We're here to support tourism operators with information on grants, training, workshops and other resources. Have a question? Email cktourism@chatham-kent.ca or call 1-800-561-6125.
2026 SO Tourism ConferenceThe Southern Ontario Tourism Conference is set for March 3rd, & 4th, 2026 in London, Ontario.
Early-bird registration is now open! Save money and secure your spot by registering now!
Are you a first time attendee as a tourism operator in Chatham-Kent? Contact us to find how to save even more on your registration by emailing us at cktourism@chatham-kent.ca.
Why attend?
- Expand your Network
- Learn from Esteemed Experts
- Hands-On Learning
- Stay Informed about Industry Trends
- Customize Your Learning Experience
- Intimate and Focused Learning Groups
- Practical Takeaways for Immediate Implementation
- Celebrate & be Inspired by Innovation
- Cultural Enrichment
- It's all about Fun!
Tariff Support Information
For the latest information on tariff support programs
visit our Tariff Support Information Page.
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.
Limited-Time Opportunities – First Come, First Served
Tourism Sprint Program
NOW CLOSED - For those who have sent in an Expression of Interest, please see next steps below.
- Step 1 – Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Step 2 – Determine Funding Stream
- Step 3 – Await Contact from Destination Canada
- After receiving your EOI, a member of our Destination Development team will contact you with next steps and guidance on completing the full application form.
- Step 4 – Submit Full Application
- Full applications will be accepted until 5:00 p.m. PT on October 1, 2025.
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
Application deadline: September 23, 2026
Experience Ontario
Closed for 2024-2025The 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 2025 for 2026 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.
