Northern Territory Major Events Company Event Funding

We’ve been delivering events across the Territory since 1999 and, as the front door for the local events industry, we’re also proud to  support world-class festivals and events from the Top End down to the Red Centre.

That support includes delivering the Event Funding Program (EFP) on behalf of the Northern Territory Government. The EFP  strengthens the Territory’s events sector by supporting the growth and development of events. This helps upskill the local workforce, provides opportunities for Territorians and encourage more people to visit the Territory to experience this incredible place we call home.

The focus of the EFP is to:

• Increase economic returns and visitation to the Territory, and showcase the uniqueness of the Territory
• Deliver a year-round event portfolio that supports shoulder and off-peak seasons
• Enhances the liveability of the Territory, with events that are strongly supported by, and demonstrate positive social impact  in, the community
• Provide opportunities for local businesses to leverage, participate in and benefit from events

Applicants may apply for funding in one of the following categories:

Aboriginal Cultural Events

This category is for events that celebrate and inspire the community to engage and build an understanding of Aboriginal culture.  These events also increase economic participation and social prosperity for Aboriginal Territorians by encouraging, supporting, empowering and building the capacity of Aboriginal businesses.

Events in this category must include more than 50 per cent of Aboriginal activities or experiences in event programming and involve Aboriginal people in the leadership, coordination and delivery of the event program through active participation (eg performers, food and beverage offerings or reference groups).

Sport Events

This category is for events that celebrate sport, encourage interstate participation and visitation, and improve the liveability of the Territory for Territorians.

Events must be affiliated or partner with one of the Territory's recognised Peak Sporting Bodies or an existing no-for-profit organisation registered in the Territory whose purpose is active recreation.

Cultural Events

This category is for events that celebrate the arts, music, culture, multiculturalism, food and beverage, innovation, diversity, niche interests and seasonality. They bring the community together to celebrate. 

Application Process

Applications for Round 2 of the 2023/24 NTMEC Event Funding Program:

• Open at 8am on Friday, 9 February 2024

• Close at 5pm on Friday, 1 March 2024.

Applications must be made online via SmartyGrants.

The funding guidelines can be viewed here and if you have any questions about this funding, please reach out to NTMEC.Grants@nt.gov.au or call 08 8999 5270 during business hours.