Local Businesses Encouraged to Apply for the Spark Mentorship and Grant Program

Tuesday, 13 October 2020 at 13:33

Local businesses can apply for a $3,000 grant through the "Spark" Mentorships and Grants Program that will match selected applicants with a tourism mentor.

OXFORD COUNTY - Local businesses can apply for a Spark Mentorship and Grants program.

Program Lead, Ontario Tourism Innovation Lab Justin Lafontaine says the “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program will match selected applicants with a tourism mentor and provide a $3,000 grant to help take their new tourism ideas to the next level of development.

“We are excited to be launching the “Spark” Program in Oxford County and keen to spark and support new tourism ideas that will enhance the region’s tourism offerings and drive innovation.”

The program’s goal is to find, foster and support new tourism ideas, experiences and partnerships that will enhance the region’s current offerings, address gaps or challenges, motivate travel and longer stays, and increase year-round visits.

The Oxford County “Spark” Program is led by the Ontario Tourism Innovation Lab in collaboration with the Ontario Ministry of Heritage, Sport Tourism & Culture Industries, Southwest Ontario Tourism Corporation, Tourism Oxford, and Community Futures Oxford. The region is one of 10 across Ontario to have launched the program to date.

Tourism Specialist, Oxford County Meredith Maywood says applications are encouraged starting today and they will be accepted until Friday, November 20, 2020.

“Oxford’s artisans, entrepreneurs and businesses are known for their innovation and inventiveness, particularly during these challenging times. We're excited to see what our community will bring forward to showcase Oxford County to our visitors!”

You can apply over the next month and they three winners will be chosen in a Dragons Den style competition in January. Each winner will receive a $3,000 grant to help take their tourism ideas to the next level of development. More information can found online here.