ontario tourism grants

Tourism Business Grants: 21 Funding Programs Currently Available

If you’re looking for tourism business grants , you’re in the right place!

Because we have the most comprehensive, up-to-date guide on grants and other types of funding for entrepreneurs running tourism businesses.

In this guide you’ll learn what’s available, eligibility requirements, how much you can get, and much more!

What Can Tourism Business Grants Be Used For?

Tourism business grants can be used to pay for many aspects of starting or running a business. Here are some of the uses that are covered by programs in our grants database :

See the section below with a complete list of tourism business grants available.

How Much Grant Money Can I Get for My Tourism Business?

In our database we currently have grants ranging from $2,400 to $25,000 .

Am I Eligible for a Tourism Business Grant? Common Eligibility Criteria

Two of the most common questions we get asked at Ontario Business Grants are “Am I eligible?” and “How do I qualify?”.

We analyzed the tourism business grants in our grants database, and these are the most common qualifications we identified:

Note: these are just the most common eligibility criteria.

Tourism Business Grants for Ontario: Current Grants Available

In the table below we list the grants currently available to Ontario tourism businesses.

To learn more about each program, just click the program name and you’ll be taken to a web page that provides detailed information on the program, including eligibility, the dollar amount of the program, and how to apply for the grant:

Grants for Ontario Tourism Businesses

Other Types of Funding for Tourism Businesses

Our goal is for this guide to be a complete source of funding information for Tourism businesses. So, in this section you’ll find all the other money programs (besides grants) that are available to Tourism entrepreneurs:

Loans for Tourism Businesses

A loan might not sound as good as a grant, but many loans for tourism businesses have a low interest rate. While they might not be free money, if you don’t qualify for a grant, a low-interest loan is probably the next best thing.

The programs below include non-profit loans:

• Subsidies for Tourism Businesses

A subsidy is a type of financial assistance usually provided by the government in order to promote a social good or an economic policy. Wage subsidies are the most common subsidies.

Guaranteed Government Grants

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In the table below you’ll find the subsidies currently available for tourism businesses:

 Subsidies for Tourism Businesses

Best Tourism Business Grants, Loans & More

While there are lots of good programs available, below we highlight some of the best grants, loans, subsidies & more for Tourism businesses :

Best Government Grants for Tourism Businesses

Innovation, Science and Economic Development (ISED) – Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP): Grow Your Business Online

The Canada Digital Adoption Program provides businesses with financing, tools and resources to adopt e-commerce platforms and implement digital transformation plans.

The Grow Your Business Online grant will provide micro-grants of up to $2,400 to small businesses to help with the costs related to adopting digital technologies.

Best Non-profit Grants for Tourism Businesses

Blue Sky Economic Growth Corporation (BSEGC) – BTIF Program

BTIF is a FedNor-funded initiative which assists SMEs in the Blue Sky Net region within Northeastern Ontario develop their capacity for business technology and their ability for technology adoption. The BTIF grant helps to alleviate the costs of implementing innovative technology solutions.

Destination Markham Corporation (DMC) – Partnership Support Program

DMC’s Partnership Support Program provides support to tourism organizations who are working through the pandemic to keep their business open and facilitating projects for the recovery and revitalization of the visitor economy in Markham.

Northwestern Ontario Innovation Centre (NOIC) – BTIF Program

The BTIF Program provides support to Northwestern Ontario businesses for implementing innovative technologies to enhance their websites and social media, their business processes with hardware or software, their human capital development and technology education, their customer relationship management and online service.

Regional Tourism Organization 9 (RTO9) – Partnership Funding

RTO 9’s Partnership Fund is designed to forge strong and diverse partnerships that either build on existing tourism products or introduce new tourism products. These projects serve to enhance the region’s diversity of offerings to create a competitive advantage in tourism experiences throughout the South Eastern Ontario region.

Best Non-profit Loans for Tourism Businesses

Community Futures Oxford – Future Oxford Legacy Fund – Access to Capital

The goal of the Future Oxford Legacy Fund – Access to Capital component will be to cultivate entrepreneurship throughout Oxford, thereby building a vibrant and sustainable economy. Priority sectors include youth entrepreneurship and employment, arts, culture, tourism, high-tech manufacturing, green technology, and locally grown and processed agriculture products. Access to capital provides flexible repayment terms, negotiated to encourage the long-term viability of the borrower.

Community Futures Oxford – Sand Plains Community Development Fund

The Sand Plains Community Development Fund provides loans of up to $250,000 to new or existing businesses in Oxford County. The goal of this Fund is to foster entrepreneurship in the region by increasing the availability of patient capital for small business start-ups and expansions in priority sectors. Patient capital provides flexible repayment terms, negotiated to encourage the long-term viability of the borrower.

Loans can be used for the following:

Best Non-Profit Subsidy for Tourism Businesses

Tourism HR Canada – Propel Student Work Placement Program

Funded by the Government of Canada through the Student Work Placement Program , Propel offers registered Canadian businesses, startups, and not-for-profits related to the tourism and hospitality sector a subsidy on each qualifying student’s wages. The wage subsidy can be accessed by businesses from all facets of the visitor economy: accommodations, food and beverage services, recreation and entertainment, transportation, and travel services.

About the author

Maurice (Moe) Muise learned the ins-and-outs of government while an employee of the Government of Canada in Ottawa for 10 years. His current focus is helping small businesses in Ontario to identify and maximize government grants to grow their business. Click here to learn more about Moe’s background and how he can help your business.

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Ontario to provide grants for tourism and travel businesses in need of support

Abby O'Brien CTVNewsToronto.ca Journalist

@abbyjobrien Contact

A sparse crowd is seen on the normally jammed walkway in Niagara Falls, Ont., on Monday, July 13, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Colin Perkel

TORONTO -- The Ontario Government is rolling out a new program that will provide one-time payments of up to $20,000 to eligible travel and tourism businesses through the new $100-million Ontario Tourism and Travel Small Business Support Grant.

On May 13, Lisa MacLeod, the Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries, announced the new support program , which will aim to support businesses that did not receive the Ontario Small Business Support Grant (OSBSG) , such as travel agents, hotels, motels, resorts, and bed and breakfasts.

“Our government is working with small businesses to overcome the challenges of the past year – through programs like the Ontario Tourism and Travel Small Business Support Grant – and help the tourism industry reclaim its place as an economic powerhouse and key job creator in our province,” MacLeod said.

To qualify for the grant, businesses must have fewer than 100 employees and be able to demonstrate that they have experienced a minimum 20 per cent decline in revenue between 2019 and 2020.

The Ministry says that small business owners can use the grant in whatever way makes the most sense for their business.

"The Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO) is delighted at today’s announcement that $100 million will be flowing directly to tourism businesses, which have been so badly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic,” Carol Greenwood, Interim President and CEO, Tourism Industry Association of Ontario said.

“This important investment will not only secure Ontarians' jobs and businesses in the tourism industry but also ensure that the tourism industry is best placed to lead our province's economic resurgence,” she continued.

Applications for this grant are open as of May 13, 2021 and will close on Friday, June 25, 2021.

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Advisory: Province Launches New Ontario Tourism and Travel Small Business Support Grant

Discover Ontario, Canada

Explore Ontario, a premier four-season travel destination fuelled by millions of tourists annually. With a thriving domestic scene and many attractions, Ontario offers endless investment opportunities in its booming tourism industry.

Ontario’s tourism metrics

of all visits to Canada

of all international visits to Canada

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of total GDP

tourism related businesses

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Ontario is your tourism investment destination

An established industry with boundless opportunities

Uncover Ontario's year-round tourism allure, captivating both domestic and international visitors alike. From renowned attractions like Niagara Falls to the CN Tower, Ontario welcomes global tourists while enticing domestic travelers with its diverse landscapes and recreational opportunities. With over half of Canada's visits directed here, Ontario's natural wonders, including 250,000 lakes and the Great Lakes, offer ample opportunities for both domestic and international tourism-driven businesses to thrive.

lakes to discover

provincial parks with more than 100 camping facilities

Ontario: Accessible by air, rail, road, and water

Ontario offers modern transportation infrastructure, including international airports and national and regional rail systems, ensuring seamless travel experiences for tourists. With a vast network of highways spanning 16,900 kilometers (approximately 10,501.17 miles), navigating within the province is convenient and efficient. Whether arriving by air, rail, or road, visitors find accessibility to various destinations effortless, thanks to Ontario's well-connected transportation network.

When I first saw the site—nine acres on the waterfront in downtown Toronto waiting to be developed—I was blown away. It was so special. I could not resist it. I do not think there is anything like it in the world. Within the next three years I am hoping to build another hotel on the site, similar in size to Hotel X Toronto.

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President and Founder of Hotel X and Library Hotel Collection

Ontario: A World of Opportunities

Leverage Ontario's multicultural landscape, providing access to a diverse consumer market enriched by international influences. Experience the thriving demand for global products and cultural experiences, where companies can capitalize on promising opportunities. Explore renowned cultural hubs like Little Italy and Chinatown, reflecting Ontario's vibrant international representation and culinary diversity, enriching the consumer experience and expanding business prospects.  

Empowering Tourism Success in Ontario

Experience Ontario's dedication to ensuring your tourism investments flourish. Benefit from personalized support and tailored incentive programs designed to drive your success. Through strategic partnerships with regional tourism organizations, our commitment is to amplify and promote investments in Ontario's tourism sector. Explore funding opportunities such as the Experience Ontario 2024 to further elevate your ventures.

My dream was to bring a world class attraction to a world class city— an accessible 60-minute drive for 10 million residents, with millions more visitors a year. After a rigorous search, we found the perfect home to invest in, right in the heart of downtown Toronto at Yonge and Dundas. [This is] the multi-cultural intersection of Canada and steps from the biggest resident and tourist markets in the country. The perfect place to evoke a sense of wonder, curiosity, and connection to Canada.

Jean-Louis Brenninkmeijer

Founder and President Little Canada

Ontario's Tourism & Hospitality Education Programs

Highlighting the breadth of Ontario's tourism industry, these colleges and universities reflect the presence of a well-trained workforce across various sectors including accommodation, food and beverage, recreation, entertainment, travel services, and transportation.

Leading Tourism & Hospitality Giants in Ontario 

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Funding Opportunities

Grants Ontario

Grants Ontario is your source for grants provided by Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries as well by several Ontario ministries and agencies. Grant Ontario provides you with one-window access to information about grants that are available to you, how to apply for grants, and how to check the status of your application.

Funding & Grant Opportunities for the Tourism Sector

There are many funding and grant opportunities to support tourism businesses in Ontario. Here is a look of the most recent opportunities to apply for.

Ontario Trillium Foundation

(OTF) is an agency of the Government of Ontario, and Canada’s largest granting foundation. Over $110 million is awarded annually to some 1,000 nonprofit and charitable organizations across the province. Apply to any one of the different granting programs to meet different needs.

Tourism Development Fund

The Tourism Development Fund (TDF) provides non-capital, project-based funding to support investment attraction, product and experience development on a pan-provincial or multi-regional basis, and industry capacity building to help develop Ontario as a successful tourism destination.

ITAC Indigenous Tourism Fund Micro & Small Business

This funding program recognizes market readiness standards set by The Original Original Accreditation Program, taking into account factors such as resource availability, cash flow, and market dynamics.

Tourism Workforce Sustainability Program

TIAO’s Tourism Workforce Sustainability Program aims to expand and diversify Ontario’s tourism workforce while helping employers retain employees for the long-term sustainability of their businesses and the industry.

Advanced Digital and Professional Training (ADaPT)

ADaPT meets employer needs and provides post-secondary graduates with 70+ hours of no-cost training on in-demand skills through professional and digital workshops and alternative pathways to meaningful careers.

Tourism Growth Program in Southern Ontario

The Tourism Growth Program (TGP) provides $108 million over 3 years to support communities, small- and medium-sized businesses and not-for-profit organizations in developing local tourism products and experiences.

Summer Experience Program (SEP)

The Summer Experience Program (SEP) is an annual summer employment grant program providing career-related employment opportunities for youth in a variety of areas including tourism, citizenship,cultural, sport and recreation sectors.

Young Canada Works (YCW)

Offers eligible employers wage subsidies and access to a pool of talented youth with innovative ideas and competitive skills. Subsidies to eligible employers enable the creation of about 2,300 job opportunities per year in the fields of heritage, arts, culture. and official languages.

Save On Energy Small Business Programs

The Save On Energy programs and incentives make it easy to upgrade your business with energy efficient retrofits to help improve your bottom line and your impact on the environment.

Canada Cultural Investment Fund

Provides financial assistance for projects involving multiple partners that help arts and heritage organizations improve their business practices and diversify their revenues.

Canada Ontario Job Grant Program

Provides direct financial support to individual employers or employer consortia who wish to purchase training for their employees.

Ontario Arts Council

The Ontario Arts Council currently offers more than 65 grant programs to individual artists, collectives, ad hoc groups and organizations in twelve sectors.

Canadian Experiences Fund

The Canadian Experiences Fund (CEF) provides $58.5 million ($6 million in Atlantic Canada) over two years to support communities across Canada as they create, improve or enhance tourism products, facilities and experiences.

Multicultural Community Capacity Grant Program

This program provides funding to not-for-profit organizations that focus on newcomers and ethnocultural groups for projects that promote diversity and inclusion. This is to make it easier for newcomers and ethnocultural communities to fully participate in all facets of life in Ontario.

The Ontario Music Fund

The Ontario Music Fund (OMF), administered by the Ontario Music Office (OMO), is aimed at stimulating growth in Ontario’s music companies and supporting this growing sector. The Fund is designed to drive activity and investment to support Ontario’s music companies/organizations in expanding their economic and cultural footprints within Canada and around the world.

Supports communities across Canada as they create and enhance tourism products, facilities and experiences.

Digital Main Street

Digital Main Street is a digital “how to” guide and program to help you grow your business. The program is supported in partnership with the Province of Ontario.

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We help Ontario's economy and quality of life through strategic support and investment by:

• working with the tourism industry and regional tourism organizations to support businesses and attract international investment
• investing in festivals and events across the province
• promoting the arts and the creative economy
• funding public libraries and community museums
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• supporting growth of the sport sector through investments that increase tourism and provide athletes of all abilities and circumstances the opportunity to participate in sport at all levels
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The ministry administers the following legislation:

• Ontario Heritage Act , in respect of clauses 70(1)(a) and (e) as they relate to museums
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• Accommodation Sector Registration of Guests Act, 2021 , responsibility for which, when it comes into force, will be shared with the Solicitor General
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• Ministry of Citizenship and Culture Act , in respect of culture matters
• Ministry of Tourism and Recreation Act
• Niagara Parks Act
• Ontario Wine Week Act
• Ottawa Convention Centre Corporation Act
• Poet Laureate of Ontario Act (In Memory of Gord Downie), 2019
• Rowan's Law (Concussion Safety), 2017
• Royal Botanical Gardens Act, 1989 (private act)
• Royal Ontario Museum Act
• Science North Act
• Special Hockey Day Act, 2018
• St. Lawrence Parks Commission Act
• Status of Ontario’s Artists Act

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Experience Ontario 2024 is Open for Applications

The Ontario Government is launching the Experience Ontario 2024 program, allocating $19.5 million in funding for eligible in-person festivals scheduled between April 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025. This funding opportunity allows event organizers to apply for financial support from the provincial government. The application period is currently open and will be close on January 11, 2024, at 5 p.m. EST. Take advantage of this chance to secure assistance for your event and contribute to the success of festivals in the upcoming year.  

For more information about the program, please access the following link .   

Information about how to apply is available at the following link , you can also watch the following YouTube video for further instructions on the application process.  

Note: Experience Ontario is a highly competitive program and applications will be measured against program criteria and there is no guarantee of funding.  

If you have any questions or inquiries, please contact Alexander Miceli, Manager of Policy and Government Affairs, at [email protected] .  

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Tourism growth program.

The Tourism Growth Program (TGP) is a key element of the new Federal Tourism Growth Strategy , which builds on Canada's inherent strengths and unique qualities while using a whole-of-government approach to realize the full potential of the tourism industry.

With $108 million in federal funding, the TGP will be delivered by Canada's regional development agencies over three years, starting in 2023–24. The program will support Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, small and medium-sized businesses and not-for-profit organizations in developing local, community-level tourism products and experiences to help more domestic and international visitors discover all that Canada has to offer.

The Government of Canada's seven regional development agencies will deliver this program, given that their mandate is to promote regional economic development.

The TGP will fund projects that provide added value to existing activities in the tourism industry and focus on business and economic growth. Indigenous tourism is a priority under the TGP, and approximately 15% of TGP funding will support Indigenous-led tourism initiatives.

The TGP will help leverage tourism opportunities in communities, including those that are rural and remote. The program also complements support for the tourism industry provided through other federal, provincial and territorial programs.

To find out more, visit your regional development agency's web page

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Tourism growth program in southern ontario: how to apply as a not-for-profit.

• 1. What this program offers
• 2. How funding works
• 3. How projects are assessed
• 4. When to apply
• 5. How to apply as a business

6. How to apply as a not-for-profit

Please read this guide before submitting an Application for Funding (Not-for-Profit Applicants).

Businesses: refer to How to apply as a business .

On this page

• How to complete the Application for Funding
• Applicant Information
• Authorized Project and Financial Contacts
• Project Information
• Project Results
• Project Budget
• Financial Information

Certification

• Confidentiality, Reporting and Visibility Requirements

Application Checklist

Annex a – project indicator definitions, annex b – cost categories, how to complete the application for funding - for not-for-profits.

Application for Funding will become available when the next intake opens.

Tourism Growth Program in southern Ontario – Application Guide for Not-For-Profit (NFP) Applicants

Purpose of this guide.

The application guide is to help organizations complete FedDev Ontario's Application for Funding form (Not-for-Profit Applicants). This guide explains how to complete each section of the form and how to tailor your responses for the Tourism Growth Program (TGP).

Applicant Information (Q1-18)

This section of the Application for Funding requires all applicants to provide details on their organization.

When completing this section, please note the following:

• In question 1, provide your organization legal name as it appears on your articles of incorporation document(s). Do not include your own name. If your organization conducts business publicly by another operating name, please state this in question 2 .
• In question 5 , if you are an Indigenous applicant, a CRA business number is not mandatory to apply and you may, instead, include your 3-digit band number in question 6 . If you are an Indigenous applicant with a CRA business number, please enter it into the field provided.
• a copy of the organization's incorporation document(s)
• biographies of key management team and project team members
• Full-time employees (FTEs) working in Canada are those who work a minimum of a 35-hour work week. They can include employees who may be working remotely in Canada.
• Part-time employees (PTEs) in Canada are those employees who work less than a 35-hour work week. They can include employees who may be working remotely in Canada.
• Number of employees outside of Canada is the total number of employees (full-time and part-time) working for the organization outside of Canada, if applicable.

Authorized Project and Financial Contacts (Q19-20)

We are looking for the names and contact information for the primary contacts for communicating with FedDev Ontario on matters involving the application and project financials (if they are different). Ideally, the authorized contact person is a signing officer who has full authority to bind the organization through funding agreements. If the person is not a signing officer of the organization, confirmation of that person's right to represent the organization may be required. Neither the Authorized Project Contact nor the Financial Contact can be a consultant or third party.

The applicant and/or any parties authorized by the applicant to speak to FedDev Ontario on their behalf must comply with the Lobbying Act throughout the application process and the life of any funded project. Before communicating with FedDev Ontario about an application, please review the provisions of the Act. For more information on lobbying and the Lobbying Act , consult the Office of the Commissioner of Lobbying of Canada .

Project Information (Q21-36)

This section provides a detailed account of the proposed project, including duration, location of activities and overall plan. When completing this section, please note the following:

• In question 22, please enter "Tourism Growth Program" in this field.
• In questions 23, the start date cannot be before March 29, 2023.
• In question 24 , the end date cannot be after March 31, 2026.
• In question 26, indicate whether any of the proposed project's activities are expected to occur on federal lands as defined in the Impact Assessment Act , 2019 . Activities on federal lands could be subject to additional requirements.
• In question 28, please describe your project plan and include the detailed steps required to successfully achieve your expected outcomes. Your plan should demonstrate links to the eligible project activities as stated in Section 2: How funding works . Note: depending on the nature of your project activities, you may be expected to complete all federal requirements related to the Impact Assessment Act 2019 , and the duty to consult with Indigenous Groups as set out in Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982 . To find out more, visit the Government of Canada and the duty to consult .
• The expected outcomes and how the project will support and encourage the improvement of regional tourism assets, regional dispersion and growth in the tourism industry.
• Explain how your project is aligned with the Federal Tourism Growth Strategy (if applicable).
• supporting the Indigenous tourism industry
• increasing tourism benefits for communities by driving visitation from urban areas to rural areas
• supporting economic, environmental and cultural sustainability
• supporting active outdoor experiences (e.g., projects that provide more opportunities for physically active tourism offerings such as rock-climbing, trails, watersports, etc.)
• extending the tourism season (e.g., projects that promote and/or develop product, services or experiences with an aim of increasing tourism activity outside the traditional high season or extending their services year-round)
• complement support provided through provincial programs
• In question 30, indicate 'no' on the Application for Funding.
• In question 31, indicate and provide details as how on the clean growth benefits of your project, including environmental benefits to be realized. If 'yes' is selected, provide information on how your project is focused on greening of your operations or promoting green practices in the tourism industry. For more information and examples of sustainable tourism, refer to the Federal Tourism Growth Strategy . Where possible, provide metrics to quantify the impact (e.g., percentage of energy or water saved, amount of greenhouse gas emissions reduced, amount of waste diverted from landfill, amounts of air pollutants reduced, etc.). Include a timeframe over which these benefits will be realized.

Clean growth is about fostering economic growth that reduces environmental impacts and strengthens resilience to a changing climate.

This is done through initiatives that promote and support clean growth outcomes (e.g., emissions reductions, waste reduction, sustainable jobs, etc.). This can include the introduction of practices to reduce carbon footprint or waste, the adoption or commercialization of clean technologies, circular economy initiatives, greening communities, and supply chain localization.

The Government of Canada is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion so that all Canadians have the opportunity to participate in and contribute to the growth of the economy. Gender, equity, and diversity data collected may be used for research, statistics, program and policy evaluation, risk management, strategy development, reporting, and gender-based analysis (including GBA+). This information can help the Government of Canada monitor progress on inclusive access to federal support programs and services, identify and remove barriers, and make changes to improve inclusive access. Aggregate and anonymous data may be shared with other federal organizations and published for reporting and monitoring purposes.

Question 32 has 3 components:

Note : "led or majority-led" describes organizations where members of underrepresented groups are involved in long-term control and management of the organization and play an active role in both strategic and day-to-day decision-making.

• The second column seeks to understand whether the project will benefit or encourage the inclusion of 1 or more underrepresented group. The responses to this column are linked to the third section of this question, where applicants are asked to explain how their organization will influence federal inclusive growth priorities.
• In completing the third section, describe in detail how your organization and project promotes diversity, equity and inclusion, and include any supporting documentation as attachments, if applicable. Please explain both ongoing and planned methods in which your organization is addressing the representation of underrepresented groups. Examples of initiatives could include projects that develop inclusive tourism experiences (e.g., enhancing accessibility or creating a welcoming environment for diverse clientele) and/or your organizational diversity plan or policies and participation in the 50-30 Challenge. Describe relevant results and the timeframe in which they will be achieved. Refer to the guidance in question 37 when describing results.

FedDev Ontario continues to champion the 50-30 Challenge, where applicants are encouraged to take voluntary actions to achieve gender parity (50%) and significant representation (at least 30%) of underrepresented groups on their boards and in senior management. If you are already a participant, please include this on your application. If you are not yet a participant but wish to join, please note this on your application. Refer to the 50-30 Challenge .

Note: You will also be asked to describe the financial contributions to be made and the status of each contribution (e.g., confirmed, pending confirmation, to be requested) for each identified key project partner in the Project Budget section . Any letters of intent/support from partners should be attached to the application and describe the amount and nature of both cash and in-kind contributions secured. If your project is approved, you will be expected to confirm all sources of the matching funding within 30 days of being notified.

• In question 34, describe the clientele and value proposition for your project. Please use this section to also outline any linkages your proposed project has with any element(s) of the Government of Canada's Federal Tourism Growth Strategy . Describe in detail, with metrics, the impact the project will have in supporting tourism destination development in southern Ontario and enhancing Canada's competitiveness as an international tourism destination.
• In question 35 , indicate key risks associated with the project (e.g., financial, regulatory, implementation, any risks that may impact a successful project outcome) and potential risk to the broader economy (e.g., cybersecurity, privacy). Indicate whether permits for building or infrastructure-related activities are needed and/or whether they have been obtained. Also, please identify risk mitigation measures for the project.
• In question 36 , illustrate why financial assistance is required for this project and explain what the impact would be if the requested funding was not received. This section could include the broader impact(s) on the organization and/or the tourism cluster or industry in which you support if funding is not received.

Project Results (Q37)

All values provided under this section must be measurable and verifiable. Recognizing that not all indicators apply to every project proposal, applicants can select "No" for any of the options and will not need to complete the corresponding "Amount" column.

Not-for-profit organizations applying for support under the Tourism Growth Program are not necessarily expected to have results for many of the pre-populated results fields in question 37 of the Application for Funding. Use the + button in the table in this section to add the following "program specific indicators" as they apply to your proposed project. Please refer to Annex A for definitions of each indicator.

All amounts reported in this section must be measured from the estimated Start Date of the project to the End Date of the project. Any details provided in this section should be as realistic and achievable as possible, as you will be asked to report on these results throughout the project's duration. Any benefits that fall outside of this timeframe may be highlighted in question 29 instead.

Project Budget (Q38-39)

By completing this section, you are providing FedDev Ontario with the key project financing information needed to assess whether the resources requested are both incremental and appropriate for further review, including:

• estimated total project costs, how much funding you are requesting, and a breakdown of this funding by fiscal year and cost category
• whether you have secured your portion of the financing, and the source(s) and status of any other funding

Information provided in this section may be supported with a more detailed project budget and breakdown of costs submitted as an attachment. If your project is approved, you will be expected to confirm all sources of the matching funding within 30 days of being notified.

Important notes:

• All eligible costs must be incremental, reasonable and directly related to eligible project activities. Please see Annex B for more details on eligible and ineligible costs.
• State costs in Canadian dollars (CAD) over the span of the project duration ( Note: fiscal year is defined as April 1 to March 31).
• Costs incurred prior to March 29, 2023, or after March 31, 2026, cannot be considered as eligible costs. Note: if your project is complete or substantially complete by the time of your application then it is not eligible for support under this program.
• If there are no costs associated for a cost category, enter "0" in the amount column for that cost category.
• All projects and associated costs must be completed by the estimated End Date of the project.
• Cash contributions : Cash asset transactions which are provided by interested parties in support of a federally approved transfer payment project or initiative.
• In-kind contributions : non-cash asset transactions valued at fair market value (e.g., securities, equipment, use of facilities, labour, goods) that are provided by interested parties in support of a federally approved transfer payment project or initiative.

Financial Information (Q40-42)

This section will allow FedDev Ontario to assess your organization's capacity to undertake the proposed project, including:

• If you have received government funding from any level (federal, provincial, municipal) in the last 5 years ( question 40 ) and, if applicable, use some of the space provided in question 41 to explain the status and outcomes of this funding. When completing this section, please reference any past support received from FedDev Ontario (e.g., Tourism Relief Fund, Canada Community Revitalization Fund, Canadian Experiences Fund) or funding received from a Regional Tourism Organization supported by FedDev Ontario.
• Your organization's financial performance (e.g., assets, liabilities, cost structure, revenue streams). Note that forecasted revenue cannot be leveraged as a source of project financing.
• As FedDev Ontario funding does not support ongoing operating costs, please indicate how your organization will sustain operations, programming, if applicable, and direct jobs created and/or maintained post-project.
• In question 42 , be sure to include how your organization remains financially sustainable both for the duration of the project and after project completion.

Please ensure the certification section is completed by the authorized contact, who is also the member of your organization with signing power/authority to enter into a legally binding agreement with FedDev Ontario. Please note:

• Certification is the act of signing a formal document to confirm that you are bound by its contents.
• Making a false statement or providing misleading information may result in the Minister exercising any remedy available to him/her at law.
• You must review each statement and sign the Certification, this includes certifying that the applicant is not engaged in any illegal or criminal activity, and does not promote violence, incite hatred or discriminate on the basis of sex, gender, identity or expression, sexual orientation, colour, race, ethnic or national origin, religion, age, or mental or physical disability, contrary to applicable laws.
• Checking 'I Agree' provides an authorized signature of your organization certifying both the information provided on the application and that you are duly authorized to submit the application on the organization's behalf.
• Funding for the purposes of the Project should not be knowingly used, either directly or indirectly, in a manner that breaches economic sanctions imposed by Canada as described under the Special Economic Measures Act . Information on Canadian sanctions and export and import controls can be found here: Canadian sanctions (international.gc.ca)

Confidentiality, Reporting, and Visibility Requirements

FedDev Ontario may consult external experts as part of the application assessment process (for example other government departments and agencies) and share applicant information with such experts. Any confidential or proprietary information should be marked as such. In addition, all information provided by the applicant is subject to the Access to Information Act and Privacy Act . If approved for funding, the names of recipients, amounts awarded, and project descriptions will be disclosed publicly. Recipients will also be required to submit reports and other statements that provide details on project performance, and comply with official languages and visibility and funding acknowledgement requirements in the contribution agreement.

FedDev Ontario reserves the right to modify these guidelines at any time without notice and may waive certain requirements on an exceptional basis.

Please be sure to attach all mandatory and other supporting documents to your application.

Mandatory documents include:

• Financial statements (interim/annual, balance sheets and other financial documentation) for the last 2 years. Financial statements with Audit or Review Engagement are preferred.
• Financial projections capturing the timing of project spending and revenue growth.
• Articles of incorporation/amendments or similar documents.
• Biographies of key management and technical staff required to complete the project and a diagram of the organizational structure.
• A work plan or project schedule that outlines major activities, milestones and detailed project budget (as already summarized in the Application for Funding).
• A breakdown of the types and numbers of jobs to be created or maintained immediately following project completion and 2 years post-project completion (as already summarized in the Application for Funding).
• Copies of letters of intent/support or similar documentation from partners, building permits or similar technical requirements identified/obtained, as already detailed in the Application for Funding.
• Additional information summarizing how the project contributes to one or more of the program priorities (if additional space is needed)

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The TGP program uses the same application form as other FedDev Ontario programs. Not all indicators listed in question 37 are relevant to the TGP, and there are five (5) specific indicators that may need to be added to your TGP application form that are not pre-populated in the table. Please find the definitions for these 5 program specific indicators below, and the definitions for the remaining indicators listed thereafter in the order they appear on the Application for Funding.

Indicators specific to the Tourism Growth Program

Use the + button to add any or all of the following program-specific indicators in the table for question 37, if they are applicable to your project.

Indicate if your project will maintain a partnership(s) with a business or organization that existed prior to the proposed project, but which would not have continued, our would have been unlikely to continue, if the project is not funded.

• Partnerships: Businesses or organizations contracted to perform a service or supply materials in support of the project.

Indicate if your project will maintain a collaboration(s) with groups or organizations that existed prior to the proposed project, but which would not have continued, or would have been unlikely to continue, if the project is not funded.

• Collaborations: Groups or organizations that contribute in cash or in-kind in support of the project.

Pre-populated indicators

Not all of the pre-populated indicators are relevant to the Tourism Growth Program. Select "No" if they are not applicable to your project or where the instructions below indicate.

• A job created refers to a job that did not exist prior to the project but was created as a direct result of the project activities. This applies to the period immediately following project completion as well as 2 years post-project completion.
• Maintained refers to employment that existed prior to the project but which would not have continued, or would have been unlikely to continue if the project had not been funded. This applies to the period immediately following project completion as well as 2 years post-project completion.

For reference, please review details in the above guide for Application for Funding questions 11-13 for details on how to calculate FTEs.

To supplement this information, please attach a list of the types (including permanent and temporary, management, technical, professional etc.) and the number of jobs that will be created or maintained immediately following project completion and 2 years post-project completion.

Eligible project costs must be reasonable, verifiable, incremental, and directly support project activities. Eligible project costs do not include ongoing costs of production or operations. Generally, the following are eligible cost categories:

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Funding will help build firefighter training centres in Ontario

THE BLUE MOUNTAINS, ONT. — Five new state-of-the-art training facilities will be built to train thousands of firefighters for in-demand careers, thanks to funding from the Ontario government.

Ontario is investing over $9 million to build five new training centres through the capital stream of the province’s Skills Development Fund. The new centres will have the capacity to train more than 28,000 firefighters over a five-year period.

In partnership with the Ontario Professional Fire Fighters Association, the province is also investing about $970,000 in a training project that will provide fire ground survival training to firefighters across the Niagara, Toronto and Kingston regions. The Town of Georgina will also receive provincial support to train and upskill its volunteer firefighters, a release indicates.

The funding will be allocated as follows:

• Town of Georgina:  $550,436 to support the construction of a new fire and rescue training facility. 
• Town of Orangeville:  $3,667,650 to support the construction of a new fire services campus to replace the existing building to train members. 
• Town of Newmarket:  $865,046 to support the construction of a new fire training facility in Aurora. 
• Municipality of Clarington:  $3,216,384 to support the construction of a new fire training complex to help meet the community’s emergency response needs and provide effective training for future leaders in the fire department. 
• Town of Hanover:  $780,331 to support the construction of a new fire hall to support local training of the Hanover Fire and Rescue. 
• Ontario Professional Fire Fighters Association Fire Ground Survival Train-the-Trainer Program: $970,150 to deliver fire ground survival training to career firefighters across the regions of Niagara, Toronto and Kingston. 
• Town of Georgina – Community Safety Skills Development for Georgina Fire and Rescue Services:  $439,373 to deliver training to its volunteer firefighters.

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Canada announcing funding to build the WAHA hospital

From: Indigenous Services Canada

News release

The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible of FedNor is announcing today an additional investment of $1.2 billion for the Weeneebayko Area Health Authority (WAHA) Hospital Redevelopment Project.

June 17, 2024 — Ottawa, Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ontario — Indigenous Services Canada

The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible of FedNor is announcing is announcing today an additional investment of $1.2 billion for the Weeneebayko Area Health Authority (WAHA) Hospital Redevelopment Project.

Funding towards the redevelopment project will serve the 12,000 people in the Weeneebayko region, providing them with fair access to quality healthcare services closer to home. This includes the construction of a new hospital facility, administrative offices, staff accommodations and a dedicated Ambulatory Care Centre on Moose Factory Island.

Canada is also accelerating investments to make health and safety improvements to the existing Weeneebayko General Hospital facility. As the redevelopment project progresses, this will ensure that patients in the Weeneebayko region have access to essential healthcare services, as close to home as possible.

This federal funding, which will be flowed through the Province of Ontario and WAHA, will ensure that Indigenous Peoples and patients in remote northern Ontario communities have the healthcare services they need now, and into the future.

Everyone in Canada deserves fair access to quality health care – regardless of who or where they are. This announcement is moving us closer to making this a reality for First Nations. It also represents a critical step on the path to reconciliation.

“We have been clear since the beginning that the Federal Government would be there to get this hospital built. This $1.2 billion announcement will help First Nations in Northern Ontario have fair access to quality healthcare. Thanks to the leadership of the Weeneebayko Area Health Authority, the 12,000 people in the Weeneebayko region will have the services they need closer to home." The Honourable Patty Hajdu Minister of Indigenous Services Canada

“We welcome the federal government's commitment to fund the completion of the Weeneebayko Area Health Authority (WAHA) Hospital. This marks a significant step forward in fulfilling a longstanding promise. However, the delay in prioritizing the health and well-being of First Nations highlights the urgent need for culturally informed care that upholds First Nations inherent and Treaty rights and our right to self-determination. Moving forward, we expect the government to continue fulfilling its commitments to First Nations by ensuring transformative change towards First Nations-led health care programs and services. This includes sustainable funding, increased capacity and improved healthcare facilities that are strengths-based and culturally informed.” National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak Assembly of First Nations (AFN)

“For far too long, First Nations people in the Weeneebayko area region have lacked access to quality health care, with the current hospital a stark reminder of the disparity in care and ongoing impacts of colonialism.  This investment from the Federal Government means that the Redevelopment Project is no longer in jeopardy, and we are taking a significant collective step to ensure that community members can get the services they need in a culturally responsive way, and closer to their loved ones. Earlier in May, I said that this project was an opportunity for the Prime Minister to right a wrong of the past, and I’m happy to see that the Redevelopment has finally been supported in full.” Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler Nishnawbe Aski Nation

“In the spirit of truth and reconciliation I am thankful and appreciate Canada in fulfilling their commitment to our new healthcare campus in Moosonee and ambulatory care center in Moose Factory. This is a pivotal step to ensuring the health, safety, and dignity of our First Nations communities. We look forward to working closely with Minister Hajdu and her team to bring this long overdue project to fruition." President and CEO Lynne Innes Weeneebayko Area Health Authority

Quick facts

Through Budget 2018, the Government of Canada committed to provide a contribution of $158.4 million to support the construction of the Weeneebayko Area Health Authority Hospital Redevelopment project to serve the health needs of remote and isolated James Bay communities.

Historically, the former hospital was used as a tuberculosis sanitorium and residents of this area were not provided adequate access to culturally safe and quality healthcare as a result of the long-standing impacts of colonialism.

Associated links

• Weeneebayko Area Health Authority
• Ontario Ministry of Health
• Weeneebayki Area Health Integration Framework Agreement (WAHIFA) (PDF)

For more information, media may contact:

Jennifer Kozelj Press Secretary Office of the Honourable Patty Hajdu Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor [email protected]

Media Relations Indigenous Services Canada 819-953-1160 [email protected]

Stay connected

Join the conversation about Indigenous Peoples in Canada:

X: @GCIndigenous Facebook: @GCIndigenous Instagram: @gcindigenous Facebook: @GCIndigenousHealth

You can subscribe to receive our news releases and speeches via RSS feeds. For more information or to subscribe, visit www.isc.gc.ca/RSS .

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Moderate to Above-Moderate Algal Bloom Predicted for Western Lake Erie in Summer 2024

Bloom severity forecast compared to previous years. The wide red bar is the likely range of severity based on the different models used and reflect uncertainty in the July total bioavailable phosphorus (TBP) load. A severity below 3 is the goal of the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement (GLWQA). Credit: NOAA NCCOS

NOAA and its research partners are forecasting that western Lake Erie will experience a moderate to larger-than-moderate harmful algal bloom this summer. This year’s bloom is expected to measure 5, with a potential range of 4.5 to 6. NOAA expects a start of the visible bloom in early July. The duration of the bloom depends on the frequency of wind events in September, which experts cannot predict this far in advance.

Lake Erie blooms consist of cyanobacteria, also called blue-green algae, capable of producing the liver toxin microcystin which poses a risk to human and wildlife health. Such blooms may result in higher costs for cities and local governments that need to treat drinking water; prevent people from enjoying fishing, swimming, boating, and visiting the shoreline; and harm the region’s vital summer tourism economy.

The severity index is based on a bloom’s biomass — the amount of algae— over a sustained period. Blooms over 5 on the severity index have substantive impacts, with noticeable areas of scum on the lake, and have larger areas and duration of impact. Blooms over 7.5 are the particularly severe blooms, with extensive scum formation and extensive coverage affecting the lake. A severity below 3 is the goal of the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement. The largest blooms occurred in 2011, with a severity index of 10, and 2015, at 10.5.

The size of a bloom is not necessarily an indication of how toxic it is. The toxins in a large bloom may not be as concentrated as in a smaller bloom.  NOAA is actively developing tools to detect and predict how toxic blooms will be.

The L ake Erie Harmful Algal Bloom Forecast website provides predictions and visualizations of where the bloom is located within the water column .  In addition to the early season projections from NOAA and its partners, NOAA also issues HAB nowcasts/forecasts during the bloom season. The nowcasts provide the current extent of the bloom while the forecasts provide a 5-day outlook of where the bloom will travel and what concentrations are likely to be seen, allowing local decision-makers to make informed management decisions.

Click here to subscribe to the Lake Erie HAB Forecast email updates. Click here to view the NOAA Press Release. 

Gulf of Mexico Dead Zone Larger than Predicted After Heavy June Rains

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News Release

Ontario Protecting Environment from Harmful Invasive Species

$16 million investment will help communities better manage this growing threat

June 20, 2024

Natural Resources

Table of Contents

Quick facts, additional resources, related topics.

YORK REGION —The Ontario government is investing $16 million over three years to protect the economy and environment from the threat of invasive species. The grant funding will help municipalities, conservation authorities and Indigenous communities help stop invasive species from establishing or spreading in the province.

“Invasive species are one of the main threats to biodiversity in Ontario and they also have a negative impact on our economy,” said Graydon Smith, Minister of Natural Resources. “This investment is the latest step our government is taking to protect Ontario’s critical industries as well as our natural environment to ensure we can continue to enjoy the natural beauty in our province.”

The funding will be administered by the Invasive Species Centre and Nature Conservancy of Canada to support a comprehensive, Ontario-wide plan to fight the invasive plant Phragmites, and for the Invasive Species Action Fund to provide grants to municipalities, conservation authorities and Indigenous communities to manage other harmful invasive species.

"Invasive species pose a serious threat to our environment and can have devastating impacts on community staples such as agriculture businesses and our parks and rivers,” said Dawn Gallagher, MPP, Newmarket-Aurora. “By funding organizations to manage and prevent the spread of these species, we are taking crucial steps to preserve the natural beauty and stability of Newmarket-Aurora for future generations."

In 2019, the Invasive Species Centre estimated that the potential impacts of invasive species to agricultural, fisheries, forestry, health care, tourism and the recreation industry may be as high as $3.6 billion per year in Ontario.

To further prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species in the province, Ontario recently added 10 new non-native species and four genera (groups of species) under the Invasive Species Act, 2015 and is renewing the Ontario Invasive Species Strategic Plan to ensure we have the most robust plan possible in place.

• Ontario invested $5 million in 2023-24 to support ongoing research, monitoring, and management of invasive species through programs and education across the province.
• The Invasive Species Act, 2015 currently lists 42 species, four groups, one family and two carriers. The Act provides legislative tools to prohibit and restrict certain invasive species, as well as carriers that facilitate the movement of invasive species.
• Ontario has the highest number of invasive species in Canada. Once established, invasive species can harm the natural environment and are extremely difficult and costly to control or eradicate.

"Invasive species have economic, environmental and social impacts on forests, lands and waters. This new investment will increase monitoring, early detection and rapid response to reduce the spread of invasive species. This investment will also support on-the-ground action projects led by community groups, Indigenous communities, municipalities and local partners to increase the management of invasive species across Ontario." - Sarah Rang Executive Director, Invasive Species Centre

"The Nature Conservancy of Canada celebrates the Government of Ontario’s investment in this important program to manage invasive species such as phragmites, in priority natural areas across the province. This initiative will support municipalities and partner organizations in taking a collaborative approach to protecting critical infrastructure, restoring sensitive habitats for species-at-risk, and ensuring a healthier environment for people in Ontario to enjoy." - Dana Kleniewski Vice President, Ontario, Nature Conservancy of Canada

"Emerging invasive species pose a real threat for York Region’s trees and woodlands. We continue to assess risks and impacts of concerning species like hemlock woolly adelgid, oak wilt and spotted lanternfly. Investments in managing invasive species in Ontario will support continued action, including a focus on prevention, early detection and coordinated approaches among all levels of government and other key stakeholders." - Wayne Emmerson Chairman and CEO, Regional Municipality of York

• Invasive Species Act, 2015
• Invasive species in Ontario
• Invasive Phragmites Control Fund
• Invasive Species Action Fund
• Boaters action plan on invasive species

Environment and Energy

Learn more about how Ontario protects and restores wildlife and the environment. Includes information on conservation and the electricity system. Learn more

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Information about the province’s Far North and rural communities. Get connected to business improvement organizations and learn more about funding and programs that support rural, northern and Indigenous communities. Learn more

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Melissa Candelaria Minister’s Office 647-448-7652 [email protected]

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