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Simcoe County accepting applications for 2026 Experience Simcoe County Partnership Fund

January 22, 2026   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

The County of Simcoe is now accepting applications for its 2026 Experience Simcoe County Partnership Fund.

This year, the County Council has allocated $400,000 to fund tourism- and culture-driven initiatives aimed at attracting visitors to the region.

“Tourism and culture are vital to Simcoe County’s identity and economy,” said County Warden Basil Clarke. “Through the Experience Simcoe County Partnership Fund, we’re proud to support creative, collaborative initiatives that showcase the best of our region, attract visitors, and strengthen our communities. This program is about investing in experiences that make Simcoe County a destination of choice for all.”

Up to $10,000 in funding is available for marketing, public art and beautification, trails and cycling infrastructure, and workforce development initiatives, while up to $20,000 can be requested for signage projects.

Eligible organizations may submit a maximum of one application for funding by the Friday, Feb. 13, deadline.

The 2026 funding will support and enhance tourism across Simcoe County by:

• Investing in initiatives that increase awareness and appreciation of, and access to, Simcoe County’s diverse tourism, cultural, and recreation offerings
• Foster partnerships and collaboration among tourism stakeholders, municipalities, and organizations to strengthen the regional tourism ecosystem
• Support innovative, inclusive, and accessible programming that improves the quality and appeal of visitor experiences
• Contribute to the County’s overall economic health by stimulating tourism-related spending and promoting Simcoe County as a desirable destination.
• Align funded projects with the Experience Simcoe County work plan and strategic priorities, including destination marketing, product development, and workforce development.
• Enhance tourism experiences that promote accessibility, inclusivity, and engagement for older adults by fostering social connection, active living, and lifelong learning within the community

All applications are reviewed by the County of Simcoe’s Grant Task Force, which consists of appointed members of County Council and is supported by County staff.

Funding will be distributed among successful applicants based on their alignment with the program’s requirements and objectives, and the project’s overall benefit to the entire region.

Program details and application guidelines can be found experience.simcoe.ca/resources/grant.

Prospective applicants can contact Tourism Simcoe County staff by email at   tourism@simcoe.ca with any questions.

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