XXX Announces First 15 Grant Recipients of the Alberta Tourism Growth Program

Alberta, June 19, 2023 

XXX is delighted to announce the 15 exceptional recipients of grants under the Alberta Tourism Growth Program. These recipients will collectively receive over $250,000 in funding. The primary objective of this grant is to foster collaboration and partnership with communities, associations, and businesses, aiming to enhance Alberta’s tourism sector. This initiative is designed to stimulate economic development and propel the province’s tourism industry to new heights. With an annual allocation of $10 million, the program aims to provide vital support and cultivate growth in this crucial sector.

The recipients were selected for their outstanding proposals and potential to drive tourism growth in their cities. These remarkable examples from the initial wave of grant recipients demonstrate the diverse and innovative offerings that make Alberta a highly sought-after destination.”

Among the standout recipients are:

• Tourism Lethbridge: Awarded $150,000 to host an enticing summer food truck festival, adding a delectable dimension to Lethbridge’s vibrant culinary scene.
• Freewill Shakespeare Festival: Granted $50,000 to facilitate advertising and promotion of Shakespeare in the Park over the next two years, enticing visitors to indulge in this cultural gem in Edmonton.
• Central Alberta Rodeo Association: Recognized with a $100,000 grant to invigorate the rodeo experience and celebrate Alberta’s rich western heritage.
• Calgary Folk Music Festival: Honored with $75,000 to bolster the organization’s efforts in hosting the highly anticipated 2023 festival, showcasing exceptional musical talent and nurturing community spirit.
• Empress Theatre: Endowed with $10,000 to create new marketing materials, enabling Fort McLeod’s historic Empress Theatre to further entice visitors and showcase its cultural offerings.
• Athabasca Agricultural Society: Allocated an impressive $250,000 to embark on crucial facility upgrades, enhancing the overall experience for residents and visitors alike.
• Wood Buffalo Economic Development: Granted $80,000 to strategize and implement an impactful ad campaign aimed at attracting tourists to the captivating Fort McMurray area.

While Alberta’s tourism industry is still on the path to recovery, the Alberta Tourism Growth Program aims to inject renewed vitality and resilience into the sector. However, the overwhelming number of grant applications received exceeded the available funding, highlighting the industry’s immense potential and the pressing need for continued support.

These grant recipients represent the diverse and innovative attractions that make Alberta a highly desirable destination. XXX remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering a resilient and thriving tourism sector, and the Alberta Tourism Growth Program stands as a testament to this dedication.