Apply Now: 2026 Tourism Funding Deadlines

Are you looking for funding opportunities to help grow and strengthen your business? We've compiled a list of opportunities you can leverage to realize your vision. Take the time to apply for one of these funding programs before they close. 

Rural Ontario Development Program (ROD)

DEADLINE: February 26, 2026 at 5 p.m. EST

Application intake period: January 19, 2026 – February 26, 2026

The Rural Ontario Development (ROD) Program is now open for applications — replacing the RED Program and offering $20 million over two years to support economic growth in rural communities. Municipalities, Indigenous communities, nonprofits, and small rural businesses can apply for cost-shared funding to support local planning, workforce development, infrastructure, and business growth.

There are two streams for this funding: 

• Rural Communities: Economic development, workforce, and infrastructure support
• Rural Businesses: 35% cost sharing up to $10,000 in cost-shared funding for small businesses (1–20 employees)

 Want to learn more? Attend an information session.

Ontario Trillium Foundation - Capital Stream

DEADLINE: March 4, 2026, 5 p.m. EST

The Ontario Trillium Foundation's OTF) Capital Stream provides funding for capital improvements to buildings and spaces. These places provide opportunities for activity, recreation and connection and play an important role in creating healthy and vibrant communities where everyone feels a sense of belonging.

In the Capital grant stream, OTF funds projects that update buildings, enhance spaces, and purchase fixed and non-fixed equipment so people and communities can thrive. 

Applications for this stream open on Feb. 4, 2026 and close on March 4, 2026. Participation in coaching calls with OTF is important to gauge the strength of your application. 

Save on Energy for Businesses

DEADLINE: Ongoing

Check out the programs and incentives for businesses to save money on energy costs through instant discounts, the small business partnership or the retrofit program. 

Local Festivals - Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage

DEADLINE: Jan. 31 for festivals between Sept. 1 and Dec. 31 of the same calendar year; April 30 for festivals between Jan. 1 and June 30 of the next calendar year; Oct. 15 for festivals between July 1 and Aug. 31 of the next calendar year

The Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage — Local Festivals component provides funding to local groups for recurring festivals that present the work of local artists, local artisans, local heritage performers or specialists, and local First Nations, Inuit and Métis cultural carriers. This includes the celebration of 2SLGBTQI+ communities and Indigenous cultural celebrations.

NOW CLOSED PROGRAMS

Destination Canada's Tourism Sprint Program

Destination Canada has launched the Tourism Sprint Program (TSP). This competitive, application-based, cost-sharing initiative funds short-term projects focused on creating innovative tourism products and supporting new tourism investments.

Experience Ontario

The Ontario Government is launching the Experience Ontario 2025 funding program, allocating funding for eligible in-person festivals. Grants are available for up to 50% of total costs up to a maximum of $125,000. Another intake is anticipated for this funding in fall 2026.

Ontario Trillium Foundation - Grow Stream

Delivered through the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), the Grow funding stream provides grants that range from $100,000 to $600,000 delivered over two or three years. Grants support established programs and services that have a proven track record of success and meet community need. Applicants can apply for funding to expand, improve or adapt an existing program or service.

Another intake for this funding stream is anticipated for fall 2026.

Main Street Funding Program

My Main Street offers a $15-million investment to support main street businesses and communities across southern Ontario. Funded by the Government of Canada, through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario). 

EV ChargeON Program

EV ChargeON is a competitive, application-based funding initiative for eligible municipalities in Ontario. The program's objective is to expand EV charging infrastructure, alleviate range anxiety, and support long-distance EV travel. Another intake for this funding is anticipated in fall 2026.

Canada Summer Jobs Wage Subsidy

The Canada Summer Jobs Wage Subsidy (CSJ) provides wage subsidies to eligible employers, facilitating the creation of quality summer work experiences for young people. The CSJ program welcomes applications from a diverse range of employers, including: 

• Not-for-profit organizations,
• The public sector, 
• And private sector organizations with 50 or fewer full-time employees. 

Employers who participate in this program will not only support the professional development of youth, but also benefit from the fresh perspectives and enthusiasm they bring to the workplace.

Another intake for this wage subsidy is anticipated in late fall 2026.