We're here to support tourism operators with information on grants, training, workshops and other resources.
For the latest information on tariff support programs
visit our Tariff Support Information Page.
Insights from Spring Survey
Thousands of travellers were asked to share what inspired their journeys, what influences their decisions, and where they hope to go next. The results reveal a snapshot of travel today, from the emotional benefits of getting away to the practical realities shaping how and where people travel.
World Tourism Day
Join Ontario's Southwest on Friday, September 25 at Arrowwood Farms to celebrate the resilience, successes, and people who make our industry so special. Enjoy light refreshments, hear from an insightful speaker, connect with colleagues and meet new people with the same passion for tourism. This FREE event does require
registration.
Idea to Experience Course
Ever wonder how CK Tourism experiences like Hat Trick Farms' "Beyond the Vase" or TJ Stables' "Spirit Horse Encounter" came to be? CK Tourism worked with them to create these incredible opportunities that transform your tourism business. Learn how to take a simple workshop and transform it into a wonderous experience that elevates the guest experience and brings in a new source of revenue.
This course offers experience development training to individuals interested in building new experiences from idea creation to being ready to market. This multi-week course will guide you through the steps of creating your own experience.
Reach out to
cktourism@chatham-kent.ca for a code to receive 50% off the course investment and work with us to be the next "it stop"!
Reel Impact: Social Media Opportunities
- Let Southwestern Ontario Tourism Corporation help you with your social media marketing!
- Reach a wider audience with a custom reel and TikTok on OSW's social media. Plus, we'll tag your accounts as collaborators on Instagram and Facebook.
- Boost your visibility with a custom reel, professionally created and shared on both your channels and OSW's high-performing social media platforms.
Sponsored Email Opportunities
Feature your content (Blog, video, landing page) in OSW's email template to over 67,000 subscribers. (1 spot only per e-blast is available)
Booking deadline is minimum 4 weeks before your selected dates
Research and Data
Tourism research reports and insights
Tourism research can feel complex, from defining what questions matter to collecting, analyzing, and applying data effectively. This page highlights key tourism insights and practical takeaways to help you use evidence with confidence, strengthen your competitive advantage, and make informed decisions that support growth and innovation in the visitor economy.
Southwestern Ontario Development Fund
The Southwestern Ontario Development Fund provides support for projects and investments to existing businesses, municipalities and not-for-profit organizations for economic development in southwestern Ontario. The objective of the program is to provide financial support and services to help growing companies in eastern and southwestern Ontario make investments to:
- grow their businesses
- improve productivity
- invest in innovation and skills development
- pursue new markets
- generate broad positive regional economic impact
- create new good, sustainable jobs
Closed for 2026 - watch for the next intake
Experience Ontario
Closed for 2025-2026The Experience Ontario 2025 program provides support for festivals and events with a tourism economic impact to motivate visitors to discover Ontario, connect people with local experiences, and increase tourism spending.
Watch for this grant to return in the fall of 2026 for 2027 projects.
Experience Ontario Marquee Event Fund
Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries
Deadline: Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis, but must be submitted at least four months before the event start date.
Description: The Celebrate Ontario Blockbuster program supports costs related to hosting:
- major one-time events in Ontario
- events that do not recur annually or biennially in Ontario
- national or international events in Ontario
Starter Company PlusThe Starter Company Plus Initiative provides free training, consultation and advice from our team of experts to help you get your tourism business started and on the road to success in Chatham-Kent!
If you're starting, expanding or buying an existing business, you can apply for Starter Company Plus and receive free training, mentorship and the opportunity to apply for a business grant of up to $5000.
For more information or details contact our Small Business Centre Team today.
