The Celebrate Ontario 2017 program comprises three categories:
• Celebrate Ontario 2017 and Celebrate Ontario 2017 Multi-Year provide project-based programming and marketing funding to new or existing Ontario events to enhance programs, activities and services and support innovations that will lead to long-term improvements, sustainability and the attraction of additional tourists. Existing large events with cash operating expenses of at least $1 million can apply for multi-year (two-year) funding for fiscal year 2017-18 and fiscal year 2018-19. Applicants must demonstrate how their event will:
o increase attendance and geographic reach.
o increase tourist visitation and expenditures.
o improve quality and sustainability.
o strengthen Ontario's tourism brand image throughout Canadian and international markets.
o facilitate overnight stays by visitors to a community through the development and marketing of overnight packages (e.g., theatre/hotel/restaurant discounts) and incentives.
o attract in-province overnight and out-of-province visitation in Ontario.
• Celebrate Ontario Blockbuster consists of two streams. The Event Bid stream and the Event Hosting stream support bidding costs and hosting costs, respectively, for major one-time events or events that do not recur annually in Ontario, but travel nationally or internationally to host destinations. Blockbuster events must be of a size and scope sufficient to draw tourists to Ontario’s communities, attract significant media exposure, and profile Ontario’s destinations nationally and globally. Blockbuster events must have a cash operating budget of at least $1 million.
Frequently Asked Questions
Review the frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the Celebrate Ontario program.
Successful Applicants
View the 2017-18 Celebrate Ontario event listings.
Grant Opportunities
Approved Grants