If you have an idea that can attract visitors to Ottawa, and you require funding assistance to get your project off the ground, you can apply for the Destination Development Fund.
Ottawa Tourism is committed to investing in strategies to improve Ottawa as a destination for visitors with strategic, project-based funding.
The Destination Development Fund assists Ottawa-based not-for-profit organizations and for-profit businesses in the tourism space. With the goal of developing quality tourism products that stimulate demand for the destination, this will stimulate increased tourism and expenditure, and encourage private sector tourism investment in Ottawa. To date, 85% of tourism products funded are still active in the destination.
This application-based program is designed to encourage and support collaborative tourism development initiatives that align with the following strategic objectives, and that can demonstrate long term benefits to Ottawa and the surrounding region:
For more information on the program’s priority areas and application process, read through the Destination Development Fund Applicant Guide (.pdf) and the Application form (.pdf). For those ready to apply, please reach out to discuss your project.
New experience development project
The 2024 Market expanded by adding 9 additional dates of operation. 25% of survey respondents traveled from outside Ottawa (+9% from previous year). Of these visitors: 66% stayed overnight (a 50% increase). 33% stayed in paid accommodations (hotel, Airbnb, or B&B) – a 24% increase.
Interprovincial zipline development project
In the first year of operations, Interzip zipped over 30,000 participants, from age 7 to 81 across the Ottawa River. Since then, this attraction has been captivating thrillseekers from across Canada and around the world.
Festival Expansion
Expansion of the Performance area included a new “Gold & VIP” addition, designed to offer a better listening experience for audiences. A new stage was also created at Marion Dewar Plaza, Bird's Nest, named after the jazz legend Charlie Parker, which hosted several Canadian and international artists presented free to the public.
Pollinator Sanctuary
DDF supported the development of the Pollinator Sanctuary which invites tourists and residents to learn about bees and butterflies, the plants that support them, and their importance to the ecosystem. Gees Bees has welcomed over 400 people/weekend to learn about bees.
Indigenous Tourism site development
In first year of operations, Beandigen featured 25 artisans in their shop, directly supporting the local artisan economy. 20% of Beandigen’s customer in 2021 were Indigenous.
Festival Expansion
In 2022, DDF supported new expansion of Capital Pride generating over 10,000 attendees throughout the weekend. 20.3% of attendees were from out of town successful through a tourism marketing campaign supported by DDF. Expanded projects include: Expanded main stage, new DJ stage and new Family Pride.
Tourism Project Feasibility Study
This study assessed the feasibility of constructing and operating an Above-Ground Centre as a complement to the current Diefenbunker museum as a tourism destination in rural Carp. The feasibility study strongly supported the Above-Ground Centre project at the Diefenbunker, outlining clear steps, resource needs, and substantial economic and community benefits. The proposed initiative expected to enhance visitor experience, increase capacity, and generate positive financial and economic impacts for the region.
Indigenous tourism site development and expansion project
Through support from Ottawa Tourism’s Destination Development Fund, Mādahòkì Farm has introduced in 2025 a new Spirit Horse experience. Visitors can explore the Trail of the Spirit Horse, a self-guided journey featuring teachings from Elders, Indigenous art, historic documents, and an augmented reality encounter with Ojibwe Spirit Horses. This new tourism offering elevates Indigenous voices and creates new, year-round cultural experiences for visitors that strengthen the destination.
Pedaler Express
Thursty Pedaler launched The Pedaler Express (TPE), a new holiday experience in collaboration with the Ottawa Christmas Market. TPE is an activity where riders can experience the market from a new seat, while singing “Carol-oke” and enjoying warm drinks. Hosted 507 guests from places including Mexico, USA, Ontario, Saskatchewan, Quebec and Nova Scotia.
Fat Tire Bike Tours
DDF supported this new winter tourism product expanding winter programming in the destination. Funding supported project staff salaries, consultants, specialized apparel and equipment, and out-of-market marketing initiatives. Partnerships with local hotels, influencers, and tourism organizations amplified reach and impact.
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