Events Sector Covid Support Scheme

Please Note: We continue to assess submitted applications. If you have submitted an ESCSS application you will hear from us in due course via the email address you entered on your application form.

The Events Sector Covid Support Scheme (ESCSS) was launched as a support measure for those supplying services in the events sector to make a contribution to the overheads of businesses that have been significantly negatively affected by COVID-19 restrictions.

The scheme has funding of €11.5 million.

This scheme will be open to SMEs who provide services to the events industry including services to provide for the production of all forms of live performance, exhibitions and trade shows, including:

• event promoters
• event management
• conference organisers
• security
• supply of sound, lighting and stage equipment

Businesses that are not eligible for, and are not getting, the Covid Restrictions Support Scheme (CRSS) are eligible to apply.

• business must intend to resume trading in full once government restrictions are eased
• applications will be accepted for companies with VAT-exclusive turnover of €150, 000 and above
• support will be offered by way of a single once-off payment to the value of 7.5% of the VAT-exclusive turnover of the business, up to a maximum award of €50,000
• the business must be able to demonstrate that their turnover was no more than 25% of their average turnover for 2019 for any consecutive six months during the period 12 March 2020 - 31 March 2021
• grants received under Phase One of the Small Business Assistance Support Scheme for Covid (SBASC) and the Music and Entertainment Business Assistance Scheme (MEBAS) will be deducted from any ESCSS award
• businesses must have a current eTax Clearance Certificate from the Revenue Commissioners
• the business must be located in the State and the address of the business for tax purposes must be located wholly within a geographical region for which COVID-19 restrictions are in operation. Turnover eligible for this scheme can only be generated by activities in the State

Support will be offered by way of a single once-off payment to the value of 7.5% of the VAT-exclusive turnover of the business, up to a maximum award of €50,000.

Applications will be considered strictly by order of date and time of receipt by the department.

This Scheme is now CLOSED for applications. ESCSS opened for applications at 1pm on 4 August 2021 and remained open until 1pm on 31 August 2021.

Applicants are advised to read the guidelines for this scheme before completing their application.

• guidelines
• appeals process
• further information