Island Games 202: Sponsorship launch

Businesses will be presented with opportunities to align with a globally recognised sporting event, dubbed a mini-Olympics for islanders, at the Villa Marina in Douglas on 2 November.

The Isle of Man is set to host the Island Games in July 2029, with more than 4,000 people from 24 competing islands expected to travel to the Isle of Man for six days of sporting competition, providing a significant boost to local tourism and facilities.

The 2025 Games, held in Orkney, generated more than 1,800 media reports, reaching an estimated audience of more than 50 million, as well as 600,000 livestreaming events.

A range of sponsorship packages will be presented, including the opportunity to become headline sponsor. This offers a unique chance to help shape the Games’ logo and branding.

Attendees will also learn about chances to sponsor individual sports, contributing to sporting achievement, community pride, volunteering, international engagement and legacy.

The Isle of Man has a proud history, having hosted the first ever event in 1985 and again in 2001, with the National Sports Centre standing as a legacy. The Isle of Man Government has already committed £2.6 million to upgrading facilities, including the athletics track, ahead of the homecoming event.

Sarah Maltby MHK, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture, said: “Hosting the Island Games is a once-in-a-generation opportunity and we want the right partners alongside us to make it truly memorable.”

Gary Corkhill, Chair of the 2029 Island Games Organising Committee, added: “An event of this scale depends on strong partnerships. Sponsorship is more than financial support, it is a shared commitment to shaping the Games experience, engaging audiences and contributing to a meaningful legacy. We will work closely with our partners to ensure each collaboration is tailored, professionally managed and delivers clear value through visibility, engagement and community impact.”