Applications are now open for the 2025-26 Regional Tourism Organization 7 (RTO7) tourism, marketing, and development programs.
These programs are contingent on the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming's approval of RTO7's 2025-26 Business Plan.
"This year we are adopting an application intake period which provides RTO7 with the opportunity to review all submissions collectively," read a recent media release from RTO7, adding that this will ensure strategic allocation of funding across Bruce Grey Simcoe.
Applications will be accepted until February 28, 2025 at 5pm with the program running from April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2026.
Tourism operators, DMOs, municipalities, counties, and other tourism stakeholders in the three counties.
Programs include:
Video/Image Development: Create compelling visual content for marketing;
Storytelling: Using engaging narratives to tell your unique story through qualified writers or influencers;
Digital Advertising: Run targeted ad campaigns with expert agency management;
Social Media Advertising: Agency supported social media campaigns on Meta platforms;
Tourism Wayfinding Signage: Plan and install large-scale signage to improve navigation with RTO7 signage standards;
Experience Development: Funds large-scale tourism projects, including product/experience development, research, and workforce initiatives to enhance regional tourism offerings;
French Translation Services: Translate marketing materials of interest to French-speaking audiences; and
Trade Show Support: Partial reimbursement of booth costs at relevant trade shows.
The Program Guidelines and links to all applications can be found on RTO7.ca.
Potential applicants are asked to reach out to Alex Hogan at ahogan@rto7.ca to confirm eligibility.
An RTO7 Partnership Program is also available and supports tourism stakeholders in the region by offering matched funds for projects that align with RTO7's strategic plan.
"This is not a grant but a co-managed initiative designed to maximize regional resources and impact," read the release.
For more information, visit rto7.ca/Public/Programs/Program-FAQs or email ahogan@rto7.ca.
