The City of Greater Sudbury has partnered with the Greater Sudbury Development Corporation to launch a Tourism Development Fund that will make up to $1 million available for investment into projects that boosts visits to the Nickel City.
Applications are open to private, public and non-profit sector proposals that will “increase visitation and overnight stays in the community.”
Revenue collected through the city’s Municipal Accommodation Tax has been building the investment fund since 2018. Back in February, Greater Sudbury said the tax had brought in $500,000 more than forecast.
“Although we’re currently on pause for vacations and travel, when life returns to normal, our tourism sector will be ready to help restart the economy,” said Mayor Brian Bigger in a news release.
“Greater Sudbury already has one of the most successful tourism industries in Northern Ontario. The Tourism Development Fund will help leverage proposals that promote and grow our community’s outdoor amenities, attractions and cultural offerings.”
Applications for the fund are being accepted now from tourism operators.
When awarding proposals, the city said the GSDC Tourism Development Committee will be considering opportunities to leverage funding from federal and provincial governments, as well as visitor experience and product development to increase numbers and length of stay.
“As economic recovery efforts and resources are being announced regularly by federal and provincial governments, the GSDC board is excited to be able to invest back into our tourism sector and focus on the future,” said Andrée Lacroix, chair of the GSDC board.
“Now is the time to stay strong and to support the unwavering resilience of our community.”
The Tourism Development Committee is made up of industry stakeholders who are working with members of the Hospitality and Accommodation Association of Sudbury as well as representatives from local retail and attraction sectors.
“The Tourism Development Fund is intended for both strategic investments to expand the industry and for local supports to help our tourism operators prepare for the return of vacationers and overnight visitors,” said Peter Nykilchuk, chair of the Tourism Development Committee.
“We encourage all of our partners in the industry, large and small, to explore their eligibility for funding assistance.”
Information is available online at InvestSudbury.ca/TDF and by email at gsdc@greatersudbury.ca.
