Last call to “spark” your creative tourism ideas

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City of Vaughan
Apply for Vaughan’s Spark program by Nov. 24


Apply for the Vaughan “Spark” Mentorship and Grant Program, in partnership with the Tourism Innovation Lab, to share your new and creative ideas with Tourism Vaughan! Participants will have the opportunity to pitch a tourism-focused proposal for the chance to turn it into a reality. 

Eligible applicants for the program include:

  • individuals 18 years or older who live in the city of Vaughan.
  • Vaughan-based small businesses (up to 10 full-time, year-round employees).
  • Vaughan-based non-profit organizations (up to 10 full-time, year-round employees). 

To apply, submit a written application (1,000 words maximum) and a one-minute video to apply@tourisminnovation.ca by the end of day on Thursday, Nov. 24. Be sure to include “Vaughan” in the subject line to be eligible for the selection process. 

The selection process will include:

  • a review by a jury, including local and provincial tourism leaders and innovators.
  • a Finalists’ Pitch Session (a take on a tourism Dragons’ Den) on Thursday, Dec. 15 from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. 

Up to three applicants will be selected as winners and receive the mentorship and grant offered through the program. 

The program contributes to the destination product development pillar of the Council-approved Vaughan Destination Master Plan and supports Vaughan’s tourism community by providing:

  • a three-month tourism industry mentorship.
  • a $3,000 grant for the top three pitches selected through the program.
  • additional partner support and resources.
  • access to a support network of tourism innovators, entrepreneurs and leaders. 

Vaughan is the first city in the Greater Toronto Area to launch a “Spark” Mentorship and Grant Program with the Tourism Innovation Lab.

The Tourism Vaughan Corporation is the official destination development organization for the city of Vaughan with the mission to enhance Vaughan as a destination for tourists and business travellers. This aligns with the City’s commitment to support the tourism and accommodation industry, which falls under the Economic Prosperity, Investment and Social Capital priority in the Council-approved 2018-2022 Term of Council Service Excellence Strategic Plan. Stay informed on the City of Vaughan’s latest tourism, business resources and initiatives by signing up for the Economic Development department’s eNewsletters at vaughanbusiness.ca/enewsletters.

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