The Bermuda Tourism Authority is again looking for home-grown entertainment, launching a new initiative to highlight Bermudian artists.

In addition to renewing an initiative that invites Bermudians to submit their tourism ideas, offering funding for the top ideas, the BTA has sent out a request for proposal, calling for local entertainers and entertainment producers to come forward.

The RFP states: “Customer feedback from that research shows that our target visitors want local live entertainment in pop-up, intimate locations when they travel.

“With entertainment serving a catalyst that helps connect visitors to Bermuda and our culture, the goal is to create unique entertainment offerings featuring local entertainers in order to provide authentic cultural experiences.”

It states that the BTA is seeking proposals from “qualified, experienced companies, promoters or event producers” to put on a high quality, monthly entertainment showcase featuring a cross section of local entertainers celebrating Bermudian culture.

The promoter would also be expected to secure “unique venue locations” throughout the island, preferably in a tourism hub, create a marketing plan to advertise the show locally and overseas and align the production with customer feedback and research.

In order to apply, promoters would be required to take part in one of a series of free workshops being offered by the BTA on August 25 and 26.

The August 25 workshop will run from 4.30pm to 6.30pm, while workshops will be held at 8.30am and 4.30pm on August 26.

The BTA also announced that they would again be requesting submissions from the public about how to grow the tourism industry, with the BTA funding entrepreneur’s ideas for visitor experiences to take place in 2017, offering up to $75,000.

Applications will be split into four categories; sports, arts and culture, entertainment and new experiences.

Those interested in applying are also invited to participate in the same workshops, which are designed to educate potential applicants about how to create successful tourism experiences.

A spokesman said: “The same content will be shared at each session so applicants should only attend one session. Tourism industry trends and marketing strategies will be among the agenda items covered. Applications best aligned with industry trends and the BTA’s overall marketing strategies have the greatest likelihood to receive funding.”

Those interested in taking part in the workshops should register before August 23 at www.bteia.fluidreview.com.

The deadline for applications for both initiatives will be September 30.