Applications Open for the Ontario Sport Hosting Program

Provincial investment will boost local economies through sport tourism

NEWS

November 15, 2024

LAMBTON-KENT-MIDDLESEX – The Ontario government is accepting applications for the 2025-26 Ontario Sport Hosting Program – Intake I. With an annual investment of $3 million, the program has supported over 190 events, contributing approximately $165 million to Ontario’s economy since 2018.

The Sport Hosting Program provides project-based funding to help applicants deliver national and international amateur sport events in Ontario. Organizations hosting an event between May 2025 and January 2027 may be eligible for funding. More information about eligibility and instructions on how to apply can be found in the Ontario Sport Hosting Program Guidelines.

“I’m proud to support the Ontario Sport Hosting Program, which plays a vital role in bringing national and international sports events to communities across our province.” Said Steve Pinsonneault, MPP for Lambton-Kent-Middlesex. “These events not only boost our local economy but also promote a culture of physical activity, pride, and community spirit. I encourage local organizations and municipalities to apply for this incredible funding opportunity, which will provide lasting benefits for our athletes, volunteers, and residents alike.”

The Ontario Sport Hosting Program assists organizers and Ontario communities with hosting national and international amateur sport events and reinforces Ontario’s reputation as a top destination for sport hosting. A wide variety of winter and summer sport events are eligible for funding.

“Sport tourism is a driving force for Ontario’s economy, and with our government’s investment we are ensuring that more communities are experiencing the benefit,” said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Sport. “National and international sport events attract thousands of visitors to our communities, and gives us a chance to showcase everything that Ontario has to offer, while helping our athletes compete for a home crowd.”

As well as bringing economic and tourism benefits to a community, sport events promote a culture of sport and physical activity and boost community spirit. They also provide opportunities to develop and train coaches, officials and volunteers – and for Ontario athletes to compete at home and get exposure for future national team events.  

QUICK FACTS

• Apply for the Ontario Sport Hosting Program between November 6, 2024, and January 13, 2025.

• The Ontario Sport Hosting Program is an application-based grant program that provides funding to national and international amateur sport events.

• Successful applicants can use this funding to help with operational costs, including venue, staffing, participant expenses (such as accommodations and meals) and legacy projects.

• Through the 2024-25 Ontario Sport Hosting Program – Intake II, Ontario invested nearly $1.7 million to support 19 national and eight international amateur sport events in communities across the province. These events are expected to attract more 11,000 athletes from Canada and around that world and generate over $25 million in economic activity.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Ontario Sport Hosting Program

Apply for the Ontario Sport Hosting Program

Ontario Sport Hosting Program Guidelines

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