Explorers’ Edge 2026/2027 Partnership Program

By jennifer
February 27, 2026

Co-Invest. Collaborate. Create Regional Impact.
Applications open February 27, 2026 | Deadline March 27, 2025 @5.00 pm

The Explorers’ Edge Partnership Program is a strategic co-investment opportunity designed to support tourism planning, marketing, product development, and the creation of bookable, high-quality visitor experiences across the region.

We will be applying the defined application intake period, allowing Explorers’ Edge to review all submissions collectively and ensure funding is allocated strategically to projects that deliver the greatest regional impact.

Of note:  If partnership funds are not fully allocated during the intake period a second intake will happen in Fall 2026 and again in Winter 2027 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 2026/27 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.

Application Intake & Review

New or evolving tourism products — particularly those supported by clear, measurable plans — will be prioritized along with sustainable practises. The Partnership Program is competitive, and demand for funding exceeds availability. We welcome applications from all eligible businesses and organizations.

Explorers’ Edge wants to see businesses continue to evolve, to learn from previous projects supported by Explorers’ Edge and ultimately, stand on their own, therefore Explorers’ Edge may not support applications that are identical year over year.

Please note:
If partnership funds are not fully allocated during the March – April intake period, a second intake may occur in Fall 2026, and again in Winter 2027 if funding remains available.

What We Fund: Program Streams

Product & Experience Development.  Support large-scale tourism initiatives including:

  1. Experience Creation and Travel Co Integration
    • Pilot projects aligned with the Explorers’ Edge Travel Co
    • Sustainability, Inclusivity & Accessible Experiences and enhancements
    • New or enhanced visitor experiences
  2. Communication, Marketing & Advertising Campaigns (examples; Trade Shows, Direct Marketing campaigns and social media campaigns, wayfinding and signage projects)
  3. Image Development
  4. Workforce development and training
  5. Research and product validation

New for 2026:

Experience Creation & Travel Co Integration

As part of the launch of the Explorers’ Edge Travel Co, the 2026 Partnership Program places a strong emphasis on experience development and collaboration. Priority will be given to projects that:

  • Pilot new or evolving visitor experiences
  • Package or bundle experiences across multiple operators
  • Test bookable products that can be incorporated into the Explorers’ Edge Travel Co
  • Demonstrate collaboration between businesses, operators, or communities
  • Align with co-investment models that grow regional value, not just individual promotion

Successful projects may be supported not only through funding, but also through experience design guidance, testing, and potential integration opportunities. Upon completion of the partnership, a consultation with Explorers’ Edge Travel Company will be coordinated to evaluate the success of the experience and explore opportunities for integration into regional sales and distribution channels.

Sustainability, Inclusivity & Accessible Experiences / Enhancements

The Explorers’ Edge supports Inclusivity & Accessible Experiences as a dedicated program pillar. This pillar supports projects that remove barriers to participation and create welcoming, respectful, and accessible experiences for visitors of all abilities, backgrounds, and identities.

Funded initiatives may focus on accessible experience design, inclusive storytelling and marketing, culturally respectful partnerships, and operational practices that ensure visitors feel represented, safe, and welcome. By embedding inclusivity into experience development, this stream strengthens the region’s appeal, broadens market reach, and ensures tourism growth benefits both visitors and communities.

The Explorers’ Edge Partnership Program supports eco-friendly initiatives that promote responsible travel and protect the region’s natural environments. Through collaboration and co-investment, the program encourages partners to integrate sustainability into visitor experiences and operations.

Supported initiatives may include low-impact outdoor experiences, sustainable transportation, waste and energy reduction practices, and visitor education that fosters environmental stewardship. This stream aims to encourage responsible visitation, extend stays, and ensure the long-term health and resilience of the destination.

Sustainability Declarations

The 2026/2027 program will introduce am even stronger focus on sustainability, inclusivity, and Truth and Reconciliation. As part of the application process, participants will be asked to demonstrate their commitment to these principles by referencing initiatives such as the District of Muskoka Climate Hero program, the GreenStep Sustainable Tourism Declaration, the Rainbow Registry for 2SLGBTQi+ inclusivity, and Indigenous-led initiatives that honor the principles of Truth and Reconciliation. This new requirement reflects Explorers’ Edge’s ongoing dedication to responsible tourism development, ensuring that funded projects not only support economic growth and visitor experiences but also foster environmental stewardship, community well-being, cultural respect, and welcoming, inclusive spaces for all.

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: February 27, 2026 – March 27, 2026 @ 5.00pm
  • Project Completion Deadline: March 31, 2027
  • 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

  1. Review the Program Guidelines Click Here
  2. Submit your application by March 27, 2027 @5.00pm.
  3. Contact us to discuss your project idea, application and confirm eligibility.
  4. If approved, sign a Memorandum of Understanding outlining deliverables and timelines.
  5. Complete your project with support from Explorers’ Edge and approved vendors.
  6. Submit your final report within 30 days of project completion.

Start Your Application

  • Experience Creation & Travel Company 26/27 Click here
  • Communication, Marketing & Advertising 26/2 Click here
  • Partnership Image Development 26/27 Click here
  • Workforce development and training 26/27 Click here
  • Research & Product Validation 26/27 Click here

Additional Resources

Explorers_Edge_2026_2027_Partnership_Program_ FINALDownload

Questions?

We’re here to help you craft impactful tourism projects.

Contact: Jennifer Montpetit Partnership Manager – [email protected]