180 projects supported to enhance recreational facilities, parks and trails to attract visitors to region
In southwestern Ontario, tourism attractions and destinations like wineries, the lakefront and national parks, play a vital role in the region's economy and cultural identity, promoting the unique heritage and natural beauty of the region. The Government of Canada understands the importance of the tourism sector and is committed to supporting communities as they build towards a strong future from coast to coast to coast.
During Economic Development Week, we are highlighting the important investments that have been made across Ontario to support the tourism industry. Between 2022 and 2023, the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) delivered nearly $140 million through the Tourism Relief Fund (TRF) to help tourism-oriented businesses and organizations across southern Ontario recover from the impacts of the pandemic and safely welcome back visitors.
As part of this investment, more than $18.4 million was delivered to 180 tourism businesses and organizations in southwestern Ontario, providing memorable experiences for visitors and positioning the region for success.
For example, Caldwell First Nation received a contribution of $500,000 to revitalize its Indigenous-owned marina in Leamington on Lake Erie, 3 kms from Point Pelee National Park. The marina is a hub for sport fishing, community events, canoe excursions into Sturgeon Creek and adventures onto the adjacent conservation boardwalk. The project supported the expansion of the marina, creating an enhanced fishing and tourism destination for visitors looking to connect with nature and learn about the cultural significance of local flora and fauna.
TRF support also made a difference in the community of Bright, where Udderly Ridiculous, a local goat farm and tourism destination, was able to enhance the visitor experience to the farm with renovations to its facilities, upgrading its heating and cooling systems, and creating new outdoor dining areas.
Also with this Government of Canada support, Southwest Ontario Tourism Corporation (RTO 1) provided non-repayable contributions of up to $100,000 to tourism businesses and organizations in the region.
This included $100,000 for the Essex County Black Historical Research Society to reanimate Windsor's downtown core through the creation of interactive public art and murals that share the story of Windsor's African-Canadian history. As part of this project, the organization also worked in partnership with Bird Canada and WindsorEats to coordinate a series of scooter and bike tourism arts and culture experiences along the McDougall Street Corridor, to attract visitors with inclusive, equitable and diverse public spaces.
These investments have been crucial in helping local businesses and organizations welcome more visitors and build stronger, more vibrant communities.
