Deadline to apply: There is no deadline for Stage 1 applications, but organizations must start the application process approximately eight months prior to an event. 

---

The Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund (OCAF) is an investment fund that assist arts, cultural and heritage organizations develop, promote and present one-off or first time events, or a significant expansion of existing activity, that are designed to attract new tourists and visitors to cultural events in communities across Ontario. OCAF achieves this by providing up front working capital directed towards the applicant’s marketing and promotional costs, with the investment taking the form of a partially repayable loan.

OCAF has a two stage application process to ensure organizations do not dedicate significant time, effort and resources towards an ineligible project:

• Stage 1 – requires the applicant to complete a three-page form with basic information about the proposed project and target market. If the project meets the general eligibility criteria, applicants will be provided with the Stage 2 application form. There is no deadline for Stage 1 applications, but organizations must start the application process approximately eight months prior to an event.
  First time applicants, and those requiring further information or assistance with the application, should contact OCAF staff prior to submitting an application.

• Stage 2 – requires the development of a detailed business case that includes a marketing plan, attendance and revenue projections and an analysis of the benefits of the project for the community. Applications should be assessed by the OCAF Board approximately three to six months prior to an event. There are six application deadlines for Stage 2 throughout the year which can be reviewed here. The 2026 deadline dates are: January 9, 2026, February 20, 2026, April 17, 2026, May 29, 2026, September 4, 2026, and November 6, 2026.