Ontario Supporting Festivals in Mississauga

MISSISSAUGA – Ontario is investing $19.5 million to support festival and event organizers with carrying out innovative, in-person experiences that connect people with their communities and increase tourism spending. Experience Ontario 2023 program funding will support events in Mississauga, and enable recipient organizations to expand programming to draw visitors who will stay longer in local accommodations, eat in restaurants, shop at local retailers, and support local businesses.

“Our government understands the importance of tourism and culture to Ontario’s economic success. These sectors bring our communities to life,” said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. “Our government’s support for festivals and events through the Experience Ontario program demonstrates that we are supporting organizations across the province that are creating new and innovative opportunities to bring Ontarians together.”

Rudy Cuzzetto, MPP for Mississauga–Lakeshore, announced today that the following local organizations are receiving funding support:

  • $21,840 for Mississauga Italfest Inc., to support Mississauga ITALFEST 2023; and
  • $46,080 for the MonstrARTity Creative Community, to support the #BollywoodMonster Mashup.

Experience Ontario is a provincial grant program that supports festivals and events that motivate visitors to rediscover Ontario, while connecting people with local experiences and increasing visitor spending. The 2023 program is providing $19.5 million in support to over 280 festivals and events across the province.

“The festival and event industry plays a vital role in strengthening local economies in communities throughout the province,” said Cuzzetto. “I am pleased that we are supporting event organizers right here at home who are creating innovative experiences that help people engage with their communities while creating jobs and boosting the local economy.”

MPP Rudy Cuzzetto congratulates Mississauga Italfest President Patti Jannetta-Baker on their Experience Ontario grant in 2023.

QUICK FACTS

Tourism is a key economic driver in Ontario, supporting approximately 395,000 jobs and generating over $38 billion in spending.