Provincial funding helping boost local economies and support athletes
The Ontario government is investing almost $1.5 million through its 2022-23 Sport Hosting Program – Intake I to support 15 national and five international amateur sport events in Ontario. These events will help boost local economies, increase tourism and help athletes train and develop their skills right here at home.
“Ontario is one of the best places in the world to be an athlete and play sports. From modern arenas and fields to exceptional coaches, Ontario residents can enjoy sports and recreation at all levels and abilities,” said Lisa MacLeod, Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries. “Our government is proud to support organizations in hosting national and international amateur sport events, which will bring excitement back to Ontario communities and contribute to the province’s economic and social recovery.”
The 20 Sport Hosting events receiving support are expected to generate more than $10 million in economic activity for Ontario and local communities and will feature over 4,000 amateur athletes from across Canada and around the world. Ontario is committed to investing in the sport sector to support and stabilize communities as the province continues its recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ontario’s investment in sport is part of the province’s commitment to fueling its double bottom line: providing athletes, residents and visitors with the opportunity to experience the best of the world in one province, as well as supporting the economic well-being of local communities by attracting visitors and creating local jobs.
Quick Facts
- Ontario’s Sport Hosting Program is designed to help bring national and international amateur sport events to the province by funding a variety of winter and summer sport competitions.
- The government is now accepting applications for the 2022-23 Sport Hosting Program – Intake II, for events with start dates between November 2022 and July 2024. The deadline for applications is July 11, 2022.
- In addition to funding the 2022-23 program Intake I, the Ontario government has recently committed over $2 million for up to 43 events, which includes the funding commitment for the 2020-21 and 2021-22 program intakes.
- Since launching the renewed program in December 2015, the Ontario Sport Hosting Program has invested over $7 million to support 95 events that have generated approximately $78 million in economic activity in the province.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
