Government of Canada to enhance tourism experiences in Southwestern Ontario and Lake Huron communities
Press Release
From: Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
August 21, 2024
Southwestern Ontario attracts thousands of visitors with its scenic landscapes, rich heritage, dynamic arts scene and quaint towns. Nestled between Lake Erie to the south and Lake Huron to the north, this is a cherished destination offering a blend of rural experiences, natural splendor, culture, and hidden treasures, for those searching for unforgettable adventures.
Today, on behalf of the Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), Bryan May, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Small Business and to the Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, visited Snyder’s Family Farm, a rural tourism operator located near Bright. PS May announced an investment of over $3.2 million for 20 organizations across southwestern Ontario and along Lake Huron, through the Tourism Growth Program, which are diversifying their offerings to attract new visitors to the region. This includes over $1.1 million for five projects that support the growth of Indigenous tourism that are creating experiences that celebrate, preserve and teach Indigenous culture.
Snyder’s Family Farm, with an investment of $130,000 from the Government of Canada, is enhancing its seasonal-themed attractions, to extend the visitor experience. Opening for the season this September, these enhancements will draw more tourists to the area and boost the local economy.
The County of Oxford, with an investment of $90,000 from the Government of Canada, is developing and implementing a five-year strategic tourism plan to improve inclusivity, community vitality and sustainability. This includes creating trip itineraries and implementing technology improvements to help attract thousands of visitors to the area.
Information on projects receiving support through the Tourism Growth Program is included in the backgrounder.
The Government of Canada is investing in tourism projects in the region, including many rural tourism and agri-tourism businesses which are key drivers for local communities and economies. They offer a strong sense of identity for communities and unique experiences to tourists from urban and international destinations.
Quotes
“In southwestern Ontario and all along Lake Huron, there are charming destinations and scenic views to enjoy while visiting the local farms, museums and beaches. The Government of Canada is committed to supporting Canadian tourism businesses as they expand their offerings and welcome visitors to their unique attractions in the region.”
– The Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
“Southern Ontario’s tourism sector is an incredibly important economic driver and provides jobs for Canadians from all walks of life. Through the Tourism Growth Program, the Government of Canada is supporting local businesses like Snyder’s Family Farm. As we continue to invest in the sector, we will help bring more domestic and international visitors to the region to discover all that it has to offer.”
– The Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism
“Snyder’s Family Farm is a well-known destination that captures the essence of rural charm and family-friendly fun. With investments like those made today for tourism businesses, communities in southwestern Ontario and along Lake Huron are positioned to attract more visitors and showcase our unique, exhilarating and historic attractions.”
– Bryan May, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Small Business and to the Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
“FedDev Ontario support has had an enormous impact on our small business. As a rural destination, our family has been focused on growth for nearly two decades. This investment allows for improvements that a destination of our size needs to continue attracting visitors from all over Ontario.”
– Meghan Snyder, Co-owner, Snyder’s Family Farm
“Oxford County has witnessed the benefits of celebrating the authentic experiences that make Oxford County a unique destination. This approach has resonated with local businesses, residents and visitors, bringing increased investment in tourism, increased civic pride, and increased visitation. With FedDev Ontario’s recognition of and support for the growth potential in Oxford County and rural Ontario, we have an opportunity to work together to drive transformative growth and tangible economic, social and environmental benefits for our communities.”
– Warden Marcus Ryan, County of Oxford
Quick facts
- Incorporated in 2017, Snyder’s Family Farm, located in Bright, Ontario, operates an agriculture tourist destination offering agri-tourism experiences and regional attractions. They attract more than 60,000 visitors annually to rural southwestern Ontario. In 2023, they were the recipient of an Excellence in Agriculture award for Farm Family Excellence which recognizes agri-food leadership and innovation, supporting the growth and development of Ontario’s agri-food sector.
- Incorporated in 2001 as a two-tier municipal government made up of eight area municipalities, Oxford County supports and works with businesses to increase visitation across its mix of urban and rural communities, and to align with regional, provincial and national tourism objectives. As a certified GreenStep (Silver Level) Sustainable Tourism Destination, Oxford County supports tourism development and technology improvements in alignment with Destination Canada’s priorities, including outdoor, sustainable and shoulder season travel.
- Canada’s regional development agencies are delivering the $108-million Tourism Growth Program, over three years, to support businesses and organizations to help diversify regional economies. These investments in tourism products and experiences will encourage visitation to and within Canada. In southern Ontario, FedDev Ontario is delivering over $30 million through the program.
- A new application intake for the Tourism Growth Program in southern Ontario is now open until September 17, 2024. Tourism businesses and organizations can visit the Tourism Growth Program in southern Ontario page to see if they are eligible and submit an application.
- Since 2015, the Government of Canada, through FedDev Ontario, has invested over $415 million in nearly 1,450 tourism-related businesses and organizations, estimated to have supported over 24,500 jobs.
Associated links
Contacts
Edward Hutchinson
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
Edward.Hutchinson@feddevontario.gc.ca
FedDev Ontario
Media Relations
media@feddevontario.gc.ca
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