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Canadian Experiences Fund - Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD)
Supports tourism projects and regional tourism development.
Last Update: June 6, 2026
Funding available
$ 500,000
Timeline
- Open Date : February 3, 2026
Location
Canada
Overview
The Canadian Experiences Fund (CEF) supports the development and enhancement of tourism products, facilities, and experiences across Canada, with priority given to projects that attract international tourists, create jobs, and have a broad regional impact. Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) manages the delivery of this fund in Western Canada, providing vital financial assistance to organizations aiming to expand tourism activities, diversify regional tourism offerings, and promote inclusiveness and sustainable growth. The program emphasizes projects that expand winter and shoulder-season tourism, grow rural and remote community tourism, and boost Indigenous tourism, along with initiatives that develop culinary and farm-to-table experiences.
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Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase social or community impact
- Develop strategic partnerships
- Develop a new product or service
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 500,000 $
Timeline
- Open Date : February 3, 2026
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Canada
Legal structures
- Non-profit
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- All groups
Non-profit candidates
Sector of operation
- Economic, Social and Community Development
Target groups
- All the groups
Revenue structures
- 100% donations / grants
Scope
- Provincial
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Development of new or improved tourism products and services.
- Market readiness training for tourism businesses and organizations.
- Creating or upgrading tourism infrastructure and facilities
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Non-profit organizations
- For-profit businesses (less than 500 FTEs)
- Industry associations
- Local, provincial or Indigenous governments
Who is not eligible
- Organizations not involved in tourism development.
- Applicants outside eligible regions.
- Projects not aligned with program priorities.
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Activities not related to tourism development or enhancement.
- Expenses unrelated to project implementation or outcomes.
- Projects outside eligible regions or sectors.
- Costs incurred before application approval.
Eligible geographic areas
Western Canada (Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Yukon, and northern Ontario)Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed for eligibility and project alignment by WD.
- Applicants will be notified of approval or rejection.
- Funding agreements are required before disbursing funds.
- Payments are typically made based on project milestones or expense claims.
- Progress reports and final evaluations are likely required as part of post-funding obligations.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Canadian Experiences Fund - Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) Program
What is the Canadian Experiences Fund - Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD)?
The Canadian Experiences Fund (CEF) supports the development and enhancement of tourism products, facilities, and experiences across Canada, with priority given to projects that attract international tourists, create jobs, and have a broad regional impact. Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) manages the delivery of this fund in Western Canada, providing vital financial assistance to organizations aiming to expand tourism activities, diversify regional tourism offerings, and promote inclusiveness and sustainable growth. The program emphasizes projects that expand winter and shoulder-season tourism, grow rural and remote community tourism, and boost Indigenous tourism, along with initiatives that develop culinary and farm-to-table experiences.
How much funding can be received?
Canadian Experiences Fund - Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) Funds up to $500,000 of admissible expenses.
Who is eligible for the Canadian Experiences Fund - Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) program?
To be eligible for the Canadian Experiences Fund - Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) program, you must:
Open to diverse organizations including non-profits, for-profits, governments, and industry associations.
What expenses are eligible under Canadian Experiences Fund - Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD)?
Development of new or improved tourism products and services.
Market readiness training for tourism businesses and organizations.
Creating or upgrading tourism infrastructure and facilities
Who can I contact for more information about the Canadian Experiences Fund - Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD)?
You can contact Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) by email at ACOA.information.APECA@canada.ca.
Where is the Canadian Experiences Fund - Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) available?
The Canadian Experiences Fund - Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) program is available across Canada.
Is the Canadian Experiences Fund - Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Canadian Experiences Fund - Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) is a Grant and Funding