Applications now open for Bruce County Spark Mentorship and Grants program

Bruce County’s Spark Mentorship and Grants program is ready to help you transform your sustainable tourism idea into reality.

The program provides selected applicants with a $3,000 grant, expert mentorship from industry professionals, and additional partner support to get you started.

The program is a partnership among Bruce County, Bruce Power, the Bruce Grey Simcoe Regional Tourism Organization (RTO7) and the Tourism Innovation Lab. 

“The tourism landscape is evolving rapidly,” says Bill Sullivan, chief executive officer of RTO7. “Through the Spark program, we're empowering Bruce County entrepreneurs to create the next generation of visitor experiences that will set the region apart."

The program’s co-ordinators are looking for ideas that:
 

• Enhance Bruce County's existing tourism landscape
• Create high-quality, low-impact visitor experiences
• Fill gaps in current tourism products and services
• Encourage longer stays and repeat visits
• Increase shoulder-season tourism and spending
• Demonstrate genuine sustainability

Who can apply? Entrepreneurs, small business owners and non-profit organizations located in Bruce County.

“We're investing in the future of the county's tourism economy by supporting local entrepreneurs who see opportunity where others see challenges,” says warden Luke Charbonneau. “The Spark program connects innovative thinking with the resources needed to succeed.”

“Innovation drives economic growth, and we're proud to back entrepreneurs who are creating sustainable tourism experiences that benefit our entire community,” says John Peevers, director of community and media relations, and economic development at Bruce Power. “The Spark program aligns with our commitment to supporting local business development.”

The program is celebrating its seventh year of transforming innovative ideas into successful tourism businesses, including farm stays, culinary experiences and dynamic arts and culture programs.

“Since launching in 2019, the program has continued to showcase the creativity, drive, and innovative thinking of local tourism entrepreneurs,” says Alex Berlyand, program lead at the Tourism Innovation Lab. “Last year’s winners developed exciting new experiences and we’re thrilled to keep building on that momentum. We look forward to uncovering and supporting more great sustainable tourism ideas across the region.”

Applications will be accepted until Oct. 15. A juried review process will select finalists who will then participate in a pitch session which will result in the selection of this year’s winners.

For more information about this program and to register for an upcoming information session, visit www.tourisminnovation.ca/bruce.