Over 150 projects supported to enhance recreational facilities, parks and trails to attract visitors to region

“With an investment of nearly $140 million for the Ontario tourism sector, our government has been making smart investments that put people first and grow local economies that work for everyone. A new Federal Tourism Growth Strategy will keep this industry strong and support the vitality of communities small and large across the country.”
– The Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario

“It’s time for Canada’s tourism sector to push past reviving all the way to thriving. Our government’s investments in tourism over the last three years focused on sustaining and rebuilding the tourism ecosystem, promoting what we have and designing for the future. A fully recovered and robust tourism sector is key to our government’s ongoing work to build an economy that works for everyone. Together, we can make sure that Canada’s tourism sector is something that visitors and Canadians alike will celebrate and enjoy for generations to come.”
– The Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance

“Across Southeastern Ontario, historical buildings, the natural beauty of the waterfront and recreational trails and spaces, draw in thousands of visitors to enjoy the culture of the region. The investments for 185 tourism businesses and organizations through the Tourism Relief Fund will enhance the economic well-being of communities through job creation and strengthen tourist attractions for a strong, resilient future.”
– Mark Gerretsen, Member of Parliament for Kingston and the Islands

“Élevage in Prince Edward County was more than just a wine and culinary festival; it was a celebration of the artistry and craftsmanship that went into every bottle and morsel. Winter may have chilled the air, but spirits were lifted by the warmth and camaraderie of the event."
– Erin MacInnis, General Manager, Closson Chase Vineyards Inc.

“We couldn’t have completed this major project without the support of the Tourism Relief Fund and the Government of Canada. This exciting new educational venue for Canada’s Dinosaur Park and Reptile Sanctuary will provide an incredible backdrop for guests from all over to learn about reptiles and dinosaurs from 65 million years ago.”
– Ted Loyst, Board of Directors, Canada’s Dinosaur Park and Reptile Sanctuary

“Environmental Action Bobcaygeon is pleased to have the support of RTO8 and FedDev Ontario, to proceed with projects that will benefit both the environment and our community.”
– John Bush, Co-President, Environmental Action Bobcaygeon

• Operating since 2000, Prince Edward County Winegrowers Association promotes Prince Edward County as a wine region through special events and market development.

• Canada’s Dinosaur Park is a not-for-profit amusement park in Indian River featuring dinosaur exhibits and a dinosaur drive-through for families to visit.

• Environmental Action Bobcaygeon Inc. encourages residents and visitors in City of Kawartha Lakes to use active transportation and protect the environment. 

• FedDev Ontario delivered nearly$140 million of the Tourism Relief Fund across southern Ontario, including $76.5 million in support for southern Ontario’s 11 Regional Tourism Organizations and Indigenous Tourism Ontario (ITO). As part of this investment, ITO received $3.5 million and has delivered $2 million to support 23 Indigenous-led tourism projects across southern Ontario and fostered connections between Indigenous tourism operators and Regional Tourism Organizations in the region. 

• In Budget 2023, the Government of Canada proposed a $108-million investment over three years as part of a Federal Tourism Growth Strategy to support growth, investment and stability in Canada’s tourism sector. Subject to parliamentary approval, this support, to be delivered by Canada’s regional development agencies including FedDev Ontario, will help ensure that our tourism industry can continue to be a driver of good jobs and vibrant communities across Canada.

• Since 2015, the Government of Canada, through FedDev Ontario, has invested over $215 million in nearly 400 projects across Peterborough, Kingston, and Southeastern Ontario, estimated to create over 3,300 jobs and maintain over 10,000 jobs.

Associated links

• FedDev Ontario
• Tourism Relief Fund (TRF)
• Regional Tourism Organization 8 (RTO 8)
• Region 9 Regional Tourism Organization (RTO 9)
• Environmental Action Bobcaygeon Inc.
• Indigenous Tourism Ontario (ITO) Tourism Relief Fund Overview •
• National Children’s Botanical Garden of Canada
• South Algonquin Equestrian Trails
• Bancroft Community Transit (BCT)

Edward Hutchinson
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
Edward.hutchinson@feddevontario.gc.ca

Media Relations
FedDev Ontario
feddevontariomediarelations-relationsmedias@feddevontario.gc.ca

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