OHTO 2025 AGM Recap: Progress Made. Momentum Building
The 2025 Annual General Meeting was more than a routine check-in for industry, it was a demonstration of how far Ontario’s Highlands’ tourism sector has come, and where it’s headed next.
Held virtually on October 8, the AGM brought together operators, industry professionals, and partners from across the region. It served as both a progress report and a strategy session as a chance to align on shared goals, examine results, and take clear next steps for the year ahead.
Whether you attended or not, the message was clear: tourism is delivering real value, and now is the time to make the most of your role in it.
Key Highlights from the 2025 AGM
1. A National Perspective on Local Impact
In a compelling presentation, Johanna Griggs, Executive Director of Tourism Development at Destination Canada underscored the role rural tourism plays in Canada’s broader economic and social landscape.
Her presentation - “Travel and Tourism: A Powerful Economic and Social Driver for Canada” - delivered insight into national trends, visitor behaviours, and the long-term potential for regions like ours.
Watch Johanna’s presentation at the AGM by skipping to timestamp 52:39 by clicking here.
Watch Johanna’s Destination Canada tourism video here.
2. Data That Tells a Story
Recent performance indicators from 2024 reveal significant year-over-year growth. These numbers reflect increasing opportunities for members:
- 4.28 million visits recorded in 2024 (+100,000 YOY)
- $569.2 million in total visitor spending
- 7,210 jobs supported by the tourism sector
- $175 million in tax revenues generated
3. New Leadership
OHTO welcomed three new board members and two returning members to its Board of Directors, each bringing a fresh perspective and ties to the tourism community. Please join us in congratulating:
- Barrie Martin (returning), tourism consultant – Haliburton County
- Meghan James (returning), Somewhere Inn – Renfrew County
- Harsha Manani, Lakeview Motel – Haliburton County
- Tim Porter, Tweed & Company Theatre – Hastings County
- Ed Chaplin, Springwood Cottage Resort – Central Frontenac
Spotlight articles on each new director will be published in the coming months in the Highlands Highlight.
4. Investments that Benefit Members
From campaign performance to product development, the Executive Director’s report outlined how OHTO is working to raise the profile of the region, and deliver measurable value to its members.
Notable results included:
- Campaign Successes: High engagement through collaboration with Destination Ontario and digital marketing campaigns.
- Infrastructure Progress: The Eastern Ontario Rail Trail project is on track to become the longest continuous rail trail loop in North America.
- Member Exposure: A new phase of ComeWander.ca is integrating member profile pages directly into the platform for more visibility.
- Niche Tourism Growth: Ride the Highlands continues to be a high-performing program in motorcycle tourism, creating targeted exposure for participating operators.
Next Steps: Maximize Your Membership in 2025-2026
Moving beyond the AGM, OHTO encourages members to take the following actions to make the most of their membership:
1. Register for Thrive Together: The OHTO Membership Advantage
Gain practical tools to increase visibility, grow your offer, and stay competitive.
When: October 29, 2025
2. Update Your Member Profile through OHTO’s Member Portal to ensure it is accurately listed and ready to appear on ComeWander.ca through the new integration. [link to member portal]
3. Book a Discovery Call to explore marketing and support opportunities with OHTO.
4. Complete the Annual Tourism Performance & Sustainability Survey to help shape the future of tourism in Ontario’s Highlands. [link to survey]
5. Expand Your Knowledge by accessing exclusive webinars, research and training through OHTO's Member Portal.
