Closed
Tourism Innovation Grant Program
Funding for innovative tourism experiences in Oxford County
Last Update: May 1, 2026
Funding available
$ 150,000
Timeline
- Closing date : March 31, 2026
Location
Ontario, Canada
Overview
The program supports Oxford County tourism businesses and non-profits developing or expanding unique visitor experiences. Selected applicants can receive up to $3,000, with funding focused on innovative tourism projects.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase performance through digital transformation
- Develop strategic partnerships
- Develop a new program or service
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 150,000 $
- Up to 50% of project cost
Timeline
- Closing date : March 31, 2026
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- Arts, entertainment and recreation
- Accommodation and food services
Location
- Ontario
Legal structures
- All legal structures
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- All groups
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Development or expansion of tourism experiences
- Creation of unique and innovative visitor experiences
Documents Needed
- Master business license or proof of non-profit status
- Proof of insurance
- Confirmation of appropriate zoning and permits, if applicable
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Tourism-related businesses in Oxford County
- Tourism-related non-profit organizations in Oxford County
Who is not eligible
- Businesses that have previously received the Tourism Innovation Grant
Eligible expenses
- Capital costs
- Professional business services such as construction, planning, consulting, photography, video, writing, product development, research, web design, and graphic design
- Items considered innovative
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Staffing expenses
- Retail inventory
- Items purchased before the grant is received
- Debt repayment
- Costs covered by other listed partnership programs
Eligible geographic areas
- Oxford County, Ontario
Selection criteria
- Creativity and need - 30 points
- Ability to develop - 20 points
- Marketing skills or plan - 10 points
- Economic impact - 10 points
- DEI - 10 points
- Community impact - 10 points
- Financial contribution - 10 points
How to apply
- Step 1: Review eligibility and program details
- Confirm your business or non-profit meets the stated requirements.
- Check the eligible activities, expenses, and scoring priorities.
- Step 2: Complete the online application
- Submit the application through the program’s online form.
- Provide the required supporting information and documents.
- Step 3: Wait for review and finalist notification
- Applications are reviewed and scored by the grant committee.
- Finalists are contacted for a virtual interview or pitch.
- Step 4: Attend interview and receive decision
- Participate in the virtual interview if selected as a finalist.
- Successful applicants are notified after the interview process.
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed and scored against the program metrics
- Finalists are invited to a virtual interview or pitch
- Recipients are notified after the interviews
- Selected applicants receive the grant following approval
Additional information
- Applications for 2026 are closed.
- Finalists are invited to a virtual interview or pitch.
- Selected recipients receive a $3,000 grant.
- Priority areas include handicraft/culture, culinary, sustainability & outdoor experiences, and cycling.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Tourism Innovation Grant Program Program
What is the Tourism Innovation Grant Program?
The program supports Oxford County tourism businesses and non-profits developing or expanding unique visitor experiences. Selected applicants can receive up to $3,000, with funding focused on innovative tourism projects.
How much funding can be received?
Tourism Innovation Grant Program Funds up to 50% of admissible expenses, capped at $150,000 per project.
Who is eligible for the Tourism Innovation Grant Program program?
To be eligible for the Tourism Innovation Grant Program program, you must:
Operates in Oxford County
Business or non-profit status
Project planned for 2026
What expenses are eligible under Tourism Innovation Grant Program?
Development or expansion of tourism experiences
Creation of unique and innovative visitor experiences
Who can I contact for more information about the Tourism Innovation Grant Program?
You can contact Oxford County by email at Nathalie@mtlab.ca or by phone at 519-425-0401.
Where is the Tourism Innovation Grant Program available?
The Tourism Innovation Grant Program program is available the province of Ontario.
Is the Tourism Innovation Grant Program a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Tourism Innovation Grant Program is a Partnering and Collaboration