Happy New Year! A Message from the Executive Director
by sara | January 23, 2025
As we reflect on the past year, we celebrate the many achievements and collaborative successes we’ve shared as an industry. Together, we’ve built a strong foundation that continues to propel Northern Ontario’s tourism sector forward, and we’re excited for what lies ahead.
Looking toward 2025-26, this new year presents another excellent opportunity to maximize our partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Gaming. Thanks to the ongoing support from the ministry, Destination Northern Ontario can significantly enhance its core budget through industry collaborations and funding agreements with both provincial and federal partners. This enables us to invest an additional $5 million annually in tourism programming, benefiting our entire sector. Last year alone, we successfully implemented 38 partnered initiatives, engaging over 83 partners and leveraging the province’s investment three times over, resulting in $1.9 million of partnered activity.
At the same time, we are embarking on a transformative process by developing a long-term Destination Master Plan for our community. This plan will focus on how to sustainably grow tourism and the visitor economy to benefit everyone in the region. We are committed to engaging with all voices across Northern Ontario to create a shared vision for making our region an even better place to live, work, and visit. We invite you to participate in a short survey, with the chance to win a $500 gift basket filled with Northern Ontario goodies. Your input is invaluable, and we look forward to your insights.
In the year ahead, we are committed to pushing the envelope in product quality, visitor experiences, and distinctive marketing campaigns that set Northern Ontario apart on the global stage. Our region, rich in natural resources and breathtaking landscapes, offers unique tourism experiences that are more sought after than ever. With the rising demand for open spaces, fresh air, inclusive communities, and authentic, one-of-a-kind experiences, Northern Ontario is poised for a prosperous tourism season.
None of this would be possible without the dedication and support of our partners. Collaboration is central to our success, and we will continue to work alongside both new and long-standing partners to maximize our collective impact.
As we embark on another year of opportunity and growth, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your continued support in positioning Northern Ontario as a premier destination. Here’s to a new year of success, collaboration, and prosperity in tourism.
Wishing you an inspiring and prosperous year ahead!