“Spark” Mentorship & Grant Program
Turn Your Accessible Tourism Idea Into Reality
$3,000 in funding. A mentor matched to your business. One application.
If you require assistance with or accommodations for the application, please contact [email protected]
Aric Fishman, Outdoor Skills and Thrills, Northern Ontario "Spark" Winner 2021
Millions of people travel to experience Northern Ontario's lakes, trails, and wilderness every year. But for travelers with disabilities, older visitors, and families needing accommodations, too many of those experiences simply aren't built for them; the trail isn't rated, the dock isn't reachable, or the ….
People with disabilities in Canada represent an estimated $55 billion a year in discretionary spending. This is a large group of visitors looking for businesses and destinations that make the effort to welcome them.
This year’s “Spark” program is dedicated entirely to closing the accessibility gap in Northern Ontario.
If you've got an idea that makes travel in Northern Ontario more accessible this program was built for you.
If your idea makes the region meaningfully more accessible, we want to give you the funding and guidance to take the next step. Apply now for the Northern Ontario Accessible “Spark” Program to get started.
What Kind of Ideas Qualify?
Your idea can be new, or it can be an accessibility upgrade to something you already offer, which can involve:
- An experience (including tours, sports, events, and more)
- Accommodations
- Dining
- Retail
- Physical or mobility access
- Sensory or cognitive support
- A better way for visitors to book, navigate, or enjoy an existing experience
The Key Requirement Is Simple
Accessibility and inclusion must be at the centre of the idea.
Eligibility:
Want to prepare before you apply?
Download the “Spark” Application Quick-Start Guide
Get It Here
$3,000 and Expert Guidance
$3,000 Funding
Financial support to move your idea from concept to reality. How you use it is your choice: materials, marketing, permits, and beyond!
A Matched Mentor
“Spark” pairs you with an industry expert suited to your specific business, not a generic advisor.
Community
Become part of a nation-wide network of tourism organizations, entrepreneurs, and “Spark” winners.
What "Spark" Winners Say
The mentorship was amazing — being able to talk to industry-specific leaders and other women in the area who are thriving in it. The financing was essential to get a spot on the main beach and start participating in the community.
— iSUP Saugeen, 2022 Bruce County "Spark" Winner
The grant was really the "Spark" for moving into the shoulder season — I was able to winterize one of our bunkies and go from summer-only to open year-round.
— Dreamers Writing Farm, 2019 Bruce County "Spark" Winner
Four Steps
Apply
Sept 14–Oct 29. Tell us your idea.
Review
Our team reviews every application.
Pitch
Finalists pitch live on November 19.
Win
1 winner receives $3,000 and a matched mentor.
Fast, Easy Application
Part A
6 questions about you
Part B
10 questions about your idea
Part C
A 60-second unedited video
After initial applications are reviewed by our jury, a shortlist of selected finalists will have the opportunity to pitch their idea to a panel of judges.
Learn more about the application and pitch process in the “Spark” Application Quick-Start Guide
Get It HereFrequently Asked Questions
Download the Quick Start Guide!
We designed this guide to take you step-by-step through the application process, as well as point out common reasons why some applications don't make the cut.
Find guidance on answering each application question plus insight into the selection process.
Fill out the info below to get your copy of the 2026 “Spark” Quick-Start Guide.