Summer Tourism Experience Program

Applications open: Deadline January 15

In recognition of the important work local Chambers of Commerce provide in visitor information services,the Kawartha Lakes Summer Tourism Experience Program supports Chambers of Commerce in Kawartha Lakes enhance the visitor experience across the municipality. The program will provide up to $15,000 for activities that advance community-based visitor information services and meet the program objectives.

Application Form

Program Guidelines

2025 Summer Tourism Experience Program Guidelines

Program goals

  • Welcome visitors to Kawartha Lakes (be physically out in the community where tourists gather); 

  • Encourage visitors to increase their length of stay in Kawartha Lakes by supporting on the ground trip planning and encourage visitation to multiple tourism assets; 

  • Provide activities or interactions that enhance the visitors experience while in Kawartha Lakes; and, 

  • Engage local businesses in activities to support the visitor experience and support long term programming (e.g. Kawartha Lakes Business Count) 

It is anticipated that these funds will be used to support the hiring of Summer Students. 

Eligible organizations

Chambers of Commerce in Kawartha Lakes

Program timelines

Milestone

Date
Application

January 15, 2026
Interim Report

August 1, 2026
Final Report

December 31, 2026

Projects should focus on the Summer tourism season, however, depending on the project scope, projects may run until December 31, 2026.  

Application process

Chambers of Commerce in Kawartha Lakes may submit a detailed project proposal to the municipality. The proposal must include: 

  1. An overview of how the funds will be used (include alignment to the Summer Tourism Experience Program Objectives).
  2. Explain how this funding will improve the visitor experience beyond what is currently planned for the summer season.
  3. Provide a description of their service area and how their program will reach their boarder service area.
  4. Describe the desired outcomes of their project.
  5. Complete project activities and budget sheet.  

Changes to project plans must be agreed upon with the municipality. 

Economic Development Officer - Community

Connect with Carlie Arbour

Telephone: 705-324-9411 extension 1396
Toll Free: 1-866-397-6673
Email Carlie

Contact Us

Kawartha Lakes 
P.O. Box 9000, 26 Francis Street
Lindsay, ON, K9V 5R8
Telephone: 705-324-9411
Toll free at 1-888-822-2225
After-hours emergencies: 1-877-885-7337