their operating seasons, improve the visitor experience and reduce the financial uncertainty that comes with relying heavily on favourable weather conditions. Ministers also said the investment will support more stable employment across the sector.
Cabinet secretary for economy, energy and planning Rebecca Evans said: "Our Welsh tourism and hospitality businesses offer fantastic year-round experiences, but the weather isn’t always on our side. By allocating a further £2m to our popular weatherproofing fund, the Welsh Government is helping nearly 400 businesses stay open longer, keeping people employed, and boosting local economies across Wales."
Tourism and hospitality play a significant role in the Welsh economy, accounting for 11.8 per cent of all jobs. The government said measures funded through the scheme are expected to support the creation of more full-time roles by reducing reliance on short seasonal contracts.
The additional funding forms part of Wales’ wider Year of Croeso campaign, which aims to promote a welcoming, high-quality visitor experience across the country. Officials said helping businesses adapt to changing weather patterns is essential if Wales is to remain competitive as a year-round destination for domestic and international travellers.
