Are you a tourism operator, community organization, or local municipality looking to create new festivals or events that attract visitors from outside the region? As Middlesex County’s Destination Marketing Organization (DMO), Visit Middlesex is offering the Visit Middlesex Tourism Initiative Sponsorship to support partnerships that drive visitation, increase regional awareness, and generate economic benefits for local businesses.
This sponsorship is designed to help tourism partners develop new or enhanced experiences that bring new visitors into Middlesex County and contribute to the broader community. Events intended solely for local audiences, or initiatives that support only one business, are not eligible. Sponsorships are awarded on a case-by-case basis and are not intended to be an ongoing source of funding.
Funding Overview
Sponsorship funding may cover up to 50% of eligible cash expenses, to a maximum of $2,500 per project
Total sponsorship per operator or organization is capped at $5,000 per year
Only one sponsorship per project per year will be allocated
Applications are reviewed and approved on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to available budget
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Eligible applicants include tourism operators, community organizations, and local municipalities directly engaged in tourism initiatives
Initiatives must take place within Middlesex County
Projects must involve collaboration between local Middlesex County partners and demonstrate a positive impact on the wider community
Applicants must be able to track visitation, such as through ticket sales, registrations, or surveys
Applications must be submitted at least 45 days prior to the project start date
Eligible expenses must be incurred after January 1, 2026
Approved funds must be fully expended before the project’s completion date and no later than December 14, 2026
A final report and supporting documentation must be submitted within 30 days of the event’s conclusion or by December 14, 2026, whichever comes first
Sponsorship Categories
Applicants must apply under one of the following tiers. Funding will not exceed 50% of eligible expenses:
Tier 1: Sponsorship – Up to $500
For new or existing events or initiatives.
Post-event requirements include an invoice and completion of a short online results survey.
Tier 2: Existing Events – $501 to $1,000
For established or recurring events. Justification is required as part of the application.
Post-event requirements include an invoice, proof of eligible expenses being reimbursed, and completion of a final report and claim.
Tier 3: New Events – $1,001 to $2,500
For new events or initiatives.
Post-event requirements include an invoice, proof of eligible expenses for reimbursement, and completion of a final report and claim.
Ineligible Costs
Funding cannot be used for taxes (including HST), staff wages or salaries, capital asset purchases, administrative or board fees, or payments to family members or affiliated companies.
How to Apply
Applicants must complete the official application form and submit it, along with any draft promotional materials, to info@visitmiddlesex.ca. Approval or denial of applications is at the sole discretion of the County of Middlesex Department of Economic Development and Tourism and is based on project merit and available funding at the time of submission.
By working together to attract new visitors and create memorable experiences, we can continue to strengthen Middlesex County as a vibrant and welcoming tourism destination.