General News » Headline News » News

New program aims to “spark” innovative tourism ideas

April 14, 2022   ·   0 Comments

A new program aimed at sparking and supporting innovative tourism ideas in Simcoe County has been launched.

The “Spark” Mentorships & Grants program will match selected applicants with a mentor and provide a $3,000 seed grant to help take their tourism idea to the next level.

The “Spark” program was first launched in 2018 by the Tourism Innovation Lab and has now been delivered to over 20 regions across Ontario and British Columbia.

The goal is to find, foster, and support new tourism ideas that will enhance current offerings and address gaps or challenges. It is designed to motivate travel and longer stays as well as increase year-round visits.

Program organizers are especially interested in ideas that will advance sustainable and regenerative tourism in Simcoe County.

“The County of Simcoe is proud of its small businesses and the innovations they bring to the region,” said Goerge Cornell, Warden County of Simcoe. “The ‘Spark’ Program is especially exciting in that it brings new tourism ideas to promote and enhance Simcoe County all year. I look forward to seeing the ideas pouring in and increased tourism to our beautiful region.”

Individual entrepreneurs, small businesses, non-profits, and community groups are encouraged to apply with their new tourism ideas from April 6 to May 12, 2022.

Following a juried review process, five finalists will be invited to virtual pitch sessions where three winners will be selected to receive mentorships and grants.

“We are beyond thrilled to be launching the ‘Spark” Program by Innovation Lab in Simcoe County,” said Kathryn Stephenson, Manager of Tourism, County of Simcoe. “We have some of the most unique tourism product offerings and operators, and are truly looking forward to seeing the ideas and experiences developed through this program.”

The Simcoe County “Spark” program is being led by the Tourism innovation Lab in collaboration with Tourism Simcoe County and Regional Tourism Organization 7.

By Brian Lockhart


Readers Comments (0)


You must be logged in to post a comment.

Page Reader Press Enter to Read Page Content Out Loud Press Enter to Pause or Restart Reading Page Content Out Loud Press Enter to Stop Reading Page Content Out Loud Screen Reader Support