Together we can spark and support new, eco-friendly tourism ideas in Bruce County! 

The Spark Mentorships and Grants Program will match selected applicants from the region with a tourism mentor, provide a $3,000 grant and additional partner support to help take their new tourism ideas to the next level of development.

The goal is to find, foster and support new accessible tourism ideas, experiences and partnerships that will enhance current offerings, address gaps or challenges, motivate travel and longer stays, and increase year-round visits.

We are also encouraging existing tourism operators to think about offering more experiential, unique or enhanced activities and eco-friendly options so that we can expand beyond high season, increase year-round visitors and spending, and spread our existing market to destinations across Bruce County.

How it Works

Submit an application. And following a review process, finalists will be invited to a virtual Pitch Session where three winners will be selected.

Winners will receive:

• 3-month mentorship with a tourism innovator, experienced operator, industry leader and/or sector expert

• $3,000 grant to support tourism idea development activities

• Access to a support network of tourism innovators, entrepreneurs and leaders

• Ongoing guidance on other resources and support services provided by partners

All program applicants are invited to join the "Spark" community of tourism innovators, idea makers, partners and supporters for special networking events, one-on-one's, and development workshops.

What are we looking for?

New, sustainable tourism ideas that address one or more of the following:

• Enhances our current tourism offerings

• Creates high-quality, low impact tourism experiences
• Addresses gaps in tourism products and services
• Motivates longer stays and repeat visits
• Increases shoulder season visits and tourism spending

*New tourism ideas must be based in and benefit Bruce County.

Applications now closed.

We're here to help!

Looking to speak to someone about the program? Request a conversation.