Tourism Oxford, Community Futures Oxford and Rural Oxford Economic Development Corporation are pleased to announce the recipients of the 2024 Tourism Innovation Grant. Following a thorough review and scoring process, five local businesses were selected as finalists. The finalists met with an objective judging panel on March 18 via Zoom to present their projects and answer questions. The judges had the tough job of selecting three of the five to each receive grants of $3,000 to help develop and complete a new tourism project in 2024.
Applications were reviewed based on several criteria including creativity, ability to develop, marketing skills, DEI, financial and community impact and market demand.
We are pleased to announce the recipients of the 2024 Tourism Innovation Grants.
Thames River Melon Ltd – to create an educational experience around beekeeping, honey and pollinators. | The Thoughtful Artisan – to give participants the opportunity to work with natural fibre yarns and learn about the benefits over acrylics, drawing from a 200km radius. | Habitual Chocolate – to provide education and experience around creating a chocolate bark with ingredients from local producers. |
When combined, the three award-winning projects will create more than four local jobs, support 21 local suppliers, welcome many visitors in 2024, while investing more than $17,000 into the Oxford County economy.
“Throughout the process, what was most apparent was the passion and creativity that Oxford County businesses share in providing unique and engaging experiences for visitors,” said Janet Wakutz, CED Program Coordinator, Community Futures Oxford. “We are excited to see these projects in action in the near future!”