In its budget this week, the provincial government unveiled a $100 million fund that will offer one-time grants of between $10,000 and $20,000 to eligible tourism and hospitality-based small businesses in the near future.
The province also introduced the Ontario Tourism Recovery Program – also pegged at $100 million – meant to help "historically successful businesses" get back on their feet.
The government is further setting aside $150 million for a tax credit to encourage Ontarians to explore their home province once public health experts say it's safe to travel.
Orillia and Lake Country Tourism executive director Kris Puhvel says the initiatives will bolster local tourism businesses in the Orillia area.
“Our tourism operators have had very challenging times, so this is some financial assistance to go right into their hands,” he said.
Puhvel says the Ontario Tourism Recovery Program will breathe new life into the tourism industry.
“I think it’s going to be very beneficial. Any program designed to help our struggling businesses that provide financial and other relief is going to be integral for helping business regain their status and building them back to what they were,” he said.
“We have so many enthusiastic operators here in our region, and it’s relieving to know that they are going to see relief both provincially and federally."
While Puhvel is excited by the provincial government’s announcement, he wasn’t surprised by it.
“It’s not a surprise because the government has been very supportive of the tourism industry since the pandemic began,” he said.
“I know operators have been working very closely with the government to ensure that there are programs in place to assist the industry, as well as invest in a promotional marketing campaign to get people out and enjoying their own province when the time is right,” he added.
Fern Resort president Mark Downing says the tourism industry is “very happy” to see some relief via the Ontario government's budget.
“We are a $36-billion economic activity generator in the province, 200,000 businesses, 400,000 jobs, tourism plays such a big role in our society and we are happy to see that recognized,” he said.
Although Downing is pleased with the government’s announcement, he is unsure how it might impact local tourism-based businesses like his in the near future.
“We have to evaluate what all of this means for the resort itself and how it will be supporting us moving forward. We don’t know exactly how this will unfold for us,” he said.
“We are extremely happy with our prevalence in the budget. Now, we will be tasked with figuring out how to operationalize and see where we fall within the qualifications of the benefits.”
Regarding the Ontario Tourism Recovery Program, Downing says it will play a key role in encouraging people to take stay-cations once it’s safe to do so.
“It’s fantastic support for the tourism industry and it will be great for everyone involved, that will be a great asset for us and other tourism destinations,” he said.
With good spirits, thanks to the government’s recent announcement, Fern Resort is now preparing to open back up for the year during the Easter long weekend.
“We are just getting staff back and running, shaking the dust off the property, and we are looking forward to becoming a resort once again,” Downing said.
