Dun Briste at Downpatrick Head – a key visitor site along the Mayo North section of the Wild Atlantic Way. Photo: Mayo North Tourism

Businesses, organisations and individuals invited to support tourism in north Mayo

As the 2025 membership window opens, Mayo North Tourism is calling on businesses, organisations and individuals to join its collaborative marketing network and help drive visitor numbers to north Mayo, west Sligo and surrounding areas.

The not-for-profit organisation plays a crucial role in promoting the region, generating economic benefits and strengthening the local tourism industry.

An independent assessment by Repucon Consulting, supported by Fáilte Ireland, found that Mayo North Tourism contributed an impressive €2.78 million in tourism-related revenue in 2023 alone. This impact is a testament to the organisation’s efforts in strategic marketing, media outreach, and partnership-building – all of which directly benefit local businesses and communities.

Over the past year, Mayo North Tourism has gone from strength to strength, earning the title of 'Best Community-Led Tourism Initiative 2024 – West of Ireland' at the European Travel Awards. One of its standout achievements was the promotion of the MV Shingle artificial reef, a project that reached an astonishing 2.9 million people globally, positioning north Mayo as a unique and sustainable tourism destination.

But the work extends beyond digital success. Mayo North Tourism has collaborated with national and international media, influencers and travel journalists, ensuring widespread coverage for north Mayo’s hidden gems.

The organisation has also been a driving force behind over 150 festivals and events, providing essential promotional support to boost visitor numbers throughout the year.

Now, Mayo North Tourism is inviting a diverse range of businesses and individuals to get involved by becoming members. Hotels, B&Bs, restaurants, visitor attractions, shops and even multinational companies can benefit from increased visibility through the organisation’s extensive marketing campaigns. Even individuals who value local tourism can contribute for as little as €25 per year.

By joining, members gain access to high-profile promotional opportunities, including a dedicated listing on www.northmayo.ie, the region’s leading tourism website, as well as social media exposure to over 67,000 followers.

Members are also featured in blog posts and quarterly e-zines sent to an engaged audience, with further opportunities for inclusion in national and international PR campaigns and media visits. Additionally, they receive professional image and video content for marketing use and representation at major tourism trade fairs and networking events, helping to boost their visibility and attract more visitors.

Looking ahead to 2025, Mayo North Tourism aims to expand its digital reach, strengthen influencer collaborations and continue its support of major events and festivals. The organisation is also committed to supporting Fáilte Ireland’s North Mayo Destination Experience Development Plan (DEDP), ensuring that the region remains a must-visit destination for years to come.

Mayo North Tourism manager Mairéad Melody Carr is keen to emphasise the power of collective effort. “By becoming a member, businesses are not just investing in their own visibility, but in the future of tourism across north Mayo and west Sligo. Our work has already made a significant economic impact and with continued collaboration, we can build on this success to benefit the entire region,” she said.

Membership rates are designed to be affordable and accessible, with business membership starting at €100 per year, alongside flexible payment options. New and returning members can sign up now until March 1 at www.northmayo.ie/become-a-member. For further details, contact info@mayonorth.ie or call (096) 80090.

Mayo North Tourism was founded in 2013 and operates under Moy Valley Resources IRD. It is supported by Ballina Municipal District GMA as well as by its members and Ballina Chamber of Commerce, which provides office space and utilities.

Ballina town, which lies at the heart of the north Mayo region. Photo: Mayo North Tourism