Wales' tourism industry is set to benefit from the latest developments in digital technology over the next four years as part of a new £17.4m scheme unveiled by the Welsh Assembly Government.

Welsh heritage minister Alun Ffred Jones said that funding would go towards a range of initiatives, designed to help tourism operators get the most out of technology that will assist with online marketing and booking systems. More than £9.2m has been provided by the European Regional Development Fund, in addition to nearly £4.5m from the Welsh Assembly Government and more than £3.7m from the private sector.

The project will include five elements, including Digital Tourism Business Environment, an online area for sharing research and business opportunities; Digital Tourism Communities and Developing and Exploiting the Knowledge Base. Piloting Innovative Approaches to Using Digital Technologies for Tourism Businesses, which will examine the benefit of using tools such as wireless and mobile technology and Technology are the two other strands.

Jones said: "These projects will ensure the tourism industry in Wales can get the maximum benefits from advances in technology to keep them competitive. "But this is not just about online marketing. It will also be about making the most of technology to run businesses more efficiently and ensure the industry is in a strong position to capitalise on new digital opportunities as they emerge."