CENTRE WELLINGTON – Based on success to date and enthusiasm from the community to continue the program, Elora and Fergus Tourism, The Township of Centre Wellington, and Regional Tourism Organization 4 (RTO4) have announced the re-launch of the Destination Animation Strategic Co-Investment Project to enable Elora and Fergus businesses, organizations, and tourism stakeholders to create or enhance experiences for both visitors and residents.
The Destination Animation Strategic Co-Investment Project, first launched in 2017, supports destination experiential development on a matched basis.
There will be an estimated $10,000 available for proposals, and individual applications may be for any amount between $500 and $5,000.
The Destination Animation Strategic Co-Investment Project Selection Committee will review and award the proposals based on the following criteria:
– ability to highlight Elora and Fergus’s DNA;
– level of social media sharing and feasibility;
– potential to attract out-of-town visitors, and overall economic benefit to Elora and Fergus; and
– collaboration with other tourism stakeholders.
Projects must be new or enhanced experiences and funds awarded cannot be applied toward capital or regular operational expenses.
The deadline for applications is May 2. As the budget allows, applications received after the deadline will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, however there is no guarantee resources will be available after the initial round, officials say.
“We are excited to be entering our fifth year of offering such a creative and innovative program to assist in the animation of Centre Wellington,” said Deb Dalziel, tourism and destination coordinator.
“Over the past five years an incredible host of events have benefited from these start-up funds, including Twilight in Templin, Wizards Way at Fergus’s Medieval Faire, Zombie Walk during Monster Month and the Follow the Flock Social media Campaign at the Elora Centre for the Arts.”
For information, guidelines and an application visit centrewellington.ca/tourismresources. Applicants are encouraged to discuss their project, questions and eligibility prior to applying.
