Ontario Tourism Innovation Lab has launched a program aimed at sparking and supporting innovative tourism ideas in Sarnia-Lambton.
Program Lead Justin Lafontaine said the "Spark" Mentorships and Grants Program is all about finding and sparking new tourism ideas in different regions around the province.
"Through the review process, we'll select applicants to receive a three thousand dollar start-up grant and we match them with a tourism mentor to provide support," said Lafontaine.
Three grants will be awarded locally, with one targeted specifically to ideas that would enhance tourism along the waterfront.
"Events, festivals that happen along the waterfront and bring more people to the waterfront, whether it's arts or music or any kind of other type of festival, transportation services, like cycle tourists, taxi services with bike racks onboard, e-bike tours or services."
Lafontaine said collaboration can be the route to an innovative idea.
"I gave an example of a zoo that was looking for a different way to reimagine its offerings, grow its market, maybe get a higher profile and they partnered with a cycling group and they created a jungle ride event. That was a great partnership. Two very different types of organizations, coming together and creating a really innovative and super cool tourism experience," he said.
Applications, from individuals, small businesses and non-profit organizations in Sarnia-Lambton, are being accepted until January 15.
For more details, or to apply, go to tourisminnovation.ca/sarnialambton.