Province supporting local economies and creating jobs

The Voice of Canada News

Ontario’s government for the people is working to drive local tourism and create jobs by investing more than $1.7 million in cultural tourism events that will help drive tourism spending in communities across the province.

Through the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund (OCAF), the province is supporting 28 cultural tourism events that will stimulate the economy and create local jobs, help attract tourists and increase revenue.

“Cultural tourism events strengthen the social and cultural fabric of our communities,” said Michael Tibollo, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. “This support will help arts, culture and heritage organizations create new experiences that will help keep our province open for business and open for jobs by making Ontario a more attractive place to visit.”

Cultural tourism events that receive support from the fund range from large exhibitions, festivals and anniversaries to smaller events that celebrate local culture and heritage and have a big impact in small communities. 

“Ontario is bursting with events, festivals and major exhibitions; it is truly a feast for residents and visitors alike!” said John McKellar, Chair and President. “OCAF is thrilled to be a partner by supporting marketing campaigns that will bring tourists to large and small communities across the province. OCAF is a unique program investing in extraordinary events that create jobs and resources for Ontario communities.”

Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund investments are partially repayable loans. This means that repayments replenish the Fund and allow OCAF to invest in even more projects.

Successful recipients will begin to be notified as of today.