FAQ: RTO7 Funding Programs 2025-26

Jump to a particular frequently asked question, or scroll through the questions below.

1. What funding programs are available through RTO7 for 2025-26?
2. I’m running an event but am not a tourism business, can I apply?
3. The project I want to apply for won’t happen until January 2026.  Should I wait to apply?
4. I would like to apply for more than one program. Is that possible?
5. When is the application period for these programs?
6. When will I hear if my application has been approved?
7. Can I edit my application once it’s been submitted?
8. Can I start my project as soon as I receive notification that my application has been approved?
9. How does RTO7 decide who gets funding?
10. Is the Sustainability Inclusivity Program (SIP) still offered?
11. Is Recruitment Implementation Funding (RIP) still available?
12. What is the difference between Social Media Advertising and the Operations Implementation Program (OIP)?
13. Who is eligible to apply for OIP?
14. What expenses qualify as the matching funds for OIP?
15. Are there any sustainability requirements?
16. I have participated in the OIP program more than once in the last 3 years. Can I still apply?
17. What projects are supported under PP?
18. How does the funding for the PP work?
19. Are there administrative fees?
20. How long does it take to launch an advertising campaign?
21. How do I apply for funding?
22. What are the project deadlines?
23. What reporting is required post-project?
24. Are there other funding sources I can combine with RTO7 programs?
25. Where can I find more information or guidance?
26. What other resources can help me improve my application writing?
27. What resources are available to help me learn about integrating sustainable practices and policies into my business or organization?

General Information

Q: What funding programs are available through RTO7 for 2025-26?

A: RTO7 offers two main funding programs:

• Operations Implementation Program (OIP): Provides $1,000 in social media advertising for eligible tourism operators in exchange for investment in their operations.
• Partnership Program (PP): Provides matching funds for collaborative projects aligned with RTO7’s strategic priorities, including social media advertising, digital advertising, video/image development, experience development, French translation, storytelling, tradeshow support, and tourism wayfinding signage.

Q: I’m running an event but am not a tourism business, can I apply?

A; Yes, as a tourism stakeholder, you may submit an application specifically related to your tourism event.

Q: The project I want to apply for won’t happen until January 2026.  Should I wait to apply?

A: The project period is April 1, 2025 - March 31, 2026. There is no guarantee there will be a second intake, so please send in your application by the deadline of February 28, 2025.

Q: I would like to apply for more than one program. Is that possible?

A: Yes. Please submit applications for all programs you would like to participate in from April 1, 2025 - March 31, 2026. However, Stakeholders are limited to 1 social media advertising program per season, i.e., 1 OIP or 1 Partnership Program Social Media Advertising). There is no guarantee that you will be approved for any/all applications.

Q: When is the application period for these programs?

A: Applications are open from January 31, 2025, to February 28, 2025, at 5:00 pm EST. A second, limited intake will only occur if funds remain unallocated.

Q: When will I hear if my application has been approved?

A: We are aiming to have the applications approved and notifications sent out by March 31, 2025.

Q: Can I edit my application once it’s been submitted?

A: No. The applications are final.

Q: Can I start my project as soon as I receive notification that my application has been approved?

A: No, we still need final approval of our business plan from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, and all agreements must be signed first. We’ll let you know when everything is ready, and you can officially begin your project.

Q: How does RTO7 decide who gets funding?

A: Regional Tourism Organization 7 will determine funding allocation based on the project alignment with RTO7’s strategic priorities, distribution of projects (regional representation, seasonality, and business offering), and consideration for sustainable tourism practices and policies currently in place, or intent to improve economic, social, and/or environmental sustainability in the future.

Q: Is the Sustainability Inclusivity Program (SIP) still offered?

A: No, we have incorporated this program into OIP.

Q: Is Recruitment Implementation Funding (RIP) still available?

A: No, we have eliminated this from our program offerings due to a lack of stakeholder interest.

Q: What is the difference between Social Media Advertising and the Operations Implementation Program (OIP)?

A: OIP is offered at no cost to the stakeholder. The Social Media Advertising Partnership Program requires a minimum investment of $750 from the partner which is then matched by RTO7. In addition to allowing for larger campaigns, the SMA provides direct access to The Aber Group for planning where with OIP you will communicate directly with RTO7 staff who will then communicate your campaign to the agency.

Operations Implementation Program (OIP)

Q: Who is eligible to apply for OIP?

A: Established businesses or organizations (with all required operating permits), including

• Tourism Operator - The term ‘tourism operator’ is defined as a tourism, festival, heritage and cultural, consumer-facing organization that has direct access to the consumer and relies on that tourism consumer for their income.
• DMOs, BIAs, Chambers and Municipalities will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• Festival and event organizers may use this program as a part of their marketing efforts.

All applicants must:

• Be legally registered in Ontario.
• The product, experience, event, etc. must be located in Bruce, Grey, or Simcoe counties.
• Have no outstanding legal issues and have all necessary permits in place.
• Maintain an active Facebook business page and mobile-friendly website.

Q: What expenses qualify as the matching funds for OIP?

A: Examples include property taxes, mortgage costs, insurance, capital expenditures, and inventory purchases. Proof of these expenses (e.g., invoices and payment confirmation) is required.

Q: Are there any sustainability requirements?

A: Sustainability is not mandatory for funding, but projects incorporating measurable sustainable practices may be prioritized in the application review process.

Q: I would like to increase the dollar amount or length of the campaign. Is that possible?

A: There are no options to make timing or budget adjustments to the OIP program. If you have cash to contribute, the Social Media Advertising Partnership Program may be a better fit.

Q: I have participated in the OIP program more than once in the last 3 years. Can I still apply?

A: Yes. The restriction that prevented people from participating in the OIP program for 3 years in a row has been eliminated, however, this is a competitive program so there is no guarantee that your application will be approved.

Partnership Program (PP)

Q: What projects are supported under PP?

A: Eligible projects include:

• Tourism wayfinding signage
• Experience and product development
• Video and image development
• Social media advertising
• Digital marketing campaigns
• Storytelling
• French translation services
• Trade show booth space reimbursements

Q: How does the funding for the PP work?

A: The program gives matching funds ($1:$1 ratio) for approved projects.

Q: Are there administrative fees?

A: A $200 administration fee applies only if the applicant cannot grant the necessary Facebook access for digital advertising / social media advertising campaigns. This fee is otherwise waived for 2025/26.

Q: How long does it take to launch an advertising campaign?

A: We need 5 weeks from the kick-off call to launch campaigns. Please make sure that you have left enough time within your timeline to get your campaign launched.

Application Process

Q: How do I apply for funding?

A: The application process includes:

1. Contacting RTO7 staff (e.g., Kim Clarke for OIP or Alex Hogan for PP) to discuss eligibility.
2. Submitting the application form by the deadline of February 25, 2025, at 5:00 pm EST.
3. Signing a confirmation letter or collaboration agreement if approved.

Q: What are the project deadlines?

A: All projects must be completed by March 31, 2026.

Reporting and Requirements

Q: What reporting is required post-project?

A: Applicants must submit a final report within 30 days of project completion, including metrics that you have identified in your application. A final report template will be provided.

Additional Support and Resources

Q: Are there other funding sources I can combine with RTO7 programs?

A: Yes, Bruce and Simcoe counties offer additional grants that can be leveraged with RTO7 funding. Contact RTO7 or local county staff for details. Funding received from other provincial programs are NOT eligible.

Q: Where can I find more information or guidance?

A: Visit RTO7’s website or contact the relevant program staff for assistance.

Q: What other resources can help me improve my application writing?

A: RTO7 in partnership with Tourism Simcoe County and Business to Bruce are hosting a free virtual workshop designed to simplify the grant application process. Although the session will provide a general overview of grant writing (not specific to the RTO7 program applications), it will help you craft proposals that stand out. Join us on February 5, from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm by registering here.

Q: What resources are available to help me learn about integrating sustainable practices and policies into my business or organization?

A: The team at RTO7 are available to support tourism stakeholders at all stages of their sustainability journey. Please reach out to us anytime at info@rto7.ca and we will direct you to the team member best suited to support you. Additional resources are available on RTO7.ca under Sustainable Tourism.

This FAQ provides a summary of key information and will be updated from time to time. Please refer to the full program guidelines for comprehensive details and check back with this document if you have questions. You will need to attest to having read the program guidelines in your application.