Ontario Grant Supports Tourism Industry
Good news for travel agents.
The Ontario government is providing one time payments of $10,000 to $20,000 to support eligible small tourism and travel businesses struggling to recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic through the new $100-million Ontario Tourism and Travel Small Business Support Grant.
Lisa MacLeod, Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries, made the announcement stating: “Prior to the pandemic, Ontario’s tourism generated more than $36 billion in economic activity and supported more than 400,000 jobs across the province.”
Minister MacLeod continued: “Our government is working with small businesses to overcome the challenges of the past year – through programs like the Ontario Tourism and Travel Small Business Support Grant – and help the tourism industry reclaim its place as an economic powerhouse and key job creator in our province.”
The grant will support eligible small tourism and travel businesses that did not receive the Ontario Small Business Support Grant (OSBSG), such as travel agents, hotels, motels, resorts, and bed and breakfasts.
To qualify, businesses must have fewer than 100 employees and demonstrate they have experienced a minimum 20% revenue decline between 2019 and 2020.
Minister of Government and Consumer Services, Lisa Thompson said: “We are ready to deliver payments to the tourism businesses that have faced revenue loss, building on fee relief provided to travel agents and wholesalers earlier in the pandemic. This substantial grant will support their bottom line and help them keep Ontarians safe until we can once again enjoy travel with friends and family.”
Small business owners can use the grant in whatever way makes the most sense for their business.
Applications for this grant will close on Fri., June 25, 2021.
Go to www.Ontario.ca/businesshelp for more.
