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Guelph Tourism announces 2027 funding programs

Applications are now open for tourism projects focused on creating new experiences and products, enhancing visitor experiences and advancing marketing efforts

Guelph, Ont., November 2, 2026 – The City of Guelph and Destination Marketing Guelph are excited to launch the 2027 Tourism funding programs, featuring the return of the Destination Animation Fund and the new Tourism Marketing Assets and Education Program as part of the Tourism Gaps and Needs Fund.

The Tourism Funding programs are open to eligible not-for-profit organizations, for-profit businesses and registered charities with tourism offerings that attract and enhance visitor experience in Guelph.

Applicants are welcome to apply for any of the programs below;

Destination Animation Fund supports the creation of new tourism offerings in the Guelph. Successful applicants can receive up to $5,000 for new or expanded tourism offerings with a strong visitor appeal.
Tourism Marketing Assets and Education Program supports Guelph tourism operators by providing high‑quality photography, videography, and practical marketing training. The program is designed for tourism operators who want to strengthen their visibility, refresh their marketing assets, and learn how to reach new audiences through effective marketing campaign development. Guelph Tourism will be partnering with Dilettante Hospitality and Andrew Goodwin Photography to deliver the program.

“Tourism continues to play an important role in Guelph’s economy,” said Stacey Laughlin, manager of Tourism and Destination Development. “The 2027 programs will help organizations strengthen their offerings, market to reach new audiences, and build experiences that support long‑term sector growth.”

How to apply

Applications close November 28, 2026 for 2027 applications. Eligible organizations are encouraged to apply by visiting Tourism funding programs – City of Guelph.

Building on past success

The 2027 funding programs build on the significant progress Guelph Tourism has made in recent years. The 2025 Guelph Tourism Impact Report showcases growing visitor interest, strengthened tourism capacity, and enhanced visitor services. Key achievements include:

The 2025 Masters Grand Slam of Curling attracting more than 20,000 visitors and generating 11 million broadcast impressions through event sponsorship and national television exposure for the Guelph: Gather Here brand
Guelph Tourism’s digital marketing efforts produced over 12 million paid media impressions, 8 million Meta platform impressions, and 264,000 website views from 139,000 new users
Investing $106,000 in 30 local tourism projects and events, supporting new visitor experiences, festivals, and tourism businesses across the city.

“Our digital reach expanded substantially throughout 2025 and 2026, driven by the products offered by Guelphs tourism operators and the growing strength of the Guelph: Gather Here brand,” said Hilary McCann, Executive Director of Destination Marketing Guelph. “The 2027 funding programs will support operators in elevating their marketing assets and continuing to build experiences that connect with visitors.”

To read the full Guelph Tourism Impact Report 2025: Gathering Momentum Report and visit gatheringuelph.com.