How to Fund Tourism and Experience Development Projects in Canada

Building a new tourism experience takes capital. Whether you’re adding a four-season attraction, upgrading visitor infrastructure, or launching an Indigenous-led experience, funding is often the biggest barrier. Federal programs like the Tourism Growth Program are designed to help tourism businesses and communities invest in projects that drive visitation and local economic impact.

Core Funding Options

Tourism funding in Canada usually comes from federal and regional development agencies, often delivered as contributions rather than loans. One of the most relevant programs right now is the Tourism Growth Program (TGP).

Tourism Growth Program (TGP)

The Tourism Growth Program supports the development of tourism products and experiences that increase visitation, especially in rural and non-urban areas.

Program overview

Delivered by: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
Region: Atlantic Canada
Status: Open
Funding type: Generally non-repayable contributions, subject to a contribution agreement

Who can apply

Incorporated small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the tourism industry
Indigenous-owned businesses and Indigenous tourism organizations
Non-profit organizations, including tourism associations
Post-secondary institutions
Municipal, provincial, or territorial governments and related entities

Eligible project types

Development of new or enhanced tourism products and experiences
Projects that increase visitation from domestic or international travellers
Initiatives that strengthen tourism in rural and remote communities
Experience upgrades that support year-round tourism

How much funding is available

Funding amounts are determined based on project scope, impact, and costs
According to ACOA, there is no fixed maximum amount published; each application is reviewed individually and funding levels are set according to the specifics of the project (ACOA Tourism Growth Program Guidelines, 2024)

Because funding levels vary, strong applications clearly show how the project will drive visitation, extend the tourism season, or create measurable economic benefits.

If you want to see which tourism grants are open and suitable for your project, GrantHub can help you filter programs by province and applicant type in seconds.

What Makes a Tourism Project Fundable

Programs like the Tourism Growth Program are competitive. Successful applications usually have a few things in common:

Clear visitor demand: Evidence that travellers want the experience, such as market research or booking data
Economic impact: Jobs created, longer stays, or increased visitor spending
Readiness: Defined timelines, permits considered, and confirmed partners
Community benefit: Alignment with regional tourism strategies or Indigenous tourism priorities

Federal funders are not looking for ideas alone. They want projects that are ready to move forward and deliver measurable results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applying with a concept but no plan
High-level ideas without budgets, timelines, or partners are rarely funded.
Ignoring regional priorities
The Tourism Growth Program focuses on increasing visitation in Atlantic Canada, including rural and remote areas. Projects that don’t align struggle to get approved.
Assuming funding is automatic
Even though contributions are often non-repayable, they are still competitive and milestone-based.
Waiting too long to engage the funder
Early conversations with ACOA or a regional officer can clarify fit and save time later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Tourism Growth Program only for large tourism operators?
No. Incorporated SMEs, Indigenous businesses, non-profits, and even municipalities can apply. Many funded projects are small to mid-sized experiences.

Q: Is Tourism Growth Program funding repayable?
Funding is generally structured as non-repayable contributions, provided you meet the terms of the contribution agreement.

Q: Can rural and remote tourism projects apply?
Yes. Increasing visitation to rural and remote communities is a key objective of the program.

Q: How long does approval take for tourism funding?
Timelines vary depending on project size and complexity. Larger or multi-partner projects usually take longer to assess.

Q: Are Indigenous tourism organizations eligible?
Yes. Indigenous-owned businesses and Indigenous tourism organizations are explicitly eligible under the Tourism Growth Program.

GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada — check which ones match your business profile.

Next Steps

Tourism and experience development funding is available, but finding the right program and timing matters. Start by identifying which federal or regional programs align with your location, project type, and applicant profile. Platforms like GrantHub help you see which tourism grants are active now and which ones fit your business before you invest time in an application.

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How to Fund Tourism and Experience Development Projects in Canada