Madeira grants funding to two tourism events
The Regional Government approved grants of up to €6,000 for MARIOFA - Festival of Puppetry and Other Animated Forms, and up to €60,000 for the EHF Champions Cup 2026. The agreements support events planned for Funchal, Calheta and Porto Santo.
The Regional Government authorised two development and cooperation agreements to support events considered important for promoting and animating tourism in Madeira. The approved grants total up to €66,000, allocated to two different organisations and projects.
- Associação Nuvem Aquarela - MARIOFA - Festival of Puppetry and Other Animated Forms: Regional Government Council Resolution No. 953/2026 authorises a grant of up to €6,000. The festival’s 9th edition takes place from 8 to 10 October in Funchal and Calheta, featuring an artistic programme and the participation of Portuguese and international artists and companies. The agreement takes effect upon signature and remains in force until 30 December 2026.
- Portuguese Handball Federation - EHF Champions Cup 2026: Regional Government Council Resolution No. 954/2026 authorises a grant of up to €60,000. The international competition takes place in Porto Santo from 15 to 18 October and is expected to bring together teams, athletes, technical staff, referees, delegates and media representatives from several countries. The agreement takes effect upon signature and remains in force until 30 December 2026.
Both resolutions approve the respective draft agreements and stipulate that the arrangements be prepared and signed by the Regional Secretary for Tourism, Environment and Culture and the Regional Director of Tourism, on behalf of the Autonomous Region of Madeira.
The Government justifies the grants by the events’ contribution to diversifying the tourism offer and boosting activities such as accommodation, restaurants, transport and retail. In the case of the handball competition, the resolution also highlights the international promotion of Porto Santo and its potential to reduce tourism seasonality.
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