Ontario Investing $440,000 to Strengthen Cultural Tourism

TORONTO — Ontario’s government for the people is working to support local economies and create good jobs by investing $440,000 in cultural tourism events in communities across the province.

Through the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund (OCAF), the province is supporting nine cultural tourism events, which will help arts, culture and heritage organizations create new experiences. This investment will grow cultural tourism spending by making the entire province a more attractive place to visit. Grants range from $10,000 to $150,000.

“Ontario’s creative tourism events and attractions provide visitors with unique and unforgettable experiences,” said Lisa MacLeod, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. “Our investment in the OCAF program will create good jobs and 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 art and music festivals to smaller events that celebrate local culture and heritage.

“On behalf of the volunteer board of the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund we are so pleased to support a broad range of festivals, events and exhibitions across Ontario,” said John McKellar, President and Chair. “OCAF, with its unique structure, is able to support cultural tourism in Ontario to ensure economic impact, job growth and community development in small and large communities across the province.”

The fund offers an impressive return on the province’s investment. The funds are provided in the form of a partially repayable loan and repayment of these funds help to support future projects. This means that repayments replenish the fund and allow OCAF to invest in even more projects.