Northern Ontario Accessible "Spark" Program Application

If you've got an idea that makes travel in Northern Ontario more accessible — a new experience, or a real accessibility upgrade to something that already exists — this program was built for you. Apply below for the chance to receive $3,000 in seed funds and 3 months of mentorship with an industry expert.

Please note that there are three parts to this application:

Part A: About You - 6 questions that let us know who you are and how we can contact you
Part B: About Your Idea - 10 questions about what you'd like to do
Part C: Your Video - a 60-second recording introducing yourself and your project. Don't include special effects or text, and don't make any edits - we just want to see your face and your you describe your idea in your own words.

For more guidance on creating a top-notch "Spark" application, download our quick-start guide!

Application Timeline

Applications Open

September 14, 2026 at 9 AM

Applications Close

October 29, 2026 at 5 PM

Finalists Notified By

November 12, 2026 at 5 PM

Live Pitch Session

November 19, 2026, time TBA

Winners Announced

November 19, 2026

If the web form is a barrier for you, please feel free to complete this .docx application instead. Then, email it, along with your 60-second video, to northernontario@tourisminnovation.ca.

If you require further assistance with or accommodations for the application, please contact info@tourisminnovation.ca

Applicant name (first and last) *

If applying on behalf of a business, organization, or group, enter the name of the person who will be the main contact

Business/ organization/ project name *

If applying as an individual, provide a name for your project. Otherwise, list the name of your business, organization, or group.

Postal Code *

Business/ organization/ project website

A public social media page is acceptable. This question is not required.

Phone Number *

This is how TIL staff will contact you with news about your application. We recommend using a direct number to the person listed above.

Email address *

This is how TIL staff will contact you with news about your application. We recommend using a direct contact for the person listed above.

1. Tell us about yourself, your small business, community group, or non-profit organization. *

Max 500 characters

2. Describe your new tourism idea. *

Max 1,000 characters

3. What gap in your community will your idea help fill? *

Max 500 characters

4. Who is your ideal visitor or customer? *

Max 500 characters

5. What stage are you at with your idea? *

Max 500 characters

6. What challenges are you encountering with your idea? *

Max 500 characters

7. What is the approximate total cost of your project, and how would you use the seed funds? *

Max 500 characters

8. How does your idea advance sustainability efforts in the region? *

Max 500 characters

9. How can a mentor best support you in bringing your idea to life? *

Max 500 characters

10. What do you hope to achieve with this idea? *

Max 500 characters

Video *

Share a sixty second video introducing yourself and your idea. Don't include any editing, text, or special effects - we just want to see and hear from you!

Submit

Northern Ontario Accessible "Spark" Program Application

Application Timeline

Applications Open

Applications Close

Finalists Notified By

Live Pitch Session

Winners Announced

Thank you for your feedback!

Part A: About You

Part C: Your Video

Part B: About Your Idea

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