Entrepreneurs and innovators in Canada’s tourism and hospitality sector are receiving support through governmental funding and recognition for their economic and cultural impact. 

The federal government announced $727,500 in funding to help four organizations build, enhance and preserve tourism offerings in the Thompson Okanagan, British Columbia. The funding comes from the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan). According to the Government of Canada, “tourism business owners, operators and entrepreneurs have ambitious plans and PacifiCan is here to support those ambitions.”

Similarly, the City of Guelph awarded $86,300 sourced from the Municipal Accommodation Tax to dozens of organizations in the city’s events and tourism sector. Recipients ranged from the Guelph Jazz Festival and the Royal City Brewing Company to Guelph Urbex Walking Tours. Says executive director of Destination Marketing Guelph, Hilary McCann, “we were thrilled to be able to support enhancements to long-time and loved Guelph events. We were also able to provide funding for new initiatives spearheaded by businesses and community organizations.”

Also in Ontario, the AMPLIFY Norfolk program received an Ontario Tourism Award of Excellence from the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario. AMPLIFY Norfolk provides not-for-profit organizations with grants to produce new live entertainment events in Norfolk County. Not only do these events boost tourism, but as noted by Mayor Amy Martin, “this award is a testament to Norfolk County’s dedication to fostering economic recovery and cultural growth through innovative live entertainment.”