Explorers’ Edge Fiscal 25/26 Partnership Program

By james

May 21, 2025

Co-Invest. Collaborate. Create Regional Impact.
Applications open May 21, 2025 | Deadline June 6, 2025 @5.00 pm

This year, we’re adopting an application intake period which provides Explorers’ Edge with the opportunity to review all submissions collectively, ensuring a strategic allocation of funding to support tourism planning, marketing, and development across our region.

New product or evolving tourism product, projects that show they’re working to new product – using clear and measurable plans – will be prioritized in the application review process. The Partnership Program application process is competitive, and many people apply for the available funds. We welcome applications from all eligible businesses and organizations.

Of note: If partnership funds are not fully allocated during the May – June intake period a second intake will happen in Fall 2025 and again in Winter 2026 if funds still continue to remain unallocated. Additionally: At any time if you have an idea, would like to enquire about the partnership program or require further information our team would love to hear from you – simply contact [email protected]

Program Overview

The Explorers’ Edge 2025/26 Partnership Program is a strategic co-investment opportunity designed to amplify tourism development in the region. We match stakeholder contributions to support initiatives that drive visitation, enhance experiences, promote regenerative tourism, and foster workforce and product innovation.

Important: This program is not a grant. It is a shared-delivery initiative, subject to approval of our Transfer Payment Agreement with the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, Board of Directors and Senior Staff.

What We Fund: Program Streams

Choose from a range of targeted streams tailored to industry needs:

Product & Experience Development
Funds large-scale tourism projects, including product/experience development, research, and workforce initiatives to enhance regional tourism offerings.
Image Development
Through our partnership using our Agency of Record (AOR), Explorers’ Edge will partner on the development of compelling visual content—including custom photo and video assets—to support tourism operators in marketing their businesses and telling their unique stories
Marketing & Advertising Campaigns
(Limited number available and must include multiple tourism businesses)
Run campaigns with our AOR.
Social Media Advertising
(Great for individual business owners)
Agency supported social media campaigns on Meta platforms.
Wayfinding & Signage Projects
Plan and install signage to improve large-scale navigation throughout the region.
Trade Show Support
Partial reimbursement of booth costs to showcase at relevant trade shows

Program Benefits

Matching Investment
Leverage Explorers’ Edge funds to offset the costs associated with the partnership – up to 50%.
Expert Guidance
Collaborate with professionals to ensure strategic alignment and quality execution.
Regional Focus
Projects must support tourism within the district of Muskoka, Algonquin Park, Almaguin Highlands, Loring-Restoule, South Algonquin and the district of Parry Sound.
Flexible Support
Multiple streams for marketing, product development, workforce support, and infrastructure.

Who Can Apply

Eligible applicants include:

Tourism operators (private and non-profit)
DMOs and tourism associations
Municipalities and Indigenous communities
Economic development offices

Applicants must:

Be legally registered in Ontario
Operate within the Explorers’ Edge region
Demonstrate the ability to co-invest (cash match required)
Have a current online presence and public-facing tourism offering

Key Dates & Requirements

Application Period: May 21, 2025 – June 6, 2025 @ 5.00pm
Project Completion Deadline: March 31, 2026
Partner Match: Must be cash only (no in-kind or government program stacking)

Please note: Applicants are required to contact Explorers’ Edge staff in advance to confirm project eligibility and alignment with strategic priorities.

Of note: The application process is competitive, and funds are limited. Thoughtful planning of your project ensures it aligns with Explorers’ Edge strategic priorities and enhances your chances of approval. Explorers’ Edge reserves the right to limit the number of programs/funds that one stakeholder may receive per year.

Data Collection & Reporting Requirements

There are project-specific metrics that partners will be required to track and report on as part of their final partner report. These will vary based on project type and objectives.

We also encourage all partners to track broader tourism metrics to support data-informed decision-making. Examples include visitation numbers, visitor origin, engagement rates, workforce outcomes, and sustainability progress.

Key Requirements:

Website Analytics Monitoring:
All partners must have Google Analytics 4 (GA4) installed on their website. Explorers’ Edge will coordinate with its Agency of Record (AOR) to monitor web traffic and engagement metrics related to the funded initiative.

How to Apply

Review the Program Guidelines Click Here
Review 2025/26 Business and Operational Plan Click Here
Submit your application by June 6, 2025 @5.00pm.
Contact us to discuss your project idea, application and confirm eligibility.
If approved, sign a Memorandum of Understanding outlining deliverables and timelines.
Complete your project with support from Explorers’ Edge and approved vendors.
Submit your final report within 30 days of project completion.