Between 20 to 30 communities in Northern Ontario will benefit from a coordinated program designed to help travelers in their region find their way to community tourism attractions and amenities thanks to a $390,000 investment from the Government of Canada. The initiative, which is being implemented by Tourism Northern Ontario (TNO), a regional not-for-profit regional tourism organization, is designed to increase interest in the region’s attractions and encourage tourists to spend more time in Northern Ontario.
The funding was announced today by Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Sault Ste. Marie, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for FedNor, the Government of Canada’s economic development organization for Northern Ontario.
The three-year funding will enable TNO to guide the development of regional wayfinding plans, as well as design, produce and install up to 1500 bilingual tourism way-finding signs across Northern Ontario.
“The Government of Canada is proud to invest in strategic initiatives that strengthen the tourism sector, feature community assets, and enhance business development and growth. The funding announced today will help increase the profitability of tourism and hospitality businesses Northern Ontario by enabling visitors to more easily discover the region’s attractions.” – The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor
“I am proud to be part of a government that is providing the tourism industry with the tools it needs to grow and succeed. Today’s announcement will help fuel the regional economy by attracting visitors and encouraging them to extend their stays in Northern Ontario, which will contribute to the profitability of hotels, restaurants and shops, and generate jobs.” – Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie
“We would like the acknowledge the Government of Canada’s support and look forward to the results that this initiative will deliver for the people, businesses and communities of Northern Ontario. By putting Northern Ontario attractions on the map, so to speak, we expect to increase tourism visitation and spending through participation in additional activities.” – David MacLachlan, Executive Director, Tourism Northern Ontario
