Overview

The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming (MTCG) supports destination and product development and investment in Ontario’s tourism industry.

We partner with industry organizations, businesses, municipalities and regional advisors to:

  • provide advice and make connections
  • develop resources and tools that help grow Ontario’s tourism, culture and entertainment sectors
  • support the growth of festivals and events through the Experience Ontario program
  • encourage new product development and promote Ontario as a tourism destination

Experience Ontario

Program overview

The Experience Ontario 2026 program provides support for festivals and events with a tourism economic impact to:

  • motivate visitors to discover Ontario
  • connect people with local experiences
  • increase tourism spending

Experience Ontario now provides funding through two streams:

  • Capacity Building for new, first-time festivals and events in the province
  • Established Events for recurring Ontario festivals and events, including those that may have previously received Experience Ontario funding

The program provides financial support to festival organizers, not-for-profit organizations and communities to deliver impactful, multi-day experiences and Canada Day celebrations. These events aim to:

  • draw tourists
  • encourage travel
  • showcase innovative programming
  • enhance visitor spending
  • create job opportunities in the tourism, culture, and entertainment sectors
  • celebrate our regional and local diversity
  • raise our profile through media and social media exposure

How to apply

Applications open on November 18, 2025 and close on December 16, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. (ET).

You need to submit your application through Transfer Payment Ontario’s online application portal.

Please visit the available funding opportunities page for information on the program, including eligibility criteria.

Regional Development Advisors

If you’re considering applying to the program, connect with a Regional Development Advisor early in the process to help you:

  • explore funding opportunities
  • understand program guidelines
  • navigate the application requirements
  • complete the submission process

They also work to promote tourism opportunities across Ontario.

To learn more, find a Regional Development Advisor near you.

Contact us

Email us if you have questions about the Experience Ontario program.