Over 300 projects supported to enhance recreational facilities, parks and trails to attract visitors to region
In the Greater Toronto Area, tourism attractions and destinations like festivals, museums, galleries and the waterfront 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 $40 million was delivered to 310 tourism businesses and organizations in the Greater Toronto Area, providing memorable experiences for visitors and positioning the region for success.
For example, the Beaches International Jazz Festival received $100,000 to enhance the visitor experience at its popular two-week music festival in Toronto. With this support, organizers were able to produce a new event, ROCKFEST, which attracted thousands of visitors to the area.
TRF support also made a difference in the community of Mississauga, where the Muslim Womenpreneurs Network received more than $95,000 to deliver the Ramadan Expo 2023 at the International Centre. With this support, the Ramadan Expo featured over 200 businesses, showcasing various products and services, live performances, a kids' zone and virtual reality experiences.
Also as part of this Government of Canada support, Toronto Convention & Visitor Association (RTO 5) and Central Counties Tourism (RTO 6) provided non-repayable contributions of up to $100,000 to tourism businesses and organizations in the region.
This included support for the Township of Brock, which received $100,000 from RTO 6 to develop a permanent tourism website, secure the designation as the Small Mouth Bass Fishing Capital of Canada, create an accessible pathway to its waterfront and beautify its downtown for visitors.
These investments have been crucial in helping local businesses and organizations welcome more visitors and build stronger, more vibrant communities.
