Woolwich Launches Two New Tourism Funding Streams to Support Tourism Projects and Programs

Woolwich, ON – The Township of Woolwich is excited to announce the launch of two new tourism funding streams aimed at enhancing visitor experience and supporting the local tourism economy: The Woolwich Way – Destination Development Fund and The Woolwich Way – Marketing Material Fund. Both funds are now accepting applications from eligible businesses and organizations within the Township from Tuesday, August 5 to Tuesday, August 19, 2025.

Funded through the Township’s share of the Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT), these programs aim to empower tourism operators, event organizers, and community champions to create fresh, innovative experiences that reflect the 'Woolwich Way' with a focus on sustainability, accessibility, diversity, and regional collaboration.

The Woolwich Way – Destination Development Fund

Designed to strengthen and diversify Woolwich’s tourism experiences, the Destination Development Fund offers grants of up to $4,000 to support new or enhanced tourism products, such as walking tours, festivals, culinary experiences, or cultural programming. A minimum of 15% matching contribution is required from applicants.

Eligible projects must:

• Be achievable within the calendar year of the year the fund is applied for 
• Reach 30% visitor demographics 
• Develop or enhance tourism products 

The Woolwich Way – Marketing Material Fund

The Marketing Material Fund provides up to $1,500 in funding (with a 50% matching requirement) to support the creation or updating of marketing materials that promote Woolwich’s tourism experiences. Examples include visitor maps, event-based materials, or signage that highlights attractions across the township.

Eligible projects must:

• Be achievable within the calendar year of the year the fund is applied for 
• Develop or enhance tourism products
• Create new marketing materials OR update previously used marketing materials
• Have a visitor as the primary target audience for the specific material

“These new funding streams are an exciting step forward in promoting tourism the Woolwich Way, by encouraging innovation, collaboration, and pride in place,” said Mayor Sandy Shantz. “Local tourism plays a vital role in our economy and community identity, and I’m proud that we’re supporting the people and organizations who bring these experiences to life.”

“These funding streams reflect our commitment to making Woolwich a leading tourism destination in Ontario,” said Kurtis Wells, Economic Development and Tourism Officer. “By supporting local businesses and organizations to develop meaningful visitor experiences and materials, we are investing in the long-term vitality of the local tourism sector.”

How to Apply

Applications for both programs open August 5, 2025 and must be submitted by August 19, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. EST.

Full application guides, eligibility criteria, and application forms are available online at The Woolwich Way – Tourism Funding Streams page.

For more information on the MAT Administration Policy and MAT programs, please visit the Woolwich MAT page.

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Media contacts:

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

For more information, contact:

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