Experience Ontario 2026: Application Intake Now Open

We are pleased to announce the launch of the Experience Ontario 2026 program to support eligible in-person festivals and events taking place between April 1, 2026, and March 31, 2027.

Festival and event organizers continue to develop and deliver exciting programming in communities across the province. Your many efforts attract visitors to explore all that Ontario has to offer, boosting local and regional economies while celebrating the diverse identities and cultures that make our province a special place to live, work and play.

Experience Ontario will use the online application portal in Transfer Payment Ontario for an improved user experience and submission process.

For information on the program, please see the Experience Ontario Application Guide.

Information about how to apply is available at Ontario.ca.

Experience Ontario will be hosting information webinars for applicants who are interested in getting more information on the program guideline, best practices and tips and tricks.  

Please register for one of the following dates:  

· Wednesday November 19, 2025 10:00am to 11:00am (English)

· Thursday November 20, 2025, 6:00pm to 7:00pm (English) 

· Tuesday November 25, 2025, 2:00pm to 3:00pm (French)

Regional Development Advisors are available to assist with questions about the application process.

The application period is now open – applications will be accepted until December 16, 2025, at 4 p.m. (EST).

Please note: Experience Ontario is a highly competitive program.
Applications will be measured against program criteria and there is no
guarantee of funding.

Experience Ontario

Investment and Development Office

Tourism and Culture Division, Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming

5th Flr, 400 University Ave Toronto, ON, M7A 2R9