ontario tourism relief fund

Language selection

• Français fr

Government of Canada announces $68.5 million in relief support for southern Ontario tourism sector

From: Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario

News release

Investment will help over 1,300 tourism entities, including Indigenous tourism, recover, while creating and maintaining up to 4,200 jobs

April 6, 2022  – Ottawa, Ontario   

Tourism is essential to the vitality of local businesses and communities across southern Ontario, bringing millions of visitors to the region each year. Indigenous tourism offers unique opportunities for Indigenous cultural expression and preservation to be shared with visitors from around the world. The Government of Canada is continuing to support the tourism sector as Canada recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic and ensuring local tourism businesses have the tools they need to position themselves for a strong and resilient economic future.

Today, the Honourable Helena Jaczek, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario ( FedDev Ontario ) announced a total investment of $68.5 million through the Tourism Relief Fund for Indigenous Tourism Ontario and 11 Regional Tourism Organizations (RTOs) across southern Ontario. This investment will help tourism businesses and communities safely welcome back visitors, recover from the impacts of the pandemic and prepare for future growth.

With an investment of $3.5 million, Indigenous Tourism Ontario will provide non-repayable contributions of up to $100,000 to Indigenous businesses, not-for-profit organizations, Band Councils, and Indigenous communities to invest in new or enhanced tourism experiences, upgrade tourism assets, and attract domestic and international tourists. ITO will also deliver the Renew Indigenous Tourism program to support Indigenous organizations, businesses, and entrepreneurs as they work to recover from the pandemic. This investment will support up to 40 Indigenous projects to create and maintain up to 100 jobs.

As part of this investment, 11 RTOs across southern Ontario will also receive a combined investment of $65 million to distribute funding through non-repayable contributions of up to $100,000 to southern Ontario tourism-oriented businesses and organizations to innovate and invest in new and enhanced tourism experiences to attract visitors from within Canada and around the world. This investment will support up to 1,300 tourism entities and create or maintain up to 4,100 jobs. Please see the backgrounder for additional project details.

In total, this overall investment will support 1,340 tourism entities and create and maintain 4,200 jobs. More information on how to apply for support will be available on the ITO and eligible RTO’s websites shortly.

As well, the application portal for the Tourism Relief Fund remains open on the FedDev Ontario website and interested organizations are encouraged to apply online.

“The Government of Canada investment announced today will ensure small tourism businesses and organizations in southern Ontario are supported as they find new and innovative ways to attract visitors. The tourism sector is vital to communities and drives economic growth in local economies in southern Ontario and across Canada. Our government will continue to ensure the tourism sector has the tools it needs to recover so it is well-positioned for a strong and resilient economic future.” -  The Honourable Helena Jaczek, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario

“Our government is committed to supporting the tourism sector, including Indigenous communities and organizations, by providing opportunities for their success. This investment from FedDev Ontario will do just that—helping tourism operators to get the tools they need to bounce back and be well-positioned for the future. We are here for the tourism industry as we prepare to see the other side of this pandemic, and we continue to support tourism operators as they help our economy come back stronger.” -  The Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance

“Indigenous Tourism Ontario is extremely proud to be working very closely with the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario to directly support Indigenous tourism operators. We believe this type of mutually beneficial regional collaboration is what will lead to a renewed, rejuvenated and prosperous tourism recovery for all.” -  Kevin Eshkawkogan, President & CEO, Indigenous Tourism Ontario

“This opportunity to facilitate investment into tourism product and destination development will help accelerate the recovery of the tourism economy within Ontario’s southwest and across the province. The type of support being offered through the Tourism Relief Fund will allow stakeholders to make strategic investments resulting in long-term growth. We are looking forward to working with FedDev Ontario on this important program.” -S usan Judd, Board Chair, Southwest Ontario Tourism Corporation (RTO1)  

Quick facts

ITO is an Indigenous-led not-for-profit organization that provides business supports, training, marketing campaigns and branding to Indigenous-owned tourism operators as well as supporting experience development, including certification of authentic Indigenous experiences and Indigenous culinary tourism in tourism-dependent communities across Ontario.

RTOs are independent, not-for-profit organizations in Ontario that are responsible for tourism marketing, development and management at a regional level.

Today’s $68.5-million Government of Canada investment is pending successful completion of signed contribution agreements.

The tourism industry accounts for $39.4 billion of Ontario’s gross domestic product (GDP) and supports more than 820,000 jobs. Ontario also has the largest Indigenous tourism industry in Canada, contributing $622 million of gross domestic product, supporting nearly 13,000 jobs and over 550 Indigenous Tourism businesses.

The Government of Canada’s $500-million Tourism Relief Fund is helping tourism-oriented businesses and organizations recover from the pandemic and prepare for future growth, with a minimum of $50 million of the Fund allocated to supporting Indigenous-led tourism organizations. FedDev Ontario is delivering nearly $120 million of the Tourism Relief Fund across southern Ontario. 

Since November 2015, the Government of Canada, through FedDev Ontario, has invested over $82.5 million in over 200 tourism-related projects across southern Ontario, creating over 600 jobs and maintaining almost 4,720 jobs. FedDev Ontario has also invested $127.6 million in over 165 projects that have been led by an Indigenous business/organization or where Indigenous peoples are beneficiaries.  

Associated links

• Indigenous Tourism Ontario
• Southwest Ontario Tourism Corporation (RTO 1)
• The Tourism Partnership of Niagara (RTO 2)
• Hamilton Halton Brant Regional Tourism Association (RTO 3)
• Regional Tourism Organization 4 Inc. (RTO 4)
• Toronto Convention & Visitor Association (RTO 5)
• Central Counties Tourism (RTO 6)
• Regional Tourism Organization 7 (RTO 7)
• Regional Tourism Organization 8 (RTO 8)
• Region 9 Regional Tourism Organization (RTO 9)
• Ottawa Tourism and Convention Authority Inc. (RTO 10)
• Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization (RTO 11)
• Tourism Relief Fund (TRF)
• FedDev Ontario

Monica Granados Press Secretary Office of the Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario [email protected]

Media Relations FedDev Ontario [email protected]

Stay Connected

Website: www.FedDevOntario.gc.ca

Subscribe to our Southern Ontario Spotlight monthly newsletter and follow us on Twitter , Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn for more information on how we are growing businesses, cultivating partnerships and building strong communities in southern Ontario.

Page details

These companies got Ontario taxpayer money for tourism losses during pandemic

Premier doug ford’s government gave grants to nearly 600 businesses, including air canada, westjet, cineplex.

Social Sharing

Airlines, breweries and movie theatre chains were among the biggest recipients of $100 million in Ontario taxpayer funding designed to compensate the tourism industry for pandemic losses, CBC News has learned. 

Premier Doug Ford's government initially declined to name the companies that received funding through its Ontario Tourism Recovery Program, so CBC News obtained the list through a freedom of information request. 

The list reveals that the maximum grant of nearly $700,000 each went to Air Canada, WestJet and Porter Airlines, as well as a brewery, a winery and companies that own hotels but whose main business is construction or real estate.

• You can read the full list of companies at the bottom of this story

The Ford government had announced the fund in 2021 to provide grants to tourism businesses whose revenues plunged due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The program documents said the money was for "Ontario-based, tourism businesses in the for-profit attractions and accommodations sectors that have been hardest hit by COVID-19 … private sector tourism businesses that are significant drivers to their regional tourism economies." 

The grants totalling $99.5 million went to 571 companies, according to information released to CBC News through a freedom of information request to the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport.

The maximum grant was $695,000. That went to 55 companies, the bulk of them hotel operators, as well as airlines, transport companies, and the operators of high-profile tourism attractions, such as Canada's Wonderland and African Lion Safari. 

• Ontario won't make staycation tax credit permanent despite calls from industry

Some of the companies that received $695,000 each:  

• Amsterdam Brewing Corp. 
• Andrew Peller Ltd. 
• Cineplex Inc. 
• Gillin Engineering and Construction Ltd.
• Kingsett Real Estate Growth LP No 5. 
• Landmark Cinemas Holding Ltd. 
• Morguard Corp.

A spokesperson for Tourism Minister Neil Lumsden said businesses that offered visitor experiences, tours, information sessions and demonstrations were eligible for the funding. 

"The Ontario Tourism Recovery Program has significantly supported employers across Ontario with a proven track record of attracting visitors and generating tourist spending," said Lumsden's press secretary Alan Sakach in an email to CBC News. 

"This program was one of many supports to ensure tourism in Ontario continues to be a key driver for the province's economy," he said. 

Nearly half of the tourism recovery program's total funding went to the 68 companies that received grants of more than $500,000 each. Restaurants were not eligible to apply.

Sakach said the government provided more than $3 billion in supports for Ontario small businesses — including restaurants and the tourism sector — throughout the pandemic.

• Ontario's tourism sector won't fully recover from pandemic until 2025, report says

Christopher Bloore, president and CEO of the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario, said businesses were grateful that they could put the provincial money directly toward mitigating losses and covering operational costs, something they could not do with the federal tourism relief fund . 

However, the pace of the funding was an issue. "There was frustration at how slowly the money came out to the front line," said Bloore in an interview.

The government created the fund as part of its March 2021 budget, opened applications in October of that year and gave businesses a deadline of November to apply. 

Although government officials said that the money would start flowing within weeks of the application deadline, CBC News revealed that none of the grants had been paid by late March of 2022. That was more than two years after the pandemic hit Ontario and businesses were first forced to shut down. 

Tourism companies began receiving the provincial payments last April.

Grape Escape Wine Tours was among them, getting $80,000 from the fund over two instalments. One of its co-owners, Richard Mell, said in an interview that the timing felt a bit late. 

• None of the $100M promised to Ontario tourism businesses has been delivered

"Earlier would have helped to avoid certain loans that we had to take," Mell said. "Earlier would have been nice, and obviously a little bit more money would have been nice too." 

Grape Escape has offered wine tours in and around Niagara-on-the-Lake for the past 15 years, both in vehicles and on bicycles. The business took a big hit during the lockdowns of spring and early summer of 2020, said Mell. 

"It's been playing catch up ever since," he said. "When we were allowed to open with capacity limits, we were filling up to those limits, but not to our regular capacity that we would usually see."

While Mell said he doesn't begrudge public money going to large corporations such as the airlines, he said he would have preferred the government to focus this funding on smaller tourism operators and deal with big businesses in a different way. 

More than 70 per cent of the businesses that received grants were given $100,000 or less.  

Here is the full list of companies that received grants from Ontario's Tourism Recovery Program. The list was obtained by CBC News through a freedom of information request.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Senior reporter

Mike Crawley covers provincial affairs in Ontario for CBC News. He began his career as a newspaper reporter in B.C., filed stories from 19 countries in Africa as a freelance journalist, then joined the CBC in 2005. Mike was born and raised in Saint John, N.B.

• Follow Mike Crawley on Twitter

Related Stories

• Unclaimed workers' benefit money fuels $44M growth in N.B. budget surplus
• Tourism minister faces more questions on deputy's spending
• CBRM company expects 'fierce competition' to build solar-power gardens under new program
• Former senior BlackBerry employee accuses company's CEO of sexual harassment in lawsuit
• Provincial neglect risking infrastructure collapse, eastern Ontario mayors warn

Chargement...

News Release

Ontario Supports the Tourism and Hospitality Sectors during COVID-19

2021 Budget Commits $200 Million to Help Stabilize Tourism Industry and Protect Jobs

March 29, 2021

Office of the Premier

Table of Contents

Quick facts, additional resources, related topics.

NIAGARA FALLS — The Ontario government is providing an estimated $100 million for a new one-time Ontario Tourism and Hospitality Small Business Support Grant and $100 million for a new one-time recovery program.

This significant investment is part of the 2021 Budget,  Ontario's Action Plan: Protecting People's Health & Our Economy , and will support the province's tourism industry as it recovers from the impacts of COVID-19. Total support from the Ontario government for the tourism, culture, sports, recreation, and heritage industries since the start of the pandemic now totals $625 million.

Details were provided today by Premier Doug Ford, Lisa MacLeod, Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries, Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister of Finance and President of the Treasury Board.

"The tourism industry is critical to Ontario's economy and we are providing significant financial support to ensure this sector will be able to survive the pandemic and contribute to our recovery," said Premier Ford. "These tourism operators and businesses employ local people throughout the province and typically attract visitors from around the world. Our government will continue to have their backs during this difficult time."

Prior to the pandemic, tourism generated more than $36 billion in economic activity and supported approximately 400,000 jobs in Ontario. As a direct result of the pandemic, the tourism sector has lost more than $18 billion in revenue alone and more than 200,000 jobs.

The Ontario Tourism and Hospitality Small Business Support Grant will provide an estimated $100 million in one-time payments of $10,000 to $20,000 to eligible small businesses including hotels, motels, travel agencies, amusement and water parks, hunting and fishing camps, and recreational and vacation camps including children's overnight summer camps. Businesses must demonstrate they have experienced a minimum 20 per cent revenue decline and have less than 100 employees to qualify. Any small businesses that received the Ontario Small Business Support Grant will not be eligible for this new grant.

"This has been the most challenging year the tourism industry has ever faced. Previously an economic powerhouse for the province, tourism has been hit by the triple threat that COVID-19 represents - a health, economic and social crisis," said Minister MacLeod. "This critical funding will sustain regionally significant businesses, while protecting jobs in communities that rely on tourism investment."

The Ontario Tourism Recovery Program will protect critical jobs in communities across the province and sustain for-profit tourism businesses, which have had to fully or partially shut down during the pandemic. The program will launch later this year and support tourism businesses across the province as they adjust operations to reopen safely and focus on the domestic market during the ongoing crisis. The program will support businesses as they innovate, adapt and create new tourism offerings and experiences to attract visitors from around the world when it is safe to do so.

The Ontario Tourism Recovery Program will support established and proven tourism businesses that have been hit hardest by COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. These are key employers and tourism generators in all regions of the province, including the North. Examples of eligible businesses could include resorts, tour boat operators, amusement and water parks, northern lodges and other tourist attractions.

"People in the tourism, hospitality, culture, sports, and recreation industries have been particularly hard hit by the necessary public health restrictions," said Minister Bethlenfalvy. "To protect jobs in these industries, our recent Budget invested an additional $400 million, bringing our total support to more than $625 million since the pandemic began. With these additional measures, we will ensure that Ontario remains a terrific place to discover."

Healthy people are essential for a healthy economy. With vaccines being distributed, hope is on the horizon.  Ontario's Action Plan: Protecting People's Health and Our Economy  provides the resources necessary to finish the battle with COVID-19, building on the government's record investments to protect health and jobs during the global pandemic.

• Ontario’s Tourism Economic Recovery Ministerial Task Force will also provide advice on how best to support the recovery and growth of the tourism sector.
• The government is also supporting non-profit tourism organizations through the $105-million Community Building Fund – to help them recover from the impacts of the pandemic.
• The government is committed to providing Ontario residents with support of up to 20 per cent for eligible Ontario tourism expenses to encourage them to safely rediscover Ontario. The province has set aside $150 million for this initiative.
• Tourism plays a critical role in the Ontario economy. Prior to the pandemic, tourism generated more than $36 billion in economic activity and supported approximately 400,000 jobs in Ontario.
• As announced in the 2021 Budget, Ontario is also committing $1.3 million in targeted support for resource‐based tourism businesses that have been impacted by the COVID‐19 pandemic.
• The 2021 Budget: Ontario’s Action Plan: Protecting People’s Health and Our Economy , brings total investments to $16.3 billion to protect people’s health and $23.3 billion to protect our economy. Ontario’s COVID-19 action plan support now totals $51 billion.

"Niagara is the crown jewel of Ontario's tourism and hospitality treasure, and has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. The supports laid out in Ontario's 2021 budget show the government's commitment to helping this sector get through this challenging time and recover stronger than ever. From direct financial supports, to encouraging consumers and visitors to experience our region when safe, and the Tourism Tax Credit, Budget 2021 heavily invests in Niagara's local economy and key sectors. This budget is good news for operators and workers alike." - Sam Oosterhoff MPP for Niagara West

• Read the 2021 Budget: Ontario’s Action Plan: Protecting People’s Health and Our Economy
• Visit Ontario’s website to learn more about how the province continues to protect Ontarians from COVID-19.

Business and Economy

Information about Ontario’s economy and how to do business here. Includes economic development opportunities, research funding, tax credits for business and the Ontario Budget. Learn more

Learn about the government services available to you and how government works. Learn more

Jobs and Employment

We’ve got the resource and supports to help connect job seekers with employers. Learn more

Travel and Recreation

Learn more about hunting and fishing, provincial parks, festivals and events, and visiting Ontario. Learn more

Media Contacts

Ivana Yelich

Premier's Office

[email protected]

Dakota Brasier

Minister’s Office

[email protected]

Denelle Balfour

Communications Branch

[email protected]

• about Ontario
• accessibility
• terms of use

© Queen's Printer for Ontario, 2021

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

Tourism Relief Fund - RTO5

Thank you to all those who applied., read the media releases for the full list of applicants below:, 117 toronto businesses receive over $9.5m in tourism recovery support, mississauga businesses receive over $900,000 in tourism recovery support.

Bramptom release still to come.

The Tourism Relief Fund is a program of the Government of Canada that supports businesses by enabling them to invest in expanding and enhancing visitor products and services. Administered by the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), the program is designed to help businesses and destinations recover from the deep challenges of the pandemic and build toward future, sustained growth. 

In the regional destination encompassing the cities of Toronto, Mississauga and Brampton, the TRF is being delivered by Destination Toronto in its capacity as Regional Tourism Organization 5, in close partnership with Mississauga Tourism, the City of Brampton and the City of Toronto. 

This guide sets out the details of the program for potential applicants. Eligible applicants can apply for a non-repayable contribution between $20,000 and $100,000 for up to 50% of eligible project costs for incorporated for-profit businesses and up to 100% of eligible project costs for not-for-profit organizations and municipalities. Costs may be eligible on a retroactive basis for up to 12 months prior to the receipt of a project application, but no earlier than April 19, 2021. Without exception, all projects must be completed by, and all project expenses incurred no later than December 31, 2022.

All fully completed applications received via our online portal on or before Sunday, May 22, 2022 at 11:59pm ET will be considered for TRF funding.

Please check the eligibility criteria prior to applying. We look forward to receiving your application. 

Program Overview

The RTO5 Tourism Relief Fund , a Government of Canada investment delivered by the  Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), has been created to support tourism businesses and organizations to adapt their operations, facilitate growth, and position Southern Ontario to be a destination of choice for both domestic and international visitors. Tourism businesses and organizations within the municipalities of Toronto, Mississauga, and Brampton that want to enhance the experience they offer to visitors in the region have until May 22, 2022 to apply.

Eligible applicants can apply for a non-repayable contribution between $20,000 and $100,000 for up to 50% of eligible project costs for incorporated for-profit businesses and up to 100% of eligible project costs for not-for-profit organizations and municipalities. Costs may be eligible on a retroactive basis for up to 12 months prior to the receipt of a project application, but no earlier than April 19, 2021. All projects must be completed by, and all project expenses incurred no later than December 31, 2022.

The Live Group Informational Webinars are now complete.  If you missed the webinars, you can watch a 30 minute recording  here and / or review the RTO5 Tourism Relief Fund slide presentation here .

Program Criteria

Eligible Applicants

Not-for-profit incorporated organizations (including tourism associations and destination management organizations)

Incorporated businesses, primarily small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)

Post secondary institutions

Indigenous/First Nation/Métis owned businesses and organizations

Ineligible Applicants

Businesses that are in the following industries are not eligible for participation in this program:

Restaurants and restaurant chains

Hotel chains

Partnerships

Sole proprietors*

Retail sector businesses

*Indigenous sole proprietors are eligible*

Note 1: Independent businesses operating in the restaurant, hotel and retail sector may be considered for funding if they are an anchor product and the main reason for attracting visitors to the region. This will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Note 2: If you are an eligible applicant whose operations reside outside of the RTO5 region, applications for the Tourism Relief Fund are available in your region. To check which regional office is accepting applications on your behalf, see  TourismRelief.ca .

The municipalities of Toronto, Mississauga and Brampton  (RTO5) are proud to work in partnership with Indigenous Tourism Ontario (ITO) to deliver the Tourism Relief Fund in support of Indigenous tourism in the province of Ontario. 

If your business or organization is 51% or more Indigenous-owned and controlled, please visit ITO's Tourism Relief Fund webpage to apply and access additional program support. As the recognized voice for Indigenous tourism in Ontario, ITO's program is customized to the needs of Indigenous communities, organizations and businesses. ITO and RTO5 will work together to support the growth of Indigenous tourism in the region. 

For questions, contact [email protected]

The program seeks to enable ultimate recipients to strategically adapt projects and services to adjust to changing public health requirements, while planning for and investing in recovery efforts for future growth. It will also empower tourism entities to seize new market opportunities while helping the visitor economy sector reposition itself for both domestic and international visitors as the country safely reopens. 

Specific objectives are: 

Supporting those costs related to product development and enhancement of the visitor experience to help tourism businesses adapt to the 'new normal', modernize tourism offerings, and encourage the adoption of more environmentally sustainable practices; and

Supporting destination development so that it positions our region to take advantage of post-pandemic opportunities through strategic planning for medium to long-term investments, as well as supporting destination development in line with objectives set out in the Federal Tourism Growth Strategy and projected into the RTO5 regional priorities.

Federal Government Priorities for the Tourism Relief Fund:

As the Tourism Relief Fund in funded by the federal government, priority consideration will be given in the scoring evaluation to those applications with projects that address one or more of the following federal priorities:

Support the Indigenous tourism sector

Are led by a business/organization of strategic importance to the tourism sector in the region

Contribute to the economic development of a region

Contribute to job creation in the region

Take place in a tourism-dependent community/region, including projects supporting downtown cores

Are led or majority-led by persons of underrepresented groups: women, Indigenous peoples, members of Official Language Minority Communities (OLMC), youth, persons with disabilities, newcomers and immigrants, black communities, racialized communities, and LGBTQ2

RTO5 Regional Priorities for the Tourism Relief Fund:

Priority consideration will be given in the scoring evaluation to those applications with projects that address one or more of the following regional priorities:

Support the underrepresented stories and experiences in our communities, including Indigenous and equity-deserving communities;

Support the sector’s small businesses;

Expand destination appeal and experiences that have the potential to drive growth in visitation in the winter season;

Facilitate workforce development and promote the employment for youth and newcomers in the sector;

Facilitate the recovery of business travel (both group and transient);

Advance accessibility of tourism and hospitality businesses;

Augment environmental sustainability;

Support businesses and neighbourhoods also adversely affected by long-term infrastructure work and construction;

Elevate destination appeal through Placemaking and public art.

Qualifying projects could include:

Creating, adapting, and enhancing protocols and permanent infrastructure to meet health and safety requirements to accommodate visitors;

Modernizing operations, attractions, greening initiatives, and online sales services;

Developing capacity for more inclusive tourism experiences  to ensure welcoming, inclusive environments to diverse clientele, ;

developing sustainable community tourism plans based on research and market analysis, and designed to rebuild tourism confidence in communities;

Supporting seasonal dispersion by equipping tourism SMEs to extend their product offering to increase visitation during the winter and shoulder seasons;

Implementation of tourism plans that create or improve local assets, facilities, and planning for key infrastructure;

Developing and enhancing tourism services and experiences; and,

Implementing strategies to re-activate and animate downtown cores, main streets and business districts through activities, public art, and mixed-use spaces.

By way of example only, ineligible project costs include, but are not limited to, the following:

Costs of land, building or vehicle purchase;

Refinancing;

Costs of intangible assets such as goodwill, whether capitalized or expensed;

Depreciation or amortization expenses;

Interest on invested capital, bonds, debentures, or mortgages;

Bond discount;

Losses on investments, bad debts and any other debts;

Fines or penalties;

Costs related to litigation;

Non-incremental wages;

Fees for administrators, including payments to any member or officer of the Recipient’s Board of Directors;

Opportunity costs;

Hospitality and entertainment costs;

Costs of individual membership in a professional body (e.g. professional designations);

Lobbyist fees and

Note: No expenses incurred prior to April 19, 2021 will be accepted.

April 22, 2022. RTO5’s Tourism Relief Fund online application, funding criteria guide and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) are live and applications are being accepted.

Consider registering for 1 of 2 Group Information Webinar Sessions to learn about the RTO5’s Tourism Relief Fund and to ask questions in a group setting:

April 27, 2022 at 9:30AM  Group Session 1 

May 2, 2022 at 12:00PM  Group Session 2

NOTE: The Live Group Informational Webinars are now complete.  If you missed the webinars, you can watch a 30 minute recording  here and / or review the RTO5 Tourism Relief Fund slide presentation here .

From April 27 to May 20, 2022 applicants are encouraged to book a 25-minute call with one of our in-house Business Liaisons to seek answers to any questions related to either the program criteria and/or the application process. If you are interested, we encourage you to book your virtual call at your earliest convenience  by sending a short email to: [email protected] .

NOTE: Participating in either the webinar or talking 1:1 with one of our Business Liaisons concerning your application is optional and does not affect the evaluation or decision process.  

May 22, 2022 at 11:59PM .  Application portal closes. No further applications to the RTO5 Tourism Relief Fund will be accepted after this time.

December 31, 2022.   All projects to be completed by December 31, 2022, and all project expenses incurred no later than this date.   

The Live Group Informational Webinars are now complete. If you missed the webinars, you can watch a 30 minute recording  here and / or review the RTO5 Tourism Relief Fund slide presentation here .

Applicants are encouraged to book a 25-minute call with one of our in-house Business Liaisons to seek answers to any questions related to either the program criteria and/or the application process. If you are interested, we encourage you to book your virtual call at your earliest convenience by sending a short email to: [email protected] .

What if I’ve already applied to the Tourism Relief Fund through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario)?

You can only make one application per organization to the Tourism Relief Fund.  

Can a business/organization submit multiple applications?

No. Only one application per business/organization is allowed to ensure as many applicants as possible are able to take advantage of the RTO5 Tourism Relief Fund throughout the entire duration of the  program, even if you applied last year and were unsuccessful.

When will I know if our application was successful?

Applicants can expect to be notified starting mid-June if their application was successful. All applicants - successful and unsuccessful - will receive a communication to inform them of the decision.

Our main operating company is a limited partnership, but we do have a general partner that is an incorporated company that owns the partnership. Do we submit the application under the general partner incorporation number? 

While the limited partnership would be connected to the project, the applicant would be the Incorporated company. 

Can I submit a paper-based application rather than through the online application portal? No.  Only applications submitted electronically will be considered. If you are having difficulty, one of our RTO5 Business Liaison Specialists listed below would be happy to assist you.

NEW FAQ’s added May 5, 2022

I can’t afford to do this project unless I am successful in my application for funds. What should I do? 

We recommend that you do not expend any funds prior to your project being accepted and you are able to meet any conditions to be outlined in your Contribution Agreement. Note that all applicants will be advised of their approval or decline status by mid-June with first payments in July advancing 65% of your approved funds.  

I’ve been wanting to expand my facility for a long time – could I do that through this fund?

Funding is intended for projects that meet the spirit of the guidelines and applications for the RTO5 Tourism Relief Fund as determined by FedDev Ontario. Please review the applications and guidelines to determine if your project is eligible and contact your  RTO5 Business Liaison Officer at [email protected] with any residual questions.  

I have multiple projects that I have done (or am interested in doing) – can I submit more than one application? 

No. Applicants are allowed to submit one application only. We recommend you combine your projects into an umbrella project with multiple components and outline each clearly in your project description.

Would we be eligible as a registered charity? 

If the registered charity is an Incorporated Not-For-Profit, you would be eligible.

As an artist/musician or specific tourism festival/event management company, am I eligible for this fund?

As an individual artist or musician, no.   Although not specifically listed, in some instances the above may be eligible if individuals or entities are incorporated as a business that meets all other eligibility criteria.

What is a “key supplier or operator in the visitor experience”? 

For the purposes of this program, a “key supplier or operator in the visitor experience” is defined as one that provides the infrastructure and services necessary to support a tourism economy, connects tourism products to potential markets, leads planning for sustainable destination development and supports capacity building/skill development in the sector. In general terms, it would be generally accepted and easily proven that your organization is a tourism-leading organization that positively impacts the  regional visitor economy by building destination development.

I am seeking more than $100,000, can I still apply for the FedDev Regional Tourism Relief Fund?

No. RTO5 Regional Tourism Relief Fund is capped at $100,000 per application. If you are seeking funding over $100,000 in contribution,  you must apply directly on the FedDev Ontario website. We can make introductions for you.  When applying to FedDev Ontario for larger gifts, be aware that funding conditions and timing of approvals are different from the modified RTO5 Tourism Relief Fund. FedDev Ontario’s program information can be found here . 

If my project was started last year and is finished, can I still apply for funding? 

Yes,  IF your project meets the eligibility criteria as outlined in the application guide and your eligible project expenses started on or after April 19, 2021. Eligible expenses dated after April 19th, 2021, can be remitted providing support documentation is included as part of the financial report. More information on disbursements will be provided when your application is approved and terms of funding approval provided.

What is an N.A.I.C.S. code and where do I find out what my code is? 

The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) is the standard used by federal statistical agencies in classifying business establishments for the purpose of collecting, analyzing, and publishing statistical data related to the business economy. Click https://www23.statcan.gc.ca/imdb/p3VD.pl?Function=getVD&TVD=1181553  to determine your N.A.I.C.S. code. 

I am receiving/have received other COVID-19 related government funding to support my project. Can I still apply to TRF?

Yes. but as long as the other government funding received for your TRF project is not from FedDev Ontario. You are able to make use of other government funding sources towards the specified activities contained in your funding application . However, any of these sourced  funds cannot overlap with TRF eligible expenses. (i.e. you cannot ‘double dip’). All applications are vetted for source of funds and, unfortunately, any violations in relation to this criteria will result in automatic cancellation of your application and FedDev Ontario may require your business to pay back any awarded and spent TRF funds and take further action as required.

What are the “applicable government laws, rules, regulations, guidelines and other legally binding measures (Laws)” that the Applicants must be in full compliance with?

In plain terms, all applicants confirm in their funding request that they operate “above board” in all matters, operate in accordance with municipal by-laws, provincial and federal laws, and that they are respectful of regulations and best practice guidelines in their industry and the visitor economy.  

I would like to use TRF funding to cover marketing expenses. Is that permitted/eligible? 

Marketing and promotional expenses beyond 20% of the whole project plan are typically not eligible for any TRF funding to purchase capital equipment and digitization costs are fully eligible. It would be rare to award any marketing dollars as eligible expenses. Any  exceptions would be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. 

I am not familiar enough with financial statements, can you assist me?

Yes, as part of your application you are required to submit the following mandatory documentation as an attachment:

Historical financial statements for the last two fiscal years either in the form of an Audit, Review Engagement or Notice to Reader. Note: audited or reviewed statements are preferred. Internally-prepared financial statements may be accepted. At a minimum, this should include a balance sheet, income statement (including a breakdown of costs), and statement of cash flow; and

Incorporation documents, and/or Partnership Agreement, Letters Patent or other relevant documentation.

If we notice that applications submitted without these documents,you will be contacted to forward these before final assessment. will delay the assessment of your project’s merit.

Can I add more attachments to my application?                                                                                                              

Yes, other attachments are permitted as supporting information. They must be relevant to the project and complement answers provided in the Application for Funding. These may include a project plan, detailed budgets, copies of relevant permits/licenses, evidence of support from the community, supplier quotes, and other relevant documents.

Can you tell me more about financial statements?

Financial statements are written records that convey the business activities and the financial performance of an organization. Financial statements are often audited by government agencies, accountants, firms, etc. to ensure accuracy and for tax, financing, or investing purposes. Financial statements include balance sheets and income statements.

It is a mandatory requirement under the TRF that applicants provide internal or external financial statements for the last two full fiscal years. The glossary below can be used to support applicants in providing this information.

Annex – Glossary of terms: financial statements

Complete an Application

Applications will be accepted until May 22nd, 2022 at 11:59PM. Want to know what questions are on the application before applying? Read the Updated Application Guide here .

Ready to apply? Use this application checklist to ensure you've completed everything. 

Important Note: 

The fillable online application is a Google Forms document. Only Google Gmail users will be able to start, stop and save the application and then return to the application later without losing any data entered.  

Non-Google Gmail users will be unable to save the document at any time prior to submission. Any data entered on the application will not be saved if you close the application prior to submission.  We recommend either:

1. Using your Gmail address (or opting in for creating a Gmail address) for the application submission, OR

2. Print off the PDF version of the Application Worksheet so you can review all questions, write your answer content offline at your own convenience, and then complete our online application via copying and pasting your longer text responses directly on the Google Forms application form when you know that you can complete the application uninterrupted.

Download the application guide

Helpful resources, watch 30 min recording of live webinar, review the rto5 tourism relief fund presentation deck, email us to schedule a 1-on-1 consultation with a business liaison officer.

• Become A Member
• Partnerships
• Member Testimonials
• Media Coverage
• News & Articles
• Subscribe to TIAO
• IMPACT Regional Ontario
• Building Inclusive Tourism
• Forward Motion
• Living Wage Week Workforce Sustainability Series
• Industry Event Calendar
• Funding & Grants
• Sustainable Tourism
• Accessible Tourism
• Tourism Skillsnet Ontario
• Tourism & Hospitality Emergency Recovery
• Francophone Tourism Operator Resources
• Tourism Workforce Sustainability Program
• Take the Sustainable Tourism 2030 Pledge
• Elevating Ontario Experiences
• A Three Fires Collaborative Quest
• DiscoverAbility Network
• 2024 Ontario Tourism Summit
• 2023 Ontario Tourism Award Winners

Government of Canada Launches Tourism Relief Fund

The Government of Canada has launched the Tourism Relief Fund, to be delivered through FedDev and FedNor Ontario. The Tourism Relief Fund supports tourism businesses and organizations to adapt their operations to meet public health requirements while investing in products and services to facilitate their future growth. This fund has a $500 million budget (ending March 31, 2023) and will focus on product development and destination development. The fund will empower businesses to create or enhance tourism experiences and products to attract visitors and to help the sector provide the best Canadian tourism experiences. 

Contributions to businesses will be either non-repayable contributions up to $100,000 for up to 50% of eligible costs OR fully repayable contributions up to $500,000 for up to 75% of eligible costs. 

The fund will offer a minimum of $50 million to support Indigenous tourism initiatives and $15 million will be dedicated to national initiatives that support the advancement of national tourism priorities. Eligible applicants include tourism entities that cater mainly to visitors, such including businesses, not-for-profit organizations, and band councils or other Indigenous organizations and cooperatives.  

To be considered eligible for this fund, applicants must meet at least one of the following criteria: 

• Be a key supplier or operator in the visitor experience; 
• Be part of a defined tourism cluster or a tourism dependent community, including supporting downtown cores; or 
• Provide an anchor product or service in a tourism destination. 

For more information on eligibility and how to apply, please consult the  Tourism Relief Fund – Application guide - FedDev Ontario   or  Tourism Relief Fund - FedNor

•  Facebook
•  LinkedIn

Regional Tourism Relief Fund

In the spring of 2022 Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization (OHTO) received $3.37 million through the Government of Canada's Tourism Relief Fund, delivered by the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), to help local tourism organizations and businesses safely welcome back visitors, recover from the impacts of the pandemic, create jobs and prepare for future growth.

With this funding, OHTO directly supported 61 tourism for-profit businesses, not-for-profit organizations, and municipalities in Ontario's Highlands.

OHTO aims to foster a tourism industry community, one where industry members can rely on one another and promote a mutual agenda: to create the very best, most successful, competitive and vibrant tourism region in Ontario. These success stories highlight this community and the incredible people that champion it with their passion and leadership.

More Success Stories

From observation towers to environmental upgrades, read about how Ontario’s Highlands tourism operators and initiators have stepped up to the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic with the support of this program.

It’s full steam ahead for Railway Museum thanks to regional funding program

Pursuing tourism excellence: Carleton Place lays foundation for destination development with support from RTRF program

How Ontario’s tourism relief funding opened the doors for outdoor dining for one Bancroft Café

Treehouses aren’t just for kids: Haliburton Highlands business builds treehouse resort thanks to OHTO funding

Ottawa Valley business community steps up: The heartwarming story behind Whitewater Sno-Goers club’s new warming shack

Sir Sam's Ski/Ride: a new look at the bottom and at the top

RTRF Program support helps Silver Springs Cottage Resort renovate for the post-pandemic era

Making the old new again: Somewhere Inn Calabogie uses regional tourism relief funding to revamp accommodation

About the regional tourism relief fund - ontario's highlands.

In October 2022, Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization (OHTO) announced support for 61 tourism businesses and organizations in Ontario’s Highlands to recover from the pandemic and prepare for future growth. Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization received $3.67 million through the Government of Canada’s Tourism Relief Fund, delivered by the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), to help local tourism organizations and businesses safely welcome back visitors, recover from the impacts of the pandemic, create jobs and prepare for future growth.

For information on all projects receiving supports, please see the backgrounder .

About FedDev Ontario

For 13 years, the Government of Canada, through FedDev Ontario , has worked to advance and diversify the southern Ontario economy through funding opportunities and business services that support innovation, growth and job creation in Canada’s most populous region. The Agency has delivered impressive results, which can be seen in southern Ontario businesses that are creating innovative technologies, improving productivity, growing revenues, creating jobs, and in the economic advancement of communities across the region. Learn more about the impacts the Agency is having in southern Ontario by exploring our pivotal projects , our Southern Ontario Spotlight , and FedDev Ontario’s Twitter , Facebook , Instagram , and LinkedIn .

Media and Press about the RTRF - Ontario's Highlands

How Ontario’s tourism relief funding opened the doors for outdoor dining for one Bancroft cafe

Video series showcases success of regional tourism relief fund in Ontario’s Highlands

Palmer Rapids business making kayaking accessible

OHTO Announces Support for Tourism Recovery in Ontario's Highlands

​ohto announces support for tourism recovery in ontario's highlands.

Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization (OHTO) delivers over $3.6 million to 61 businesses and organizations, with support from the Government of Canada's Tourism Relief Fund, to attract visitors and support future growth. (la version française suivra.)

Beachburg, ON (October 12th, 2022) – Today, Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization (OHTO) announced support for 61 tourism businesses and organizations in Ontario's Highlands to recover from the pandemic and prepare for future growth.

Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization received $3.67 million through the Government of Canada's Tourism Relief Fund, delivered by the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario  (FedDev Ontario), to help local tourism organizations and businesses safely welcome back visitors, recover from the impacts of the pandemic, create jobs and prepare for future growth.

This includes, PuppetsUp! , who is receiving $75,000 to add additional programming to the festival after a six-year hiatus. The PuppetsUp! welcomed back crowds of visitors to the streets of Almonte. Attendees were delighted by daily parades, street performers and local and international puppet theatre performances.

Please see the backgrounder for information on all projects receiving support.

"The Government of Canada's $78-million investment through the Tourism Relief Fund is helping communities across southern Ontario. With this funding, southern Ontario's Regional Tourism Organizations and Indigenous Tourism Ontario are providing hundreds of local businesses and organizations with the support they need to create jobs, attract more visitors and grow local economies, now and into the future.”     - The Honorable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic          Development Agency for Southern Ontario

“The Canadian tourism sector continues to be one of the most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. We will work with businesses and organizations through these challenging times, ensuring they get support to innovate in their products and services as well as to grow and thrive, all while keeping safety as the top priority. The Tourism Relief Fund helps businesses adapt to welcome back guests safely. It also feeds into a broader strategy to help the sector recover from the pandemic and build an economy that works for everyone. The Canadian economy will not fully recover until our tourism sector recovers”    - The Honorable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance

“We are extremely grateful to be working alongside FedDev Ontario to deliver this much-needed funding to our tourism industry. We are a region full of resilient and innovative operators and organizations who care deeply about their communities. This funding support enables them to provide elevated experiences to visitors and re-ignite the spirit of our region.”    - Nicole Whiting, Executive Director, Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization

“Puppets Up! Has a long history of bringing tourists to Almonte, and the benefit is felt all across Mississippi Mills and, indeed, across all of Lanark County. This funding will help us expand our reach and really showcase everything that this corner of Eastern Ontario has to offer.”    - Jane Torrance, Executive Director, Puppets Up!

Quick Facts

• OHTO is moving towards developing the region through the lens of responsible tourism – focusing on the pillars of inclusivity, community alignment and sustainability.
• In 2021 OHTO delivered $1.2 million to 93 businesses and organizations through the TRIP – Capital Projects funded by FedDev Ontario to help these operators offer a safer visitor experience.
• The Puppets Up! International Puppet Festival takes place in August, in historic downtown Almonte, which is part of Mississippi Mills in Lanark County.
• Puppets Up! features 13 performers and troupes from across Canada and around the world, providing 65 performances of world-class puppet artistry and family-friendly entertainment.
• The Government of Canada's $306-million investment in OHTO is part of an over $78-million investment for ITO and RTOs in southern Ontario. 
• The Government of Canada’s  $500-million Tourism Relief Fund  is helping tourism-oriented businesses and organizations recover from the pandemic and prepare for future growth. FedDev Ontario is delivering nearly $120 million of the  Tourism Relief Fund  across southern Ontario.

Associated Links

• Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization  (OHTO)
• FedDev Ontario
• Tourism Relief Fund (TRF)

Joe Boughner Public Affairs Coordinator Puppets Up! [email protected]

Kate Evans Industry Partnerships and Funding Coordinator Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization [email protected]   Edward Hutchinson Press Secretary Office of the Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario [email protected]

About PuppetsUp! From 2005 until 2016, the PuppetsUp! International Festival brought some of the best and most innovative puppetry from around the world to the streets of Almonte. Puppets Up! was started by a group of fun people in Almonte (inspired and led by Noreen Young, the visionary puppet creator behind “Hi Diddle Day” and “Under The Umbrella Tree”) who wanted to entertain and inform people about the varied and vibrant art of puppetry, something common to virtually all cultures. During its initial run, the festival drew crowds from across the country and around the world to see puppeteers and street formers perform in intimate theatres and against the backdrop of Almonte’s historic main street. 2022 marks the return of this beloved festival, with a mix of well-established puppet performers and some up and coming talent from across Canada and around the world.

About OHTO Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization (OHTO) is a not-for-profit organization mandated and funded by the province of Ontario to support tourism within the counties of Haliburton, Lanark, and Renfrew and portions of Frontenac, Hastings, and Lennox and Addington. OHTO’s mandate is to build and support a competitive tourism region, known as Ontario’s Highlands, through marketing, funding opportunities, education and product development. OHTO functions in partnership with established and recognized tourism organizations, municipalities and entities within the region to move forward in a spirit of cooperation and collaboration. Learn more at www.ohto.ca  .

About FedDev Ontario For 13 years, the Government of Canada, through FedDev Ontario , has worked to advance and diversify the southern Ontario economy through funding opportunities and business services that support innovation, growth and job creation in Canada’s most populous region. The Agency has delivered impressive results, which can be seen in southern Ontario businesses that are creating innovative technologies, improving productivity, growing revenues, creating jobs, and in the economic advancement of communities across the region. Learn more about the impacts the Agency is having in southern Ontario by exploring our pivotal projects , our Southern Ontario Spotlight , and FedDev Ontario’s Twitter , Facebook , Instagram , and LinkedIn .

Communiqué de presse

L'organisation touristique des hautes-terres de l'ontario (ohto) annonce du soutien pour la relance du tourisme dans la région des hautes-terres de l'ontario.

L’organisation touristique des Hautes-terres de l’Ontario (OHTO) assure la prestation de 3,67 millions de dollars à 61 d’entreprises et d’organismes, grâce au soutien du Fonds d’aide au tourisme du gouvernement du Canada, afin d’attirer des visiteurs et de soutenir la croissance future. Le 12 octobre 2022, Beachburg (Ontario)    Aujourd’hui, l’organisation touristique des Hautes-terres de l’Ontario (OHTO) a annoncé un soutien pour 61 entreprises et organisations touristiques de la région des Hautes-terres de l’Ontario afin qu’elles se remettent de la pandémie et se préparent à la croissance future. L’organisation touristique des Hautes-terres de l’Ontario (OHTO) a reçu 3,67 millions de dollars au titre du Fonds d’aide au tourisme du gouvernement du Canada, mis en œuvre par l’ Agence fédérale de développement économique pour le Sud de l’Ontario (FedDev Ontario), pour aider les entreprises et les organisations touristiques locales à accueillir à nouveau les visiteurs en toute sécurité, à se remettre des répercussions de la pandémie, à créer des emplois et à se préparer à la croissance future. Il s'agit notamment du festival PuppetsUp! qui reçoit 75 000 dollars pour ajouter une programmation supplémentaire au festival après une interruption de six ans. Le festival PuppetsUp ! a accueilli de nouveau des foules de visiteurs dans les rues d'Almonte. Les spectateurs ont été enchantés par les défilés quotidiens, les artistes de rue et les spectacles de théâtre de marionnettes locaux et internationaux Veuillez consulter le document d’information   pour obtenir des renseignements sur tous les projets qui reçoivent un soutien.   Citations  « L’investissement de 78 millions de dollars du gouvernement du Canada au titre du Fonds d’aide au tourisme appuie les collectivités du Sud de l’Ontario. Grâce à ce financement, les organisations touristiques régionales du Sud de l’Ontario et Indigenous Tourism Ontario fournissent à des centaines d’entreprises et d’organisations locales l’appui dont elles ont besoin pour créer des emplois, attirer plus de visiteurs et contribuer à développer les économies locales, aujourd’hui et à l’avenir. »    -    L’honorable Filomena Tassi, ministre responsable de l’Agence fédérale de développement économique pour le Sud de l’Ontario « Le secteur canadien du tourisme continue d’être l’un des plus touchés par la pandémie de la COVID‑19. Nous travaillerons avec les entreprises et les organisations en ces temps difficiles, en veillant à ce qu’elles obtiennent le soutien nécessaire pour développer des produits et services novateurs, ainsi que pour grandir et prospérer, tout en gardant la sécurité comme priorité absolue. Le Fonds d’aide au tourisme aide les entreprises à s’adapter pour accueillir de nouveau les visiteurs en toute sécurité. Il s’inscrit également dans une plus vaste stratégie qui vise à aider le secteur à se remettre de la pandémie et à bâtir une économie qui fonctionne pour tous. L’économie canadienne ne se rétablira pas complètement tant que notre secteur touristique ne sera pas rétabli.  »    -     L’honorable Randy Boissonnault, ministre du Tourisme et ministre associé des Finances « Nous sommes extrêmement reconnaissants de collaborer avec FedDev Ontario pour accorder ce financement indispensable à notre industrie touristique. Notre région regorge d'exploitants et d'organismes résilients et novateurs qui ont à cœur le bien-être de leur communauté. Ce soutien financier leur permet d'offrir des expériences de haut niveau aux visiteurs et de raviver l'esprit de notre région. »    -     Nicole Whiting, Directrice exécutive, Organisation touristique des Hautes-terres          de l'Ontario (OHTO) « Le festival Puppets Up! attire depuis longtemps des touristes à Almonte et les bénéfices se font sentir dans tout Mississippi Mills et, de fait, dans tout le comté de Lanark ! Ce financement nous aidera à accroître notre portée et à vraiment mettre en valeur tout ce que ce coin de l'Est de l'Ontario a à offrir ! »    -    Jane Torrance, Directrice exécutive, Puppets Up! Fait en bref

• L'organisation touristique des Hautes-terres de l'Ontario (OHTO) s'emploie à développer la région dans l'optique d'un tourisme responsable, en se concentrant sur les piliers de l'inclusion, de l'alignement sur la communauté et de la durabilité.
• En 2021, l'OHTO a versé 1,2 million de dollars à 93 entreprises et organisations dans le cadre du programme TRIP - Projets d'immobilisations financé par FedDev Ontario pour aider ces exploitants à offrir une expérience plus sûre aux visiteurs.
• Le festival international de marionnettes Puppets Up! a lieu en août, dans le centre-ville historique d'Almonte, qui fait partie de Mississippi Mills dans le comté de Lanark.
• Puppets Up! présente 13 artistes et troupes de tout le Canada et du monde entier, offrant 65 représentations de marionnettes de classe mondiale et de divertissement familial.
• L’investissement du gouvernement du Canada de 3,67 millions de dollars pour l’OHTO fait partie d’un investissement de plus de 78 millions de dollars pour ITO et les OTR du Sud de l’Ontario.
• Le Fonds d’aide au tourisme du gouvernement du Canada, d’une valeur de 500 millions de dollars , aide les entreprises et les organisations axées sur le tourisme à se remettre de la pandémie et à se préparer à une croissance future. FedDev Ontario distribue près de 120 millions de dollars au titre du Fonds d’aide au tourisme dans le Sud de l’Ontario.

Liens connexes  

• Organisation touristique des Hautes-terres de l'Ontario (OHTO)
• PuppetsUp! 
• Fonds d’aide au tourisme (FAT)

Personnes-ressources Joe Boughner Coordonnateur des relations publiques Puppets Up! [email protected] Kate Evans Coordonnatrice des partenariats avec l'industrie et des programmes de financement Organisation touristique des Hautes-terres de'l Ontario (OHTO) [email protected]   Edward Hutchinson Attaché de presse Cabinet de la ministre responsable de l’Agence fédérale de développement économique pour le Sud de l’Ontario [email protected] À propos de PuppetsUp! De 2005 à 2016, le festival international PuppetsUp! a présenté dans les rues d'Almonte des spectacles de marionnettes parmi les meilleurs et les plus innovants au monde. Puppets Up ! a été lancé par un groupe de personnes enthousiastes d'Almonte (inspirées et dirigées par Noreen Young, la créatrice de marionnettes visionnaire à l'origine de "Hi Diddle Day" et "Under The Umbrella Tree") qui souhaitaient divertir et informer le public sur l'art varié et dynamique des marionnettes, un art commun à pratiquement toutes les cultures. Au cours de sa première édition, le festival a attiré des foules de tout le pays et du monde entier pour voir se produire des marionnettistes et des artistes de rue dans des théâtres intimes et sur la toile de fond de la rue principale historique d'Almonte. L'année 2022 marque le retour de ce festival bien-aimé, avec un mélange de marionnettistes bien établis et de jeunes talents de tout le Canada et du monde entier. À propos de l’Organisation touristique des Hautes-terres de l'Ontario (OHTO) L’Organisation touristique des Hautes-terres de l'Ontario (OHTO) est un organisme à but non lucratif mandaté et financé par la province de l'Ontario pour soutenir le tourisme dans les comtés de Haliburton, Lanark et Renfrew et certaines parties de Frontenac, Hastings, Lennox et Addington. Le mandat de l'OHTO est de bâtir et de soutenir une région touristique compétitive, connue sous le nom de Hautes-terres de l'Ontario, par le biais du marketing, des possibilités de financement, de la formation et du développement de produits. L'OHTO fonctionne en partenariat avec des organisations touristiques, des municipalités et des entités établies et reconnues dans la région afin de progresser dans un esprit de coopération et de collaboration. Pour en savoir plus, consultez le site www.ohto.ca (disponible en anglais seulement). À propos de FedDev Ontario Depuis 13 ans, le gouvernement du Canada, par l’intermédiaire de FedDev Ontario , s’emploie à développer et à diversifier l’économie du Sud de l’Ontario en offrant des possibilités de financement et des services aux entreprises qui favorisent l’innovation, la croissance et la création d’emplois dans la région la plus peuplée du Canada. L’Agence a obtenu des résultats impressionnants, comme en témoignent les entreprises du Sud de l’Ontario qui créent des technologies novatrices, améliorent leur productivité, augmentent leurs revenus, créent des emplois et le développement économique des collectivités de la région. Apprenez-en plus sur l’incidence de l’Agence dans le Sud de l’Ontario en explorant nos projets majeurs , notre bulletin L’actualité économique du Sud de l’Ontario et les comptes Twitter , Facebook , Instagram et LinkedIn de FedDev Ontario.

• News, Stories & Events
• Programs & Resources
• Become a Member
• Connect With Us

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

Tourism Relief Fund Open for Applications

 The Tourism Relief Fund is now closed - Updated July 2023

Tourism Relief Fund applications through Regional Tourism Organization 5 (RTO5) are now open for businesses in Toronto, Mississauga and Brampton. 

The Tourism Relief Fund, first announced by the Government of Canada in April 2021, supports tourism businesses and organizations in adapting operations and meeting changing public health requirements, while providing an opportunity to invest in new products and services that can help make businesses more accessible for more customers. Under the leadership of FedDev Ontario, the fund is now available to businesses throughout southern Ontario. There are strict eligibility requirements and some business sectors such as hotels, restaurants, and retail are ineligible for this particular program. 

A total pool of $10 million is available to tourism businesses in Toronto, Mississauga, and Brampton. Destination Toronto is administering the program in its capacity as Regional Tourism Organization 5 (RTO5), working in close partnership with the City of Toronto, Tourism Mississauga, and the City of Brampton Tourism Office, on behalf of FedDev Ontario.

You can learn more about eligibility and the application process, and begin an application, by visiting the dedicated portal for the Tourism Relief Fund in our region:  rto5.com . 

To support businesses and help them navigate the application process, a webinar 12:00 pm on May 2, 2022 will provide an overview of the process and eligibility, including an opportunity to ask questions. You can find more information or register for the webinar here .

In addition, businesses can schedule a call with a TRF Business Liaison. The links and information are all available at  rto5.com . 

Destination Toronto

Toronto’s visitor economy is a vital economic engine for the city, generating more than $10 billion in economic activity and supporting 70,000 jobs in 2019. Destination Toronto’s mandate is to reflect the breadth and diversity of Toronto’s people, places and culture to inspire residents and visitors to meet, visit and explore our city. Operating in partnership with the City of Toronto, the Greater Toronto Hotel Association and the Ontario Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries, Destination Toronto markets and promotes the city to global travellers, attracts and supports major meetings and events, and supports local businesses to maximize the opportunities of visitor spending. 

• BOD/Staff Login
• Newsletter Sign Up

Home / RTO 9 – Tourism Relief Fund

RTO 9 – Tourism Relief Fund

On April 6, Region 9 Regional Tourism Organization (RTO9) received a non-repayable contribution of $3 million from the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), to deliver the Tourism Relief Fund to tourism businesses in South Eastern Ontario.

Support is available for small businesses in the tourism sector to recover from the impacts of the pandemic and seize new market opportunities through enhanced or new products and services.

RTO9 will be administering non-repayable financial support ranging from $5,000 to $100,000. For-profit businesses in South Eastern Ontario can apply for non-repayable contributions of up to $100,000 for up to 50% of eligible project costs and not-for-profit organizations can apply for non-repayable contributions of up to $100,000 for 100% of eligible costs.

The Tourism Relief Fund is made possible by the Government of Canada and the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (The Funders) and administered by Regional Tourism Organization 9 (RTO). This fund is being made available to; SMEs* Incorporated Private Sector Tourism Businesses, Indigenous Tourism Businesses, and Incorporated Not-For-Profits that service tourists on a regular basis. This program is to assist in the recovery of the tourism industry within Tourism Region 9 as defined by the Province of Ontario – South Eastern Ontario . All expenditures must be made for upgrades to facilities, services, or enhanced sustainability programming that will benefit the visiting tourist and/or tourism employees. *SMEs – Small / Medium Enterprises that have fewer than 500 employees.

RTO 9 is proud to work in partnership with Indigenous Tourism Ontario (ITO) to deliver the Tourism Relief Fund in support of Indigenous tourism in the province of Ontario. 

If your business or organization is 51% or more Indigenous-owned and controlled, please visit ITO’s Tourism Relief Fund webpage to apply and access additional program support. As the recognized voice for Indigenous tourism in Ontario, ITO’s program is customized to the needs of Indigenous communities, organizations, and businesses. Together, ITO and RTO 9 will collaborate to support the growth of Indigenous tourism in the South Eastern Ontario region. 

For questions, contact [email protected]

Please note the intake period for applications is April 12th, 2022 to May 15 th, 2022 at 4 pm. Please contact Katherine Hobbs – Project Manager – [email protected] , prior to submitting to ensure eligibility of your proposed application.

Questions & Answers

Business Information

London, Ont., southwestern Ontario receive $4.5 million tourism investment

The City of London, local municipalities and businesses are the recipients of a $4.5 million investment from the federal government designed to revitalize tourism and economic growth across the region.

According to a release, Arielle Kayabaga, MP for London West, on behalf of Filomena Tassi, the minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) announced a $4.5 million investment for 22 projects in London and across southwestern Ontario.

These investments are part of the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) and the Tourism Relief Fund (TRF), and the funds will help support “community infrastructure enhancements, tourism recovery and economic development in the region.”

“Investments in tourism and community spaces are not only vital for economic growth, but they also strengthen the social fabric of a community and preserve its unique identity for future generations to enjoy. Today’s investment in community infrastructure and tourism in London and southwestern Ontario will have a lasting impact on our local communities,” said Kayabaga.

Friday’s announcement was made at the Greek Canadian Community Centre of London and Vicinity, which received more $300,000 to improve the outdoor recreational fields and its greenspace, as well as make roof repairs.

In addition, Kustermans Adventure Farms also received more than $70,000 to create a new winter farm festival for visitors, such as campfires, Christmas tree education, adventure zones, snowman bowling and more.

“Enhancing public spaces like the Greek Canadian Community Centre and developing local attractions like Kustermans Adventure Farms brings more visitors to our communities,” said Tassi. “Offering new and unique experiences showcases all that our towns and cities have to offer, encourages people to shop locally and contributes to a strong economy. Our government supports growing communities across Ontario.”

Other fund recipients include the Delaware Speedway, the Municipality of Central Elgin, the Town of Tillsonburg, Wishbone Brewing Company Ltd. and the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority.

In total, the Tourism Relief Fund is worth $500 million, nearly $120 million of which is dedicated to projects across southern Ontario, while the Canada Community Revitalization Fund is also investing $500 million, $139 million of which is also for projects in southern Ontario.

For a full list of tourism fund recipients, you can scroll through the photo gallery below. 

London Top Stories

'I felt like the wildebeest in National Geographic': Cyclist recounts wild dog attack

Benzene levels 424 times acceptable levels: Aamjiwnaang First Nation

Three people in hospital following crash east of London, Ont.

Fatal crash in South-West Oxford Township

Clean up outside derelict building doesn’t quell concerns about trespassing and fire risk

Progressive Conservatives hold seat in Lambton-Kent-Middlesex byelection

Witness testifies about being sexually assaulted by others as well as parents

A wet end to the week in the London region

Ctvnews.ca top stories.

Police arrest 3 Indian nationals in killing of B.C. Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar

Three people have been arrested and charged in the killing of B.C. Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar – as authorities continue investigating potential connections to the Indian government.

Five areas Canada's foreign interference commissioner says needs more investigation

Commissioner Marie-Josee Hogue released her interim report examining foreign election interference on Friday. Here are five elements of the issue that Hogue says she needs to further probe before she can make conclusions or recommendations.

Police officer hit by driver of fleeing vehicle in Toronto

York Regional Police say they are continuing to search for a suspect in an auto theft investigation who was captured on video running over a police officer in Toronto last month.

Why your airfare may be getting more expensive

Skyrocketing airfare prices are linked to heightened competition and rising food and fuel, according to the CAA.

TD worst-case scenario more likely after drug money laundering allegations: analyst

TD Bank Group could be hit with more severe penalties than previously expected, says a banking analyst after a report that the investigation it faces in the U.S. is tied to laundering illicit fentanyl profits.

New weight-loss drug Wegovy not a 'magic bullet,' doctor warns

As Wegovy becomes available to Canadians starting Monday, a medical expert is cautioning patients wanting to use the drug to lose weight that no medication is a ''magic bullet,' and the new medication is meant particularly for people who meet certain criteria related to obesity and weight.

Drew Carey is never quitting 'The Price Is Right'

Drew Carey took over as host of 'The Price Is Right' and hopes he’s there for life. 'I'm not going anywhere,' he told 'Entertainment Tonight' of the job he took over from longtime host Bob Barker in 2007.

Funeral today for broadcasting legend and voice of 'Hockey Night in Canada' Bob Cole

A funeral is being held today for hockey broadcasting legend Bob Cole in his hometown of St. John's, N.L.

Foreign meddling 'did not affect' overall federal election results: inquiry report

Foreign interference by China did not affect the overall results of the 2019 and 2021 general elections won by Justin Trudeau's Liberals, a federal commission of inquiry has found.

Shopping Trends

The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop.  Read about us.

Editor's Picks

13 blackout curtains for anyone who needs complete darkness to fall asleep, 17 practical things for your backyard that you'll want to order immediately, 16 night creams that'll work magic on your skin while you sleep, 17 problem-solving dog products that cost less than $30, 17 backyard decor and furniture pieces you need before summer arrives, if you love reading, i'm fairly certain you'll want to order at least one of these bookworm-approved products, 20 last-minute mother's day gifts from amazon canada that'll arrive on time, 22 of the best mother's day gifts to give in 2024, 17 unique mother's day gifts your mom definitely wants, but probably won’t buy herself, 15 hydrating facial toners that reviewers actually swear by, here are the best retinol serums and treatments you can snag under $50, according to reviewers, 20 affordable amazon beauty and skincare products you'll probably repurchase over and over again.

WRDSB to lay off 106 elementary school teachers

More than 100 teachers at the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) are learning they have been declared surplus will likely be out of a job as of Aug. 12.

Brantford, Ont. woman, charged again with falsely soliciting pregnancy support, back in court

Kaitlyn Braun, the Brantford, Ont. woman who previously admitted to deceiving doulas and is facing similar charges again, is not seeking bail at this time, her lawyer said Friday.

Livestock killed in farm fire near Elmira

Thick grey smoke billowed over Elmira Friday morning as first responders raced to the scene of a large farm fire on Allemang Place.

Two people exchange gunfire in Leamington parking lot

Essex County OPP investigators are asking for help in identifying an individual involved in a shooting incident in a Leamington parking lot.

Police warn of scammers pretending to represent E.L.K. Energy

Essex County OPP officers are warning residents about scam calls circulating in the Town of Essex.

80-year-old Ont. man to face jury in historical sexual assault case involving children

A trial date has been set for an Ontario senior facing allegations of historical sexual offences involving children.

30 firefighters battle blaze at Bracebridge facility

On Thursday night, 30 firefighters battled a destructive fire that broke out in a facility in Bracebridge Ont.

Allegedly armed suspects sought after failed home invasion

Police are investigating a failed home invasion involving two armed suspects in the area of Bathurst Street and Mulock Drive in Newmarket.

Northern Ontario

Northern Ont. man guilty of three counts of first-degree murder in Sudbury firebombing

The jury deciding the fate of a man responsible for a fatal firebombing in Sudbury found him guilty of three counts of first-degree murder on Friday afternoon.

New Hamburg, Ont. family can't get truck's faulty transmission fixed due to aftermarket attachment

A New Hamburg family is feeling deflated after buying a new Toyota hybrid truck.

Almost $17K in fines for illegal hunting, fishing in northern Ont.

Three men from southern Ontario and a man from Texas have been fined a total of $16,700 for illegal hunting and fishing in September 2021.

Two Ontario nurses help deliver baby during a flight to Dubai

Two registered nurses from Ottawa and Kingston have been an integral part in the delivery of a baby on board a flight heading to Dubai.

Sexual assault suspect sought by Ottawa police

The Ottawa Police Service is asking the public for help in identifying a suspect allegedly involved with a sexual assault that happened at a home on Albert Street three months ago.

CTV Morning Live launches podcast starting this week

A new CTV Morning Live Podcast is launching this week. The first episode is available now on the iHeartRadio app, featuring some of the best CTV Morning Live’s segments. This includes news, lifestyle segments and some fun.

Video shows suspect setting Toronto-area barbershop on fire

Video of a suspect lighting a Richmond Hill barbershop on fire earlier this week has been released by police.

Two baby bald eagles born in Toronto

Two baby bald eagles have hatched in Toronto, just weeks after a bald eagle nest was spotted in the city for the first time ever.

Premier Legault reiterates that McGill pro-Palestinian camp must be dismantled

Quebec Premier François Legault reiterated that the pro-Palestinian encampment at McGill University must be dismantled while police remain 'on the lookout for new developments.'

Judge worries amendment to Quebec language law will cause 'undue delays' for English trials

A Quebec judge overseeing the trial of a person accused of killing a cyclist with their car has raised concerns that an amendment to the province's language charter could cause 'undue delays' for trials held in English.

'Congratulations': Celine Dion praises Montreal DJ for new mashup featuring her vocals

Quebec singing legend Celine Dion has praised a Montreal DJ for creating a mashup featuring one of her songs with U.K. producer Majestic.

Officers seize 28kg of elvers at N.S. holding facility

Fishery officers seized nearly 30 kilograms of elvers at a Yarmouth County, N.S., holding facility on Wednesday, arresting three people in the process.

New Brunswick town's mayor defends policy that prohibits Pride banners on lampposts

A New Brunswick mayor is defending her town's new policy that will prohibit Pride banners from being displayed on lampposts in the community -- a move a local LGBTQ group says sends a harmful message.

Councillor Pam Lovelace says she's running for Halifax mayor

Halifax city councillor Pam Lovelace has announced she is running for mayor.

LIVE AT 4 PM | Winnipeg police to speak on arrest involving possession of explosive substances

Winnipeg police will share details about the arrests of two people possessing explosive substances Friday afternoon.

New Red Dress Alert system to be developed in Manitoba

A new pilot program which will notify the public of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, two-spirit and gender-diverse people is set to be implemented in Manitoba.

Manitoba man sentenced to house arrest for keeping fishing tournament funds meant for Children's Hospital Foundation

A Manitoba man who pleaded guilty to keeping the funds raised from an ice-fishing fundraiser for the Children's Hospital Foundation of Manitoba has been handed a sentence of 18 months house arrest.

Okotoks resident charged in shooting of 53-year-old man

An Okotoks resident has been charged in relation to a shooting Wednesday at a residence in Sheep River Court.

Calgary halal stores closed by AHS can now reopen

Uninspected meat found at several halal food stores and grocers in Calgary has been destroyed and the affected facilities have been cleared to open.

Twin Alberta Ballet dancers retire after 15 years with company

Alberta Ballet's double-bill production of 'Der Wolf' and 'The Rite of Spring' marks not only its final show of the season, but the last production for twin sisters Alexandra and Jennifer Gibson.

Manslaughter charge pending after January apartment fire in Queen Alexandra

A man who was previously charged with arson in connection with an apartment fire earlier this year will be charged with manslaughter.

Video of Michelle Hadwen before her death in 2009 released by Edmonton police

More than 15 years after the death of Michelle Hadwen, police are still searching for the person responsible for her death.

Feds announce $21M for Boyle Street's King Thunderbird Centre

The federal government will invest $21 million into the King Thunderbird Centre.

California man gets 27 months in Canadian prison for attempting to smuggle 'ghost gun' over the border

A California man has been sentenced to 27 months in prison for attempting to smuggle a ghost gun across the Canadian border last year, authorities announced Friday.

Hacker breaches B.C. libraries and demands ransom after taking emails, phone numbers

B.C. libraries have been targeted by a hacker who demanded a ransom or they would release user data that includes the phone numbers and email addresses of some clients.

Stay Connected

• Newsletter Sign Up

Board of Directors

Sub regional partners, marketing opportunities, marketing results, digital assets, partnership funding, experience and product development opportunities, tourism relief fund, workshops and training, hhb regional industry exchange, corporate e-newsletters, southern ontario tourism conference, regional tourism award recognition program, 2024-2026 strategic plan, consumer market development, business to business, marketplace sales initiatives, training resources, hhbrta resources, trends research and data reports, presentations and recordings, brand and logo assets.