Cultural Supports Program — Community Events Stream

Community Events Stream Grant Summary

Community Events Stream Grant in Northern Ontario

The Community Events Stream is a grant program that supports municipalities, Indigenous communities, not-for-profit organizations, and Local Services Boards in Northern Ontario by providing funding for new and recurring community-based and tourism events. Eligible projects include events that attract tourists, enhance community profile, and promote economic development. Applicants can receive a conditional contribution of up to 30% of total eligible costs to a maximum of $15,000, with the possibility of receiving 50% of approved funding upfront. The evaluation criteria consider factors such as investment from other sources, anticipated attendance numbers, tourism expenditures, and the economic impact of the event.

Eligibility and Requirements

Organizations that host events designed to increase community profile and promote economic development in Northern Ontario are eligible to apply, including municipalities, Indigenous communities, not-for-profit organizations, and Local Services Boards. Projects must be new or recurring community-based or tourism events that attract tourists, increase attendance, and enhance the quality and sustainability of the event. Applications must be submitted a minimum of 16 weeks prior to the event date, and events that have already occurred will not be considered for funding. Operational costs directly related to delivering the event and capital purchases of equipment and assets are eligible under the program.

Funding and Evaluation Criteria

Funding is provided in the form of a conditional contribution of up to 30% of total eligible costs to a maximum of $15,000. Additional funds may be disbursed based on the approval of the NOHFC Board of Directors. The evaluation criteria include factors such as the level of investment from other sources, anticipated attendance numbers, tourism expenditures, economic impact at various levels, and the likelihood of NOHFC funding improving the quality and sustainability of the event. Projects that demonstrate a significant economic benefit may be considered for additional funding on a case-by-case basis.

Program Requirements and Restrictions

Applications must be submitted a minimum of 16 weeks prior to the event date, and events that have already occurred will not be considered for funding. Organizations may be required to reimburse NOHFC if assets financed by the grant are sold within the first three years after project completion. Ongoing operational costs unrelated to the event, event costs of participant travel, alcohol, awards or gifts, and private sector events led by federal or provincial governments are not eligible for funding. The NOHFC Board of Directors may consider exceptions to eligibility criteria for projects addressing priority economic needs in Northern Ontario.

Conclusion

The Community Events Stream grant program in Northern Ontario offers organizations the opportunity to secure funding for new and recurring community-based and tourism events that contribute to economic development and attract tourists to the region. By supporting events that enhance community profile, increase tourism expenditures, and promote sustainability, the grant aims to boost the economic impact of local events while fostering growth and development in Northern Ontario. Organizations interested in hosting events that align with the program criteria are encouraged to apply and leverage the financial support provided by the NOHFC to bring their event visions to life.