Partner Support

Tourism Funding Support Finder

Find relevant funding opportunities across Canada with Destination Canada’s free funding search service, powered by Fundica.

Host in Whitby Grant Program

Deadline to apply is October 1, 2026 for next intake.

Rural Ontario Development Program

Deadline to apply is October 1, 2026 for Intake 3. The Rural Ontario Development (ROD) Program provides cost-share funding to help rural communities and small businesses in Ontario grow, attract investment, and strengthen economic development.

Ontario Trillium Foundation – Sector Grant

Deadline to apply is October 14, 2026. The Ontario Trillium Foundation's new Sector Grant stream supports projects that strengthen the capacity and resilience of Ontario's non-profit sector. Funding of $50,000 to $300,000 annually is available for eligible sector-serving organizations, associations, municipalities and destination organizations.

Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage — Local Festivals

Deadlines vary by festival start date. Next intake October 15, 2026. Funding supports local groups hosting recurring festivals that showcase local artists, heritage performers, and Indigenous or 2SLGBTQI+ cultural celebrations.

Ontario Trillium Foundation – Grow Grant

Deadline to apply is November 4, 2026. The Ontario Trillium Foundation's Grow Grant provides funding to help eligible organizations expand, improve or adapt proven programs and services that benefit communities across Ontario

Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund

Deadline to apply is December 22, 2026. ntario’s Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund provides funding for repairs, upgrades and new sport and recreation facilities.

Tourism Emergency Preparedness Resources

The Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC)'s Emergency Preparedness Resource Hub provides tourism businesses and organizations with access to tools, research and guidance to support emergency planning, business continuity and long-term resilience.

Global Sustainable Tourism Council Certification

GreenStep offers Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Certification for accommodations and tour operators seeking a globally recognized sustainability credential.

Sector Support, Innovation and Development Grant

Applications accepted year-round before the start date of the project or activity.

Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund

Deadline to apply: Application process must start at least eight months prior to an event.

Technology Innovation Support Through NRC IRAP

If you’re a small or medium‑sized Canadian business pursuing technology‑driven innovation, you may be eligible for financial support from the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP).

From the Biz Blog

Need to Write a Press Release? CCT Can Help

Writing a press release doesn't have to be complicated. This practical guide covers how to write, format and submit media releases, including submission requirements, writing tips, a suggested structure and a sample press release.

The Visitor Dividend: Understanding the Value of Non-Resident Visitors

The Visitor Dividend profiles highlight the important role non-resident visitors play in supporting local economies across York, Durham and Headwaters. Explore municipal-level data that looks beyond traditional tourism definitions to better understand the visitor market supporting local businesses, downtowns and destinations.

Making the Most of Google Business Profile for Tourism Businesses

Your Google Business Profile can be one of your most important digital touchpoints, helping potential visitors discover your business through Google Search and Maps. Learn how to optimize your profile, build trust, and avoid common mistakes.

New Scugog Island Experience Passport Invites Visitors to Discover, Shop, Stay and Win

The new Scugog Island Experience invites visitors to explore nine local tourism businesses, discover the Island’s culture, history and natural beauty, and enter for a chance to win unique local prizes. From live theatre and heritage attractions to boating, specialty food, shopping and unique accommodations, the passport-style experience encourages visitors to discover more of Scugog Island.

Finding the Right Photo in CCT’s Image Bank Just Got Easier!

Finding the right image for your next campaign just got easier. CCT’s new Digital Asset Library offers an improved, intuitive way to search and access destination photography from across York, Durham, and Headwaters, helping you quickly find the visuals you need to support your marketing, media, and storytelling efforts.

Headwaters Crafted Journey Launches as Major Regional Collaboration

Headwaters Crafted Journey launches as a new self-guided craft beverage trail across Caledon, Erin, Orangeville, Mono, and Grand Valley, featuring eight local makers, a passport program, and a regional partnership led by Central Counties Tourism.

Central Counties Tourism and Tourism HR Canada Expand Access to Belong

Tourism HR Canada, in partnership with Central Counties Tourism, expands access to Belong: Accessible Tourism Workplaces eLearning through CCT’s Learning Lab.

Golf in Ontario: A Collaborative Approach to Golf Tourism

Golf in Ontario is helping destinations and golf courses attract high-value visitors through coordinated marketing, travel packages, and regional collaboration. Learn how the program supports tourism growth and how tourism partners across York Durham Headwaters can get involved.

Get Your Summer Events Noticed: Quick Tips to Optimize YDH Listings

Quick tips to help your events stand out on the York Durham Headwaters calendar, plus how to create a free account and add your listings to the free regional directory.

AVTR1 in Action at Clearwater Farm in Georgina

Learn how Clearwater Farm in Georgina is bringing its story to life using AVTR1, Central Counties Tourism’s new augmented reality platform. From CSA baskets to on-farm experiences, discover how immersive storytelling is helping the farm deepen connections with visitors and build meaningful engagement beyond the gate.