Government of Canada supports tourism in Prince Edward County
News release
Parliamentary Secretary Kate Young announces $500,000 to strengthen tourism sector in Prince Edward County and help the industry maintain jobs
October 8, 2020 – Picton, Ontario
Prince Edward County’s tourism industry is essential to the region’s vitality. Every year, hundreds of thousands of people visit the area to sample what it has to offer. From local wineries, craft breweries and unique culinary offerings to some of Canada’s best freshwater beaches, tourism supports the local economy and creates jobs. The COVID-19 pandemic has had an immense economic impact on businesses across Canada, particularly those that rely on travel and tourism. As the economy reopens, the Government of Canada continues to support the recovery and growth of this vital industry.
Government of Canada invests in Prince Edward County tourism’s future
Today, Kate Young, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages (FedDev Ontario), on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages, along with Neil Ellis, Member of Parliament for Bay of Quinte, announced a FedDev Ontario non-repayable investment of $500,000 to support Prince Edward County’s tourism industry.
With this support, Prince Edward County, in partnership with the local Chamber of Commerce, will provide non-repayable contributions of up to $20,000 to local tourism-oriented businesses. The funds will support costs associated with recovery and reopening for business, including acquiring personal protective equipment, renovating to accommodate social distancing and implementing new safety protocols. The project is expected to support 50 businesses and maintain at least 100 jobs. Applications for this funding are now open. For more information or to apply, visit the Prince Edward County Chamber of Commerce’s website.
In the face of the pandemic, the tourism sector has shown its resilience by adapting to new circumstances and seeking opportunities for recovery and growth. The Government of Canada is working to support these businesses and communities by helping to maintain jobs and prepare the tourism sector for a strong comeback.
Quotes
"We want to support the businesses operating in the tourism sector so they can keep highlighting our region’s attractions. FedDev Ontario’s contribution to Prince Edward County will do just this, delivering targeted funds to those working in local tourism to help keep those businesses resilient."
— Kate Young, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages (FedDev Ontario)
"From our beautiful parks and beaches to our world-class wine and hospitality industries, we are supporting the businesses in the local tourism sector so they can continue to showcase all they have to offer. The investment in Prince Edward County will deliver support directly to local enterprises to help them adapt and maintain valuable jobs."
— Neil Ellis, Member of Parliament for Bay of Quinte
"Our tourism industry and the 1.8 million Canadians it employs have been hit hard by COVID-19, and we’re here for them. This funding from FedDev Ontario will help Prince Edward County continue welcoming visitors, adapt to the new reality and prepare for the future. Our message to our tourism sector and those whose livelihoods depend on it is clear: we’ve been here for you with immediate measures, we’re here for you now as our economy reopens and we’ll get through this, together. We’re working with you to support good, local jobs and help Ontario tourism come back strong.”
— The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
“We are thrilled to see that this funding will support businesses as they purchase personal protective equipment and implement new physical distancing and safety protocols. These have been challenging and uncertain times to say the least and we are grateful that the Government of Canada is supporting the efforts of Prince Edward County businesses to keep the community and visitors safe and healthy.”
— Steve Ferguson, Mayor, Prince Edward County
“The PEC Chamber is here to represent business and be an integral resource for businesspeople, and that is why we are pleased to be facilitating these new funds that will help support the ongoing needs of our business community. So many have had to pivot to safeguard workers, protect customers and the flow of our economy. We applaud you and know this is a small step to your recovery.”
— Lesley Lavender, Executive Director, Prince Edward County Chamber of Commerce
Quick facts
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In Ontario, tourism and related industries account for $39.4 billion in GDP and directly and indirectly supports more than 820,000 jobs.
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Businesses that receive funding through Prince Edward County will provide a minimum 20 percent contribution toward total project costs.
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Similar funds have been set up in other tourism-centred locations, including Kingston, Stratford, Niagara-on-the-Lake and Bruce County.
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Prince Edward County attracts more than 650,000 visitors annually.
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Prince Edward County was identified in Travel & Leisure Magazine’s list of top 50 places to visit in the world.
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FedDev Ontario has invested over $78 million in 260 tourism projects since November 2015.
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In February 2020, Neil Ellis, Member of Parliament for Bay of Quinte announced $100,000 through FedDev Ontario’s Canadian Experiences Fund for Harwood Estate Vineyards to establish rental accommodations within their vineyard, allowing tourists to stay on-site and maximize culinary and ecotourism experiences.
Associated links
Contacts
Catherine Mounier-Desrochers
Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages
catherine.mounier-desrochers@canada.ca
Media Relations
FedDev Ontario
416-954-6652
fdo.mediarel-relmedias.fdo@canada.ca
Toll Free: 1-866-593-5505
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