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Ontario Supporting Cultural Tourism in Town of The Blue Mountains

$30,000.00 investment will create jobs and boost local economy

April 7, 2025 – For Immediate Release

Town of The Blue Mountains – The Ontario government is supporting the growth and sustainability of cultural tourism, creating jobs and boosting the local economy in the Town of The Blue Mountains. Brian Saunderson, MPP for Simcoe-Grey announced today that the Blue Mountain Village Association will receive $30,000.00 in funding through the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund (OCAF)

“In addition to its many natural amenities, Blue Mountain also shines when the stars light up the big screen during the annual Blue Mountain Film + Media Festival,”  said MPP Brian Saunderson.  “It’s a cultural event that attracts film lovers from across the riding and beyond, our government is pleased to play a role with the OCAF grant.”

The Ontario government, through OCAF, is supporting the Blue Mountain Village Association to develop, promote and present The 2025 Blue Mountain Film + Media Festival.

Today’s funding announcement is part of the government’s overall investment of $6 million into OCAF projects across the province over the next three years.  

“Arts and culture organizations across Ontario enrich the lives of residents and visitors alike by providing one-of-a-kind events that proudly showcase the best that our province has to offer,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “The investments that our government is making through OCAF will help to bring these wonderful projects to life, while boosting local business, creating jobs and enabling audiences of all ages to experience unique, made-in-Ontario programming that will create lifelong memories.” 

“We are incredibly grateful for the support of this cultural grant, which will play a vital role in elevating the Blue Mountain Film + Media Festival experience for attendees and participants alike. This investment helps us attract visitors and creative talent from near and far, bring in exceptional film content and special guests, and further establish our festival as a dynamic hub for arts and culture.”

                                                                       – Patti Kendall, President
                                                                         Blue Mountain Village Association

OCAF funds are provided as partially repayable loans, which enable more projects to be supported. For every $1 that the Ontario government invests, $1.69 is in turn invested in cultural tourism.  

QUICK FACTS 

  • Since 1999, OCAF has supported more than 990 events, festivals and exhibitions across Ontario, which have attracted over 91 million attendees. 
  • OCAF provides support to cultural tourism events that range in size from large art and music festivals to smaller events that celebrate local Ontario culture and heritage.  

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

  • OCAF continues to accept applications for new events and offers applicants flexibility regarding project timing and scope. Please visit the OCAF website for more information on the organization and to view a full list of recipients.