Published Thursday, 24 March 2011
With a number of major attractions to take place and milestones to be reached in the coming year, Arlene Foster said the money will be used to sell the region as a vibrant tourist destination.
Work is already well underway on the multi-million pound revamping of the Titanic Quarter in Belfast, ahead of the centenary of the ship's maiden voyage, with the flagship Titanic building to open.
Next year also marks the 50th anniversary of the Belfast Festival at Queen's, while Londonderry will look ahead to being 2013 City of Culture.
Launching the DETI and NI Tourist Board funding package, Ms Foster said 2012 will be a year of opportunity.
"The eyes of the world will be on Northern Ireland," the DUP minister said. "2012 presents a unique opportunity to deliver a year-long celebration of Northern Ireland - many significant events lie ahead."
She said it is hoped that 833,000 additional visitors, generating an additional £140m into the economy, will be attracted to NI over the next three years. Over 3,500 jobs could be created.
"By 2012 we will also have completed an investment of £300million in capital infrastructure, including the Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre and the Titanic Signature Project," Ms Foster added.
"2012 is just the start. It is a significant tipping point for Northern Ireland tourism and will help to increase visitor numbers and stimulate economic growth."