Tourism Development Program (TDP)

This grant provides structured financial modalities to support tourism businesses in Saskatchewan through distinct funding streams. The modalities are designed to enhance project viability and resource allocation.

• Application-based funding with a maximum of $40,000 available per applicant.
• Applicants must commit to a minimum equity investment, varying from 30% to 50% of the total project cost depending on the selected funding stream.
• Funding is disbursed in installments: 60% upon signing the Contribution Agreement, 20% after approval of the Interim Progress Report, and the remaining 20% post completion and verification of project milestones.
• Funding cannot cover expenses subsidized fully or partially by other government programs or routine operational costs.
• Strict adherence to reporting requirements, including final reports and revenue metrics for two consecutive years post-project completion.

Eligibility for this grant is determined by specific criteria related to the applicant's business type and compliance with operational requirements.

• The applicant must be an existing market-ready Saskatchewan tourism business (incorporated or sole proprietorship) meeting all local, provincial, and federal requirements for operating a business in Saskatchewan.
• The applicant must be an existing market-ready Saskatchewan non-profit corporation focused on tourism, complying with all relevant regulations.
• Indigenous/First Nation/Métis Settlement owned businesses or Indigenous organizations such as Indigenous-led non-profits and representative organizations are eligible.
• The applicant must be in good standing with Tourism Saskatchewan.
• The applicant must have been in operation for a minimum of two years.

Who is eligible?

The Tourism Development Program (TDP) specifically targets market-ready tourism businesses and organizations in Saskatchewan that meet various structural and operational criteria. It is designed to assist in the expansion and diversification of travel-related offerings within the province.

• Existing market-ready tourism businesses in Saskatchewan, including incorporated entities or sole proprietorships, that adhere to all local, provincial, and federal business operation standards.
• Non-profit corporations situated in Saskatchewan that focus on tourism and meet regulatory requirements at all governmental levels.
• Indigenous, First Nation, and Métis Settlement owned businesses or Indigenous-led organizations, encompassing sole proprietorships, non-profits, Tribal Councils, and other Indigenous entities.

Who is not eligible

Ineligible applicants for the Tourism Development Program include certain entities and organizations not meeting specific criteria. The restrictions are designed to focus funding on qualifying tourism-related businesses in Saskatchewan.

• Federal or provincial governments and their agencies.
• Urban and rural municipalities and associated organizations.
• Applicants with an active TDP contribution agreement.

Eligible expenses

The grant covers specific expenses directly related to capital and infrastructure development necessary for the project.

• Capital and infrastructure development costs such as third-party construction contractors, building materials, and fixed/stationary equipment.
• Permit fees and construction design costs.
• Third-party shipping and freight expenses.

Eligible geographic areas

The Tourism Development Program is specifically designed for tourism enterprises operating within Saskatchewan. Eligible businesses must be market-ready and comply with regional regulatory requirements.

• Business operations must be primarily located in Saskatchewan.
• Registrations must be with the Saskatchewan Ministry of Finance.
• Applicants must align with provincial and regional tourism development objectives.

The evaluation and selection of projects for the Tourism Development Program (TDP) are based on a set of criteria designed to ensure that applicants meet the program's strategic goals and objectives.

• Demonstration of the project's potential to expand or diversify the tourism business, enhancing its long-term sustainability.
• The level of commitment shown by the applicant, particularly through financial investment exceeding the minimum required equity contribution.
• Integration of experience elements such as food and beverage, accommodation, transportation, recreation, and entertainment.
• Incorporation of niche tourism markets such as astrotourism, birding, Indigenous experiences, snowmobiling, and wildlife photography.
• Completion of Tourism Saskatchewan's experience development programs, such as Achieving AWEsome and AWEshop.
• Market-readiness and demonstrated ability to engage with tourism consumers effectively online.

Here are additional relevant details for this grant:

• The program is regularly evaluated for effectiveness after each adjudication process.
• Preference for funding may be given to applicants who have completed a Tourism Saskatchewan experience development program such as Achieving AWEsome or AWEshop.
• Preference may also be given to projects incorporating elements like food and beverage, accommodation, transportation, recreation, and entertainment.
• Preference may be given to projects targeting specific markets such as astrotourism, birding, snowmobiling, or wildlife and landscape photography.
• Previously funded applicants must complete their Year 1 Revenue Metrics Report before reapplying for the same funding stream.
• The first payment installment is 60% of the total allocation after signing the Contribution Agreement.
• The final installment is released upon project completion and verification of promotional and sale availability or construction completion.