Woolwich Launches 2026 Tourism Funding to Support Visitor Experiences

Woolwich, ON – The Township of Woolwich is pleased to announce the return of The Woolwich Way Tourism Funding Streams for 2026, supporting initiatives that enhance visitor experiences and strengthen the local tourism sector.

Two funding opportunities are now open to eligible businesses and organizations: The Woolwich Way - Destination Development Fund and The Woolwich Way - Marketing Material Fund. Applications will be accepted from April 27 to May 18, 2026.

Funded through the Township’s share of the Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT), these programs are designed to support tourism operators, event organizers, and community partners in delivering engaging, high-quality visitor experiences. Projects are encouraged to align with Woolwich’s core values, including sustainability, accessibility, diversity, and regional collaboration.

To support broader participation, applicants who received funding in 2025 are not eligible to apply to the same funding stream in 2026. However, they may apply to the alternate stream if eligible. Previous recipients may reapply to the same stream in 2027, provided their project demonstrates meaningful enhancements or clear differences.

The Woolwich Way – Destination Development Fund

This fund supports the creation and enhancement of tourism experiences across the Township, with grants of up to $4,000 available. Eligible initiatives may include festivals, guided tours, culinary experiences, or cultural programming, among others. Applicants must contribute a minimum of 15% in matching funds.

Eligible projects must:

• Be completed within the 2026 calendar year
• Demonstrate a minimum of 30% visitor-based audience
•  Introduce new or enhanced tourism experiences

“Woolwich continues to grow as a destination known for its unique experiences, strong sense of community, and rural charm,” said Mayor Sandy Shantz. “These funding streams empower local businesses and organizations to create and promote experiences that attract visitors while reflecting the values that make Woolwich special.”

The Woolwich Way – Marketing Material Fund

This fund provides up to $1,500 to assist with the development or refresh of marketing materials that promote Woolwich as a destination. A 50% matching contribution is required. Eligible materials may include visitor guides, event promotions, maps, or interpretive signage, among others that highlights local attractions or groupings of experiences.

Eligible projects must:

•  Be completed within the 2026 calendar year
• Support or enhance tourism offerings
• Involve the creation of new materials or updates to existing asset
• Target visitors as the primary audience 

“These funding streams reflect our continued commitment to growing Woolwich as a vibrant and welcoming destination,” said Kurtis Wells, Economic Development and Tourism Officer. “By investing in both experience development and strong promotional tools, we are supporting local partners in building a resilient and dynamic tourism economy.”

How to Apply

• Applications for both funding streams open April 27, 2026 and close May 18, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. EST.
• Detailed program guidelines, eligibility requirements, and application forms are available on The Woolwich Way – Tourism Funding Streams webpage.

For more information about the Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) and related programs, please visit the Township of Woolwich MAT webpage.

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Media contacts:

Rae Ann Bauman, Corporate Communications
Phone: 519-669-6021
communications@woolwich.ca

For more information, contact:

Kurtis Wells, Economic Development and Tourism Officer
Phone: 519-669-6020 
kwells@woolwich.ca