Ottawa’s Shaw Centre will receive up to $2 million this year to support its continued operation and maintenance.
The funding injection is part of $8 million in newly announced tourism support from the Ontario government.
“This funding will enable the Shaw Centre to continue to adapt and respond to the new realities facing tourism businesses — ensuring that, when it is safe to do so, they are prepared for a renewed travel interest in Canada’s capital,” said Lisa MacLeod, Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries during an announcement July 6.
The Shaw Centre’s allocation will be used to cover core operating costs, such as rent, utilities, insurance, and health and safety costs, enabling the 192,000-square-foot convention facility to sustain operations, prevent insolvency and prepare for reopening.
“This critical funding will allow us to ensure the Shaw Centre remains a safe and welcoming space for our guests as we plan for a brighter future,” said Shaw Centre president and CEO, Nina Kressler.
Ottawa Tourism, an independent, not-for-profit organization that works with approximately 450 tourism-related businesses in the region, will receive $6 million to help alleviate losses, draw visitors to the national capital region through promotional activities and the development of new attractions, and to support workforce training.
“Ottawa Tourism looks forward to investing these provincial funds into initiatives that will lead to increased visitation to this region and to our urban businesses that have seen added challenges,” said the organization’s president and CEO, Michael Crockatt. “Our member businesses have shown their creativity and resiliency throughout the pandemic and will continue to innovate as we welcome visitors back to Canada’s capital. A strong visitor economy is important for Ottawa’s recovery.”
