The Tourist Board of Zadar County has announced a Public Call for the allocation of non-repayable funds in 2025, aimed at the development of tourism products of special interest. This initiative aims to enrich the region’s tourist offer, create new reasons for visitor arrival, extend the duration of the tourist season, and reduce its seasonality, as well as to ensure a balanced development of tourism in all parts of the county.

The supports are intended for entities from the public and private sectors that operate as destination specialists and offer products of special interest. This includes local tourist boards, local self-government units, family agricultural farms (OPGs), institutions such as nature parks, and other organizations dedicated to nature protection. The funds can be used for equipment procurement, space arrangement for the development of the offer of tourism products of special interest, and for education aimed at specialization.

Hrvoje Anić, representative of the Tourist Board of Zadar County, stated: "With these supports, we continue the tradition of stimulating the development of the tourist offer, especially those aimed at special interests. Our goal is to motivate the arrival of tourists during the pre-season and off-season, reduce seasonality, and ensure a balanced development of tourism throughout the county." He added: "We encourage activities that create unique experiences and enhance the recognition of the Zadar region as a destination rich in offerings for the market of special interests."

The public call has been published on the official website of the Tourist Board of Zadar County. Applications are submitted online via a form available on the same page. The deadline for submitting applications is 30 days from the date of publication of the call.

This initiative is part of a broader strategy for tourism development in Zadar County, which includes the promotion of events, improvement of tourism infrastructure, and support for the tourism industry. According to the work program of the Tourist Board of Zadar County for 2025, significant funds are planned to be invested in various segments of tourism development, including systems for marking the quality of tourism products, support for the development of tourism events, and the development of eno-gastronomic tourism.

As part of these efforts, special attention is devoted to the development of eno-gastronomic tourism, with the aim of highlighting the native cuisine and cultivation traditions, thereby positioning Zadar County as a competitive destination in this segment. Planned activities include cooperation with renowned gastro-guides, creation of promotional materials, and organization of training for local producers and restaurateurs.

Through such programs and initiatives, the Tourist Board of Zadar County aims to create recognizable and high-quality tourism products that will attract visitors throughout the year, enrich their experience, and contribute to the sustainable development of tourism in the region.

In addition, emphasis is placed on the development of cultural tourism through the valorization of the rich historical and cultural heritage of Zadar County. Planned activities include the renovation and promotion of cultural monuments, organization of cultural events, and encouragement of cooperation between cultural institutions and the tourism sector.

In order to improve accommodation capacities, investments in quality accommodation facilities that reflect the authenticity and tradition of the region are planned. This includes the adaptation of old stone houses into luxurious villas, the development of boutique hotels, and the promotion of rural tourism through the renovation of village households.

The Tourist Board also plans to intensify the promotion of active tourism, including cycling and walking trails, climbing routes, and water sports. The goal is to attract enthusiasts of active leisure and nature by providing them with diverse opportunities for recreation and exploration of the natural beauty of Zadar County.

In the context of sustainable development, special attention is devoted to ecological initiatives, such as promoting environmentally friendly practices in tourism, waste reduction, conservation of natural resources, and educating local residents and visitors about the importance of environmental protection.

Through all these activities, the Tourist Board of Zadar County aims to create a balanced and sustainable tourism development that will benefit the local community, preserve natural and cultural values, and provide visitors with an authentic and unforgettable experience.