Local festival organizers should apply for new grants says local MPP

Ontario launches ‘Celebrate Ontario 2019’

Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound MPP Bill Walker says Ontario’s Government for the People is boosting local tourism and economic growth by investing in festivals and events through the Celebrate Ontario 2019 program.

The program is now open for applications from festivals and event organizers of all sizes to attract tourists, create jobs and support the local economy. 

“Tourism is an important economic driver in my riding. Programs like Celebrate Ontario help attract visitors and increase opportunities in community economic development and business partnerships,” says MPP Walker who also serves as Minister of Government and Consumer Services. “I encourage all local festival and event organizers to apply.” 

To help reduce red tape and the administrative burden on our many community partners and organizations, Ontario has streamlined the application process to make it easier for organizers to apply for funding.

 “Festivals and events drive tourism, support tens of thousands of jobs in Ontario and generate millions of dollars in revenue. They are made even better with the support of Celebrate Ontario, which enhances the tourist experience, and gives everyone a great reason to discover Ontario,” said Michael Tibollo, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport.

“As we develop Ontario’s new tourism strategy, we look forward to receiving feedback on how we can strengthen this vital sector and bring visitors back again and again,”  continued Minister Tibollo.

The deadline to apply for Celebrate Ontario 2019 is January 9, 2019.