What Is Wight BID - and why it matters to your business
The Wight BID is a business-led initiative, funded by levy-paying tourism businesses, designed to grow the Island’s visitor economy and support local businesses.
In simple terms: it’s your collective investment working to bring more visitors, more visibility, and more opportunity to the Isle of Wight.
How the BID works.
1. Businesses contribute
A levy that is based on the rateable value of the business
2. Funding is pooled
To deliver marketing, support and growth activity
3. Activity drives results
Greater visibility, stronger businesses, better collaboration
What your investment delivers
Destination Marketing
Coordinated marketing across digital, PR, media and partnerships to raise the Island’s profile and drive demand for local businesses.
PR & Media Coverage
National and regional PR activity, media features and press coverage designed to showcase the Island and the businesses within it.
Insights & Data
Access to industry data, campaign performance and insights to help inform decisions and strengthen business performance.
Business Support & Training
Access training, workshops, webinars and resources designed to help businesses improve performance and adapt to changing markets.
Exhibitions & Trade Opportunities
Representation at key exhibitions and trade shows, helping showcase the Island and connect businesses with new audiences and partners.
Industry Representation
Representing the interests of local businesses at regional and national level, ensuring the Island has a strong and unified voice.
Not part of the levy? You can still get involved
Not all businesses fall within the BID levy, but that doesn’t mean you can’t benefit.
Become a voluntary contributor and access the same marketing, support and opportunities.
Being part of BID
The Wight BID supports the Island’s visitor economy through levy funding – but to unlock the best opportunities and support, businesses need to actively engage. Whether you’re a levy payer or not, there are ways to get involved and make the most of what’s available.
Levy-paying businesses
If your business falls within the Wight BID criteria, you contribute through the levy. You can claim a listing on the Visit Isle of Wight website, and your business will be included in marketing and promotional activity.
You’ll also be able to attend training sessions, workshops and webinars. Make sure we have all your correct details to keep you in the know.
Membership - this needs activation!
Businesses can register to become active Wight BID members, giving you the opportunity to have your say by voting on all Wight BID Company issues at Annual and General Meetings.
Voluntary contributors
We are committed to operating openly and in the best interests of levy payers.
If your business does not fall within the levy, you can still get involved.
Become a voluntary contributor and access the same marketing, support and opportunities as participating Wight BID businesses
Want to see the action from all our activity?
Explore the data behind the activity – from campaign performance and audience reach to measurable outcomes for the Island’s visitor economy.
Still Have Questions? You’ll probably find the answers here, but if not, please Contact Us
Everything You Need to Know About Wight BID
What is the Wight BID?
The Wight BID is a business-led initiative designed to support and grow the Isle of Wight visitor economy through destination marketing, PR, business support, events, partnerships and industry representation.
Who manages the Wight BID?
The BID is delivered by Visit Isle of Wight Ltd, an independent not-for-profit company governed by a Board of Directors made up of elected levy payers and strategic partners from across the Island.
How is the BID funded?
The BID is funded through a levy paid by eligible tourism and hospitality businesses within the BID area, alongside voluntary contributions and commercial revenue streams.
What does the BID actually do?
The BID delivers destination marketing campaigns, PR activity, visitor information, business support, industry training, event promotion, exhibitions, research and advocacy for the Island’s visitor economy.
How can my business get involved?
If you’re a levy-paying business, you’re already benefitting from the marketing activity of Visit Isle of Wight – and you can attend training and workshops. However, if you want to put your business directly in the spotlight, there are lots of ways to do so – from advertising directly with us, to becoming an exhibition partners. Reach our to jill@visitwight.org to see what’s right for you.
What is a Voluntary Contributor?
Voluntary Contribution allows businesses outside the BID levy criteria to financially contribute and access opportunities, visibility and support through Visit Isle of Wight activity.
How can Visit Isle of Wight help promote my business?
Businesses can access opportunities across the Visit Isle of Wight website, email marketing, social media, PR activity, digital campaigns and exhibitions to help reach more visitors.
Click here to see all available packages, or reach out to jill@visitwight.org
How do I submit an event?
You can submit your event through the Events page of the website. The team can also provide guidance on promoting your event and making sure it is compliant and visitor-ready.
Where can I find business support and resources?
The Business Support section includes webinars, training sessions, downloadable resources, visitor insights, industry updates and links to national guidance and support.
How can I stay up to date with BID activity?
You can stay informed through this website – we post our activity regularly – industry emails, webinars, BID LIVE sessions and regular communications from the Visit Isle of Wight team.
If I am a levy payer, why am I not a member?
Voluntary Contribution allows businesses outside the BID levy criteria to financially contribute and access opportunities, visibility and support through Visit Isle of Wight activity.
Do I need a visa for my trip?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality and destination. We can assist with visa applications if needed.
Are vaccinations required for certain destinations?
Some countries require vaccinations before entry. Check health guidelines or consult a doctor for necessary immunizations.
What travel documents should I bring?
You should carry a valid passport, visa (if required), travel insurance, and printed copies of your booking confirmation.
Do I need travel insurance?
While not always mandatory, travel insurance is highly recommended to cover medical emergencies, cancellations, and lost baggage.
Can you assist with flight bookings?
Yes, we offer flight booking services as part of our travel packages or as a separate service.
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