The Canadian Horse Statue Project was one of 14 recipients of the 2024 Regional Tourism Grant. It can be seen at Upper Canada Village.
Supporting Growth and Innovation in Regional Tourism
The United Counties of Stormont, Dundas, and Glengarry (SDG) have officially launched the 2025 SDG Regional Tourism Grant Program (RTG), a funding initiative designed to support local organizations in developing, expanding, and sustaining tourism-focused projects. This program aims to enhance the region’s visibility and economic impact by offering financial assistance to community leaders committed to providing unique and enriching experiences for both residents and visitors.
Purpose and Objectives
The RTG program seeks to provide limited but impactful financial support to organizations dedicated to attracting visitors to SDG. By funding innovative and engaging projects, the program fosters economic growth while ensuring that the region remains a vibrant and attractive destination. Grants will be distributed fairly and transparently, ensuring the maximum benefit for the community.
Eligibility and Application Process
Each year, SDG County Council determines the funding allocation for the RTG program during the budget process. Once approved, eligible organizations can apply for grants ranging from $500 to $5,000.
Organizations eligible for the grant must:
- Be a not-for-profit community organization or municipality within SDG focused on attracting visitors.
- Ensure their projects are geared towards regional and external visitors rather than local-centric events (e.g., Canada Day or Santa Claus parades are not eligible).
- Demonstrate financial sustainability by showing that the grant will supplement, not replace, other funding sources.
- Apply for funding only for future projects (retroactive funding is not available).
- Comply with reporting requirements if they have received past funding.
- Submit a single application per year, with no guarantee of continued funding in subsequent years.
Exemptions and Exclusions
Annual funding for SDG Agricultural Societies that host traditional fairs will continue outside the RTG program. However, these organizations may apply for additional grants under RTG if they introduce new and innovative special projects beyond their standard fair events.
The grant excludes individuals, businesses, publicly funded institutions (e.g., schools and hospitals), recreational sports groups, alcohol-related expenses, and any events occurring outside SDG Counties.
Application Review and Deadlines
Applications for the 2025 Regional Tourism Grant must be submitted online at whereontariobegan.ca/regionaltourismgrant by February 25, 2025. A review panel comprising one County Council member, the Tourism Coordinator, and an additional SDG staff member will assess all submissions based on project feasibility, economic impact, visitor attraction potential, and community involvement.
Successful applicants will be notified by the end of April 2025. At this stage, they will receive 50% of the grant, with the remaining 50% disbursed upon submission of a final report detailing the event’s impact, financial summary, and promotional materials.
Accountability and Recognition
To ensure transparency and accountability, all recipients must sign a Partnership Agreement outlining grant conditions. Additionally, they must submit a Final Report within 60 days of their project’s completion, including:
- A description of the completed event;
- A financial breakdown of expenses and revenue;
- Photos and promotional materials for future County marketing efforts.
Recognition for grant recipients may include media releases, signage, and promotional partnerships with SDG Counties.
The SDG Regional Tourism Grant Program presents an exciting opportunity for community organizations to enhance the region’s appeal, create economic benefits, and enrich visitor experiences. Don’t miss the chance to bring your tourism vision to life—apply before February 25, 2025!