--- title: External Funding date: 2025-10-01T10:57:00-04:00 author: admin canonical_url: "https://www.rto9.ca/partnerships-funding/external-funding/" section: Pages --- # External Funding To support tourism development, community initiatives, and business growth in South Eastern Ontario. - ![Destination Canada Fundica](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/Events/2025/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/google.jpg) ### Destination Canada Fundica Destination Canada has engaged Fundica to provide tourism organizations, businesses and communities with a free and easy way to find government and private sector funding in Canada aimed to scale investment in Canada’s tourism industry. [Learn More](https://dd.destinationcanada.fundica.com/signup) - ![Grants Ontario](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/cash.png) ### Grants Ontario Grants Ontario is a central resource for funding offered by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture & Gaming and other provincial ministries and agencies. It provides one-window access to program details, application steps, and tools to track your submission. [Learn more](https://www.ontario.ca/page/available-funding-opportunities-ontario-government) - ![Funding Opportunities for the Tourism Sector](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/External-Funding/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/application-2.jpg) ### Funding Opportunities for the Tourism Sector There are several funding and grant opportunities available to support tourism businesses across Ontario. Below is a round-up of current programs you can apply for, curated by the team at the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario. [Learn more](https://www.tiaontario.ca/cpages/funding-grants) - ![Ontario Trillium Foundation](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/External-Funding/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/trillium.jpg) ### Ontario Trillium Foundation The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is a provincial agency and one of Canada’s largest granting foundations. Each year, it awards over $110 million to nonprofit and charitable organizations through a range of programs designed to support diverse community needs. [Learn more](https://www.otf.ca/) - ![Regional Development Program](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/john-schnobrich-FlPc9_VocJ4-unsplash-scaled.jpg) ### Regional Development Program The Regional Development Program provides targeted support for projects and investments that strengthen economic growth across Ontario’s regions. It offers funding to businesses, municipalities, and nonprofit organizations pursuing local development initiatives. [Learn more](https://www.ontario.ca/page/available-funding-opportunities-ontario-government) - ![Regional Tariff Response Initiative](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/resources/Card-Photos/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/LamPark-09823.jpg) ### Regional Tariff Response Initiative The Government of Canada is providing $1.95 billion to help Canadian businesses respond to global trade pressures, strengthen competitiveness, build resilient supply chains, and access new markets. [Learn more](https://feddev-ontario.canada.ca/en/funding-southern-ontario/regional-tariff-response-initiative-southern-ontario) - ![Black Entrepreneurship Program](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/External-Funding/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/BEP.jpg) ### Black Entrepreneurship Program The Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP) is a national partnership involving the Government of Canada, Black-led business groups, and financial institutions. It aims to help Black Canadian entrepreneurs access resources, build capacity, and grow successful businesses. [Learn more](https://ised-isde.canada.ca/site/black-entrepreneurship-program/en) - ![Brockville Community Grant Funding](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/External-Funding/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/RLP-326.jpg) ### Brockville Community Grant Funding The Festivals and Events Grant is funded through Municipal Accommodation Tax revenues and provides up to $7,500 per event. With spring and fall intakes, eligible organizations must submit an application, budget, and post-event report in accordance with the Festival and Events Grant Policy. [Learn More](https://brockville.com/community-grant-funding-and-application/) - ![Cornwall Tourism Development Fund (TDF)](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/External-Funding/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/Cornwall.jpg) ### Cornwall Tourism Development Fund (TDF) The Tourism Development Fund (TDF) supports organizations and individuals planning events, conferences, tournaments, or business initiatives that drive tourism. Its goal is to encourage activities that attract visitors and strengthen local tourism economies. [Learn more](https://www.cornwalltdf.ca/) - ![Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/resources/Card-Photos/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/22-CORNWALL-HISTORY-CULTURE-EVENT-AKWESASNE-POW-WOW45.jpg) ### Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program The Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program supports Indigenous entrepreneurs and businesses through access to capital and business opportunities. Funding helps eligible First Nations, Inuit and Métis entrepreneurs start, expand or acquire a business. [Learn More](https://www.sac-isc.gc.ca/eng/1375201178602/1610797286236) - ![Cornwall Municipal Grants Program](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/External-Funding/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/Cornwall-CAPE-1.jpg) ### Cornwall Municipal Grants Program The Municipal Grants Program offers annual funding opportunities to support and strengthen community-based initiatives across the region. Eligible projects include local events, festivals, programs, and other activities that foster community engagement. [Learn More](https://www.cornwall.ca/en/city-hall/municipal-grants-program.aspx) - ![Ontario Sport Hosting Program](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/External-Funding/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/sport.jpg) ### Ontario Sport Hosting Program The Sport Hosting Program provides project-based funding to help organizations deliver major national or international amateur sporting events in Ontario. It aims to create lasting sport legacies at all levels while generating economic benefits through increased tourism. [Learn more](https://www.ontario.ca/page/ontario-sport-hosting-program) - ![Tourism Advisory Panel (TAP) Grant](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/External-Funding/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/IMG_7636.jpeg) ### Tourism Advisory Panel (TAP) Grant The Tourism Advisory Panel (TAP) is a cost-sharing, application-based program that supports events and projects demonstrating strong tourism potential. It focuses on initiatives capable of attracting more than 5,000 attendees, encouraging new tourism products, and driving visitation to Gananoque. [Learn more](https://www.gananoque.ca/town-hall/tourism-advisory-panel-funding) - ![Rural Ontario Development Program](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/DJI_0871.jpg) ### Rural Ontario Development Program The Rural Ontario Development (ROD) Program replaces the previous RED Program and provides cost-sharing support for projects that strengthen rural communities. It aims to fund initiatives that encourage economic growth and development across Ontario’s rural regions. [Learn more](https://www.ontario.ca/page/rural-ontario-development-program) - ![Naturally L&A Activation Fund](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/External-Funding/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/SupperClub-July-148.jpg) ### Naturally L&A Activation Fund The Lennox & Addington Economic Development Office offers funding of up to $4,000 to support tourism initiatives. Eligible projects include new event creation, enhancement of existing events, and the development of new tourism products or activities, available until funds are fully allocated. [Learn more](https://naturallyla.ca/business-in-lennox-addington/naturally-la-activation-fund/) - ![Belleville Community Impact Grant](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/External-Funding/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/21_22-BOQ-BELLEVILLE-SIGHTSEEING-TOURS-SUMMER-DOWNTOWN40.jpg) ### Belleville Community Impact Grant The Community Impact Grant offers up to $10,000 in financial and in-kind municipal support, with municipal resources applied first. Eligible not-for-profits and charities must apply through the Grant Committee, outline required City resources, and demonstrate how their Belleville-based project aligns with one of the City’s strategic themes. [Learn more](https://www.belleville.ca/en/city-hall/community-funding-and-grants.aspx) - ![Belleville Tourism Grant](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/External-Funding/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/21_22-BOQ-BELLEVILLE-SIGHTSEEING-TOURS-SUMMER-DOWNTOWN56.jpg) ### Belleville Tourism Grant The Tourism Grant provides funding of up to $10,000 to support events, festivals, conferences, and tourism initiatives. Eligible expenses include event costs, rental costs, registration fees for not-for-profit status, and licensing, with funding intended for projects that promote tourism and cultural experiences. [Learn more](https://www.belleville.ca/en/city-hall/community-funding-and-grants.aspx) - ![Visit the County Community Partnership Fund](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/DSC03506.jpg) ### Visit the County Community Partnership Fund Visit The County’s Community Partnership Fund supports local non-profits and collectives in delivering events that attract visitors and encourage overnight stays during the shoulder season in Prince Edward County. The fund helps offset marketing and event costs to extend tourism benefits beyond the peak summer months. [Learn More](https://visitthecounty.com/funding-opportunity) - ![Transition to Tourism Entrepreneurship Program](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/External-Funding/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/21-SDG-COUNTIES-HISTORY-CULTURE-PRIESTS-MILL-ARTS-CENTRE16.jpg) ### Transition to Tourism Entrepreneurship Program The TTE Program, delivered through Firecircle and supported in part by the Government of Canada, provides entrepreneurs with tools and resources to develop their tourism businesses. It is designed to guide participants through planning, launching, and growing successful tourism ventures. [Learn more](https://www.thefirecircle.ca/programs) - ![Propel Student Work Placement Program](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/WITHORG-scaled.jpg) ### Propel Student Work Placement Program The wage subsidy is available to employers who hire students enrolled in recognized post-secondary programs for paid co-op or internship positions. It supports businesses across the visitor economy, including accommodations, food and beverage, recreation, transportation, and travel services. [Learn more](https://tourismhr.ca/programs-and-services/propel-student-work-placement-program/propel-employers/) - ![Save On Energy Small Business Programs](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/External-Funding/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/Solar.jpg) ### Save On Energy Small Business Programs The Save On Energy programs and incentives help businesses implement energy-efficient upgrades to reduce costs and improve sustainability. These programs make it easy to invest in retrofits that benefit both your bottom line and the environment. [Learn more](https://saveonenergy.ca/For-Your-Small-Business/Programs-and-Incentives) - ![Canada Ontario Job Grant Program](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/External-Funding/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/training.jpg) ### Canada Ontario Job Grant Program Provides direct financial support to individual employers or employer consortia seeking to deliver training to their employees. The program helps businesses build workforce skills and capacity to support growth and innovation across their operations. [Learn more](http://www.tcu.gov.on.ca/eng/eopg/cojg/) - ![Tourism Innovation Challenge](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/pitch-scaled-e1759840020159.jpg) ### Tourism Innovation Challenge The Tourism Innovation Challenge, presented by the Cornwall Tourism Development Fund, is accepting applications for its pitch competition. The winner will receive a $25,000 prize to invest in their business and innovative tourism solutions. [Learn more](https://www.cornwalltdf.ca/tourism-innovation-challenge) - ![Ontario Arts Council](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/External-Funding/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/DSC2569.jpg) ### Ontario Arts Council The Ontario Arts Council offers over 65 grant programs to support individual artists, collectives, ad hoc groups, and organizations across twelve artistic sectors. Funding is available to help creators develop projects, grow their audiences, and strengthen Ontario’s arts community. [Learn more](https://www.arts.on.ca/grants) - ![Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/External-Funding/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/7376/19-Brockville-MultiCultural-Festival-Oriental-Dance-Troupe-151.jpg) ### Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund OCAF provides Ontario cultural organizations with funding to support cultural tourism, increase revenue, and drive economic growth and job creation. The program helps organizations strengthen their operations while attracting more visitors to local communities. [Learn more](https://www.ocaf.on.ca/) - ![Canadian Experiences Fund](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/June-Newsletter-Image-Powwow.jpg) ### Canadian Experiences Fund The Canadian Experiences Fund provides $58.5 million over two years, including $6 million for Atlantic Canada, to support communities in developing tourism products, facilities, and experiences. Its goal is to enhance tourism offerings and attract more visitors across Canada. [Learn more](https://www.canada.ca/en/atlantic-canada-opportunities/services/canadianexperiencesfund.html) - ![Ontario Music Investment Fund](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/External-Funding/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/DSC05235.jpg) ### Ontario Music Investment Fund The Ontario Music Investment Fund (OMIF) offers targeted economic development support to the province’s music industry. It helps music companies with growth potential expand operations while creating opportunities for emerging artists to record, perform, and thrive in Ontario. [Learn more](https://www.ontariocreates.ca/investment-programs/international-development/ontario-music-fund) - ![Building Communities - Local Festivals](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/External-Funding/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/1000-ISLANDS-RIDEAU-WATERWAYS-RIDEAU-LAKES-ST-PAULS3.jpg) ### Building Communities - Local Festivals The Local Festivals component provides funding to local groups for recurring festivals showcasing artists, artisans, heritage performers, and First Nations, Inuit, and Métis cultural carriers. It also supports celebrations of LGBTQ2+ communities and Indigenous cultural traditions. [Learn more](https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/services/funding/building-communities/festivals.html) - ![Green Municipal Fund](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/External-Funding/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/sustainability.jpg) ### Green Municipal Fund The Green Municipal Fund helps municipalities upgrade infrastructure, achieve climate objectives, and contribute to a net-zero Canada by 2050. The program provides support for projects that enhance sustainability, efficiency, and community health. [Learn more](https://greenmunicipalfund.ca/new-funding) - ![Young Canada Works](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/External-Funding/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/youth.jpg) ### Young Canada Works This program offers eligible employers wage subsidies and access to talented youth with innovative skills. Subsidies enable opportunities in heritage, arts, culture, and official languages while fostering workforce development in these sectors. [Learn more](https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/services/funding/young-canada-works/employers.html) - ![Trail Catalyst Fund](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/External-Funding/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/Trail.jpg) ### Trail Catalyst Fund The Trail Catalyst Fund provides funding to support trail development, restoration, and sustainability. It helps communities enhance trails through infrastructure improvements, environmental projects, Indigenous partnerships, maintenance, and accessibility initiatives. [Learn more](https://tctrail.ca/funding/) - ![Canada Summer Jobs Wage Subsidy](https://www.rto9.ca/images/transforms/External-Funding/_540xAUTO_crop_center-center_none_ns/student-849825_1280.jpg) ### Canada Summer Jobs Wage Subsidy Canada Summer Jobs provides wage subsidies to support not-for-profit, public sector, and small private sector employers in creating summer work experiences for youth aged 15 to 30. Not-for-profits can receive up to 100% of minimum wage, while public and private sector employers with 50 or fewer full-time employees can receive up to 50%. [Learn More](https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/funding/canada-summer-jobs.html) ×