County accepting applications for its 2026 Experience Simcoe County Partnership Fund

Midhurst/January 12, 2026 – The County of Simcoe is now accepting applications for its 2026 Experience Simcoe County Partnership Fund. This year, County Council has allocated $400,000 to fund tourism-focused and culture-driven initiatives that focus on attracting visitors to the region.

The 2026 funding will support and enhance tourism offerings across Simcoe County by:

• Investing in initiatives that increase awareness and appreciation of, and access to, Simcoe County’s diverse tourism, cultural, and recreation offerings.
• Fostering partnerships and collaboration among tourism stakeholders, municipalities, and organizations to strengthen the regional tourism ecosystem.
• Supporting innovative, inclusive, and accessible programming that improves the quality and appeal of visitor experiences.
• Contributing to the County’s overall economic health by stimulating tourism-related spending and promoting Simcoe County as a desirable destination.
• Aligning funded projects with the Experience Simcoe County work plan and strategic priorities, including destination marketing, product development, and workforce development.
• Enhancing tourism experiences that promote accessibility, inclusivity, and engagement for older adults, fostering social connection, active living, and lifelong learning within the community.

“Tourism and culture are vital to Simcoe County’s identity and economy,” said Warden Basil Clarke. “Through the Experience Simcoe County Partnership Fund, we’re proud to support creative, collaborative initiatives that showcase the best of our region, attract visitors, and strengthen our communities. This program is about investing in experiences that make Simcoe County a destination of choice for all.”

Up to $10,000 in funding is available for marketing, public art and beautification, trails and cycling infrastructure, and workforce development initiatives, while up to $20,000 can be requested for signage projects. Eligible organizations may submit a maximum of one application for funding by the Friday, February 13 deadline.

All applications are reviewed by the County of Simcoe’s Grant Task Force, which consists of appointed members of County Council and is supported by County staff. Funding will be distributed amongst successful applicants based on their alignment with the program’s requirements and objectives, and the project’s overall benefit to the entire region.

Program details and applications guidelines can be found at experience.simcoe.ca/resources/grant.

Prospective applicants can contact Tourism Simcoe County staff by email at tourism@simcoe.ca with any questions.

About the County of Simcoe

County of Simcoe is composed of 16 member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at simcoe.ca. 

Contacts

Brandon Maron
Public Relations Consultant
County of Simcoe, Service Simcoe Department
705-903-7882 (mobile)
Brandon.Maron@simcoe.ca

Collin Matanowitsch
Manager, Public Relations
County of Simcoe, Service Simcoe Department
705-734-8386 (mobile)
Collin.Matanowitsch@simcoe.ca 

Received by the Township of Severn from the County of Simcoe via email on January 12, 2026.