Hospitality Grants in Canada: Current Grants + Tips for Applying

The hospitality industry is a cornerstone of Canada’s economy, encompassing businesses such as hotels, restaurants, travel services, and event venues. With its reliance on tourism and consumer spending, the industry faces unique challenges and opportunities. Various funding options, including grants, loans, and equity investments, are available to support growth, innovation, and recovery.

Key Takeaways

  • Hospitality business grants provide non-repayable financial assistance for projects that support innovation, workforce development, and recovery in the hospitality sector.
  • Funding is offered by federal and provincial governments, non-profit organizations, and industry associations.
  • Typical eligibility criteria include being part of the hospitality industry, aligning with grant objectives, and sometimes matching funds requirements.
  • Funds can typically be used for activities such as workforce training, marketing campaigns, facility upgrades, and adoption of technology solutions.
  • Complementary funding options include business loans, tourism recovery programs, and equity investments tailored to the hospitality industry.

What is a Grant for Hospitality Businesses?

A hospitality business grant is a form of non-repayable financial support provided by government bodies, non-profit organizations, or industry associations to support businesses in the hospitality sector. These grants aim to foster recovery, innovation, workforce development, and competitiveness by funding specific activities or projects that align with broader economic and industry goals.

Grants are typically categorized into:

  • Activity Grants: Focused on funding specific business activities like workforce training, marketing, or technology upgrades.
  • Audience Grants: Targeted at specific groups, such as women entrepreneurs or minority-owned businesses in the hospitality industry.
  • Industry Grants: Designed to enhance innovation and competitiveness within the hospitality sector.
  • Regional Grants: Aimed at boosting economic growth in specific provinces, territories, or underserved regions.

Grants vs Loans in Canada for Hospitality Entrepreneurs

AspectBusiness GrantsBusiness Loans
RepaymentNot requiredRequired with interest
Financial RiskMinimalModerate to high
EligibilityStrict and project-specificBased on creditworthiness
Application ProcessCompetitive and time-consumingFaster but requires financial proof


For specific projects such as workforce training, adopting new technologies, or marketing campaigns, grants can be highly beneficial. However, if your business needs immediate capital for general operations or expansion, loans offer a faster and more flexible option.

Types of Grants for Hospitality Businesses in Canada

Federal Government Grants for Hospitality Businesses

Federal government grants focus on national priorities like innovation, workforce development, and recovery in the hospitality sector. These grants often fund projects with significant industry impact, including sustainable practices, digital transformation, and advanced marketing strategies. Federal initiatives frequently support businesses adopting cutting-edge technologies to enhance customer experiences and improve operational efficiency.

Provincial Government Grants for Hospitality Businesses

Provincial government grants address region-specific needs and aim to promote tourism and local economic development. These grants often fund projects such as marketing campaigns highlighting local attractions, investments in regional events, and facility upgrades. They also target rural or underserved areas, supporting SMEs with workforce training and sustainability efforts to boost community-level economic activity.

Non-Profit Grants for Hospitality Businesses

Non-profit organizations and industry associations provide grants to encourage collaboration, sustainability, and innovation in the hospitality sector. These grants often fund programs that promote diversity, community engagement, and leadership development. Non-profit grants may also support businesses implementing initiatives that enhance cultural and environmental sustainability or foster partnerships with local suppliers and community groups.

Eligibility Criteria for Hospitality Business Grants in Canada

Eligibility criteria for hospitality business grants are designed to ensure funds are allocated to impactful and relevant projects. Key criteria include:

1. Industry Alignment

  • Applicants must demonstrate that their business operates within the hospitality sector and aligns with the grant’s objectives, such as innovation, recovery, or market growth.

2. Project Specificity

  • Grants are often provided for clearly defined projects, such as marketing campaigns, digital transformation, or sustainability initiatives. Clearly articulating project goals and outcomes is essential.

3. Geographic Requirements

4. Business Size and Status

  • Eligibility may extend to SMEs, sole proprietors, or partnerships in the hospitality sector. Large enterprises may also qualify for some programs based on specific project scopes.

5. Financial Contribution

  • Many grants require matching funds to show commitment to the project’s success. This demonstrates financial stability and partnership potential.

6. Expected Impact

  • Applications should highlight how the project will benefit the industry, such as increasing tourism, enhancing customer experiences, or creating jobs. Providing metrics or KPIs can strengthen your application.

7. Required Documentation

  • Applicants may need to provide proof of business registration, financial statements, detailed project plans, and industry certifications. This demonstrates professionalism and preparedness.

Applying for Hospitality Business Grants: Top 5 Tips

1. Identify Relevant Grants

  • Begin by researching available grants that align with your business and project goals. Consider national, provincial, and non-profit opportunities, and ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for each.

2. Develop a Detailed Proposal

  • A comprehensive proposal should outline your project’s purpose, timeline, budget, and expected outcomes. Include data to support the feasibility and potential industry impact of your project. Clear and concise writing is key.

3. Demonstrate Financial Stability

  • Showcase your ability to manage and match the funds you’re requesting. Include financial statements, proof of revenue, or letters of support to demonstrate your business’s credibility.

4. Align with Grant Objectives

  • Tailor your application to emphasize how your project aligns with the grant’s stated goals. For example, if the grant focuses on sustainability, highlight how your project promotes eco-friendly practices.

5. Follow-Up After Submission

  • After submitting your application, follow up with the granting organization to ensure it was received and to ask about the next steps. This demonstrates your commitment and professionalism.

Alternatives to Hospitality Business Grants in Canada

Business Loans & Credit for Hospitality

  • Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC): Provides tailored financing solutions for hospitality businesses, including loans for renovations, equipment purchases, and working capital. These loans often come with advisory services to support business growth.
  • RBC Hospitality Financing: Offers specialized loans and credit solutions for hotels, restaurants, and other hospitality enterprises. Flexible repayment terms and industry-specific expertise make these loans accessible.
  • Lines of Credit: Many banks offer lines of credit designed for hospitality businesses, providing flexible access to funds for operational needs and short-term cash flow challenges.

Startup Programs for Hospitality

  • Futurpreneur Canada: Supports emerging entrepreneurs in the hospitality industry with startup financing, mentorship, and business resources. This program is ideal for young or first-time business owners.
  • Regional Tourism Recovery Programs: Provincial tourism initiatives often include support for new hospitality ventures. These programs provide funding, training, and marketing support to boost local tourism.
  • Small Business Incubators: Many regions have incubators focused on hospitality and tourism startups, offering workspace, mentorship, and access to investors.

Equity Investment Programs for Hospitality

  • Angel Investors: Angel investors are often interested in innovative or high-growth potential ventures in the hospitality sector. Networking through industry events or investor platforms can connect businesses with these opportunities.
  • Impact Investors: Organizations such as InvestEco prioritize sustainable and community-driven projects, making them ideal for hospitality businesses focusing on eco-friendly and socially responsible practices.
  • Tax Credits and Incentives: Some provinces offer tax credits or incentives for investments in the hospitality sector, particularly for projects that enhance local economic development or promote sustainability.

Hospitality Business Grants – Current Grants Available in Canada

In the sections below you’ll find a sample of the federal and provincial grants currently available for hospitality businesses in Canada:

Web Presence Assistance

Amount:

$2,500.00

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Web Presence Assistance is a non-repayable contribution provided to Prince Edward Island businesses and local not-for-profits to assist them in establishing a presence on the Internet or to upgrade an existing website to include e-commerce. The purpose of this assistance is to help Island businesses and not-for-profits increase business by creating a website to establish online visibility and reach.

More Info

Trade Accelerator Program

Amount:

No specific amount was identified.

Type of Program:

Subsidy

Description:

The Trade Accelerator Program (TAP) is an innovative 4-session initiative, designed to accelerate the strategic development of your business and to better prepare you for an expansion into international markets. With TAP, you’ll get the tools, connections and knowledge you need to take your business into new markets. Our team understands the challenges you’re facing and is here to support and prepare you.

More Info

Tourist Attractions Development Support Program (PADAT) – Stream 2: Financing funds for hotel establishments .

Amount:

$5,000,000

Type of Program:

Grant, Loan, Investment

Description:

Improving the condition of the hotel park infrastructure and adding tourist accommodation units;
More specifically, this component aims to:

The renovation and upgrading of accommodation units, meeting or conference rooms, public areas (entrance hall, reception, rest areas, public toilets, bar and other interior fittings) or the exterior structure of the building (cladding, roof, doors and windows, etc.);
The addition of hotel infrastructure.

More Info

Tourism Cooperative Marketing Fund (TCMF)

Amount:

$15,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Tourism Cooperative Marketing Fund (TCMF) helps the Yukon’s tourism industry attract visitors and gain international exposure. These marketing activities help strengthen the territory’s tourism brand.

More Info

Support for the development of entrepreneurship

Amount:

$1,000,000

Type of Program:

Grant, Loan, Subsidy

Description:

The Economic Development Project Support Program – Structuring projects of organizations in support of entrepreneurship development (PAPDE, component 1) aims to promote and support structuring projects of organizations that offer direct services to entrepreneurs.

More Info

Support for Self-Employment

Amount:

No fixed amount

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

Provide assistance in the form of coaching, technical advice and financial support to help eligible individuals start a business.

More Info

Support for increasing sales and the supply of Quebec alcohols in the Société des alcools du Québec network

Amount:

No specific amount was identified. Consult the program Framework/guide for detailed one.

Type of Program:

Grant, Subsidy

Description:

The Quebec Alcohol Positioning Support Program – Support for increasing sales and the supply of Quebec alcohol in the Société des alcools du Québec network (PAPAQ, section 1) aims to increase sales and the supply of value-added products from Quebec alcoholic beverage producers.

More Info

Storefront Refresh Grant

Amount:

$20,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

This is a matching reimbursement grant for small exterior renovations

More Info

Storefront Improvement Grant

Amount:

$50,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

This is a matching reimbursement grant for large, significant exterior renovations, up to 50% of project costs.

More Info

Spark Tourism Micro-grant

Amount:

$5,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Spark Tourism Micro-grant program supports new and emerging entrepreneurs who offer visitor experiences and services in the Yukon. The program helps turn your idea into reality and acts as a catalyst to spark larger future projects.

More Info

Southwestern Ontario Development Fund

Amount:

$5,000,000.00

Type of Program:

Grant, Loan

Description:

The Southwestern Ontario Development Fund provides support for projects and investments to existing businesses, municipalities and not-for-profit organizations for economic development in southwestern Ontario. The objective of the program is to provide financial support and services to help growing companies in southwestern Ontario make investments to:
1. Grow their businesses
2. Improve productivity
3. Invest in innovation and skills development
4. Pursue new markets
5. Generate broad positive regional economic impact
6. Create new good, sustainable jobs

A project is a distinct undertaking, separate from ongoing operations, that will result in benefits to the organization such as business growth or access to new markets.

More Info

Seal and Fur Contributions Grant Program (S&FG) – Seal and Fur Grant Program

Amount:

$10,000.00

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

This program provides grants to individuals, organizations, businesses, or societies who wish to undertake projects and/or activities that support the promotion, advocacy, research, development and diversification of Nunavut’s sealing and fur sectors.

More Info

Seal and Fur Contributions Grant Program (S&FG) – Dressed Sealskins for Nunavummiut Program

Amount:

$100,000.00

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

This program encourages the use of Nunavut sealskins for the value-added sealskin industry. The program provides Nunavut harvested dressed and/or dyed sealskins to Nunavummiut at cost price to ensure equal and easy access to sealskins for all Nunavummiut. The program acquires its seal skins exclusively from Department of Environment’s Sealskin Purchasing Program which provides financial compensation to harvesters for quality sealskins.

More Info

Seal and Fur Contributions Grant Program (S&FG)

Amount:

$150,000.00

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

This program provides financial assistance to individuals, organizations, businesses, or societies who wish to undertake projects and/or activities that support the promotion, advocacy, research, development and diversification of Nunavut’s sealing and fur sectors.

More Info

Save on Energy – Retrofit Program

Amount:

no fixed amount

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Save on Energy Retrofit program offers businesses in Ontario incentives to upgrade equipment, reduce energy bills, lower their carbon footprint and increase productivity. The incentives are designed to help businesses speed up their payback on energy-efficiency equipment upgrades. The program offers incentives in two streams:
– Custom stream for larger, more complex retrofit projects to capture greater energy savings;
– Prescriptive stream for targeted retrofit projects focusing on commonly used products and technologies.

More Info

Revitalization Extensive Project Fund (REPF)

Amount:

$50,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Revitalization Extensive Project Fund offers organizations the opportunity to apply for funding for larger-scale projects in Revitalization Areas.

More Info

Retail Accelerator Program

Amount:

$10,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

Small retail businesses are the heart of Toronto’s main streets, employ thousands of residents, and are a key driver of the city’s prosperity.

This program provides access to retail training, advisory services and mentoring opportunities. In addition, it offers a micro grant valued at $10,000 to help retail businesses develop and expand.

More Info

Request the required certificates for the design tax credit

Amount:

No specific amount was identified.

Type of Program:

Tax Credit

Description:

In order to benefit from the tax credit for carrying out a design activity (internally or externally), a company must obtain a certificate with regard to a design activity for industrially manufactured goods (or “certificate of activity”).

More Info

Nutrition North Canada (NNC) Program

Amount:

No fixed amount

Type of Program:

Subsidy

Description:

Nutrition North Canada is a Government of Canada program that helps make nutritious food and some essential items more affordable and more accessible.
NNC subsidizes a list of nutritious eligible foods, as well as certain non-food items such as diapers and soap, hand-sanitizers and personal hygiene products, sold by registered retailers, suppliers, and country food processors.

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Nova Scotia Loyal

Amount:

No funding involved

Type of Program:

In-Kind Support

Description:

Nova Scotia Loyal is a government program designed to make it easier for Nova Scotians to identify, purchase, and support local products.

More Info

Island Good

Amount:

No funding involved

Type of Program:

In-Kind Support

Description:

The Island Good logo is a trusted brand, now available to growers, producers, processors, distributors, and retailers on Vancouver Island and the surrounding rural islands. Businesses can use the logo on product packaging, signage, websites, and social media to highlight their connection to the local community.

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HardTech Pitch Competition

Amount:

$50,000.00

Type of Program:

Competition

Description:

The HardTech Pitch Competition, held in partnership by ventureLAB and the Regional Municipality of York, is open to small and medium enterprises incorporated in Canada developing hardware innovations. Finalists will have the opportunity to pitch for their chance to take home a collective $50,000 in cash and showcase their breakthrough products and innovations in hardware technology to a broad audience including industry, investors, government, media, and more!

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Grow Ontario Market Initiative

Amount:

$125,000.00

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Grow Ontario Market Initiative provides funding to primary producers, processors and industry organizations to find and develop domestic or export market opportunities.

You may use the funding to grow your business through:
1. Marketing analysis and planning
2. New product development
3. Marketing activities

More Info

Food Storage, Distribution and Retail Program

Amount:

$3,000,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The FSDR program is under the Food Affordability and Innovation Fund (FAI), an up to $20M fund. FAI aims to improve the affordability of food in BC through targeted investments in supply chains, food system innovations and partnerships. Specifically, the Fund will support approaches and collaborations at strategic nodes along the food supply chain to strengthen and streamline logistics, storage and transportation and improve access to affordable food, particularly in remote, rural, and/or indigenous communities. Learn more about FAI.

More Info

Financing fund for hotel establishments

Amount:

$5,000,000

Type of Program:

Loan, Investment

Description:

The Financing Fund for Hotel Establishments (PADAT section 2) is part of the perspective of responding to a significant need for renewal of infrastructure in the hotel accommodation sector. Read the contents of note number1. This component aims to improve the state of the hotel infrastructure and add tourist accommodation units.

More Info

Financial assistance to install a CO2 refrigeration system – Supermarkets and convenience stores

Amount:

$250,000

Type of Program:

Grant, Loan, Subsidy

Description:

This simplified component of the EcoPerformance program offers a subsidy to supermarkets and convenience stores that wish to install a refrigeration system that runs on CO2 , which is not very harmful to the environment.

More Info

Financial assistance to convert an oil or propane heating system to electricity for a building

Amount:

No specific amount was identified.

Type of Program:

Grant, Loan, Subsidy

Description:

The simplified component of the EcoPerformance program supports small energy consumers in the business sector who wish to heat their building with electricity instead of using fuel oil or propane. Read the contents of note number1 .

More Info

Façade grant program

Amount:

No fixed amount

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

Downtown Kitchener is a hub of activity, and downtown businesses want to make a lasting impression on visitors. Our façade grant program can help.

We offer grants to eligible downtown property owners and tenants who want to make street-facing building façade improvements.

More Info

Enbridge Gas Boilers: Affordable Multi-Family Housing Program, Commercial Custom Retrofit Program, and Industrial Custom Engineering Program

Amount:

$200,000

Type of Program:

Grant, In-Kind Support

Description:

The Boilers program is designed to provide system upgrade, expert help and incentives to improve boiler energy efficiency and saves money. Without proper system design, boilers can waste energy and increase operational costs. Enbridge Gas’ Energy Solutions Advisors can help eligible customers identify projects and take advantage of incentives through the following programs:
1. Affordable Multi-Family Housing Program;
2. Commercial Custom Retrofit Program;
3. Industrial Custom Engineering Program.

More Info

Efficiency Nova Scotia Energy Rebates

Amount:

no fixed amount

Type of Program:

Rebate

Description:

Efficiency Nova Scotia provides energy rebates to businesses that choose energy efficient product solutions that can help them save energy, and the environment. The rebates make it more affordable to integrate these products into the business.

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Eastern Ontario Development Fund

Amount:

$5,000,000.00

Type of Program:

Grant, Loan

Description:

The Eastern Ontario Development Fund provides support for projects and investments to existing businesses, municipalities and not-for-profit organizations for economic development in eastern Ontario. The objective of the program is to provide financial support and services to help growing companies in eastern Ontario make investments to:
1. Grow their businesses
2. Improve productivity
3. Invest in innovation and skills development
4. Pursue new markets
5. Generate broad positive regional economic impact
6. Create new good, sustainable jobs

A project is a distinct undertaking, separate from ongoing operations, that will result in benefits to the organization such as business growth or access to new markets.

More Info

Corner Store Grants – Small Business Support Grant

Amount:

$1,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Corner Store grant program is targeted to Neighbourhood Commercial properties or properties that meet the commercial needs of local residents.

Initiatives that will improve the capacity, efficiency, productivity and/or competitiveness of the business.

More Info

Corner Store Grants – Corner Store Interior Grant – Standalone Commercial Buildings

Amount:

$10,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Corner Store grant program is targeted to Neighbourhood Commercial properties or properties that meet the commercial needs of local residents.
Improvements to an underutilized ground floor or vacant commercial interior space.

More Info

Corner Store Grants – Corner Store Interior Grant – Small Commercial Centre

Amount:

$20,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Corner Store grant program is targeted to Neighbourhood Commercial properties or properties that meet the commercial needs of local residents.

Improvements to an underutilized ground floor or vacant commercial interior space.

More Info

Corner Store Grants – Corner Store Exterior Grant – Standalone Commercial Buildings

Amount:

$15,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Corner Store grant program is targeted to Neighbourhood Commercial properties or properties that meet the commercial needs of local residents.

Exterior improvements to active storefronts

More Info

Corner Store Grants – Corner Store Exterior Grant – Small Commercial Centre

Amount:

$60,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Corner Store grant program is targeted to Neighbourhood Commercial properties or properties that meet the commercial needs of local residents.

Exterior improvements to active storefronts.

More Info

Community Murals Matching Grant

Amount:

$8,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

Murals are an important form of public art that can have a profound and positive impact on a city and its well-being.

More Info

Collective Dismissal

Amount:

No specific amount has been identified.

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

This program offers technical assistance to employers who are considering implementing collective dismissals. Besides, it provides financial support to help cover the expenses associated with running the committee and carrying out reclassification activities.

More Info

Circular Economy Accelerator Program

Amount:

No funding is involved

Type of Program:

Accelerator

Description:

The Circular Economy Accelerator Program provides 1:1 support to businesses seeking to find operational efficiencies, reduce waste and emissions, increase revenue, and develop innovative practices. This program – the first of its kind in Canada – will position your business as an industry leader, attracting talent and investment, increasing revenue, and paving the way to a prosperous, sustainable, and resilient future for your community.

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Chinatown Vibrancy Fund

Amount:

There is no minimum or maximum amount for individual projects.

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Chinatown Vibrancy Fund aims to support the implementation of the Chinatown Strategy by bringing visitors into the area through festivals, events and cultural projects as well as building community cohesion and empowering residents both housed and unhoused

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BDC Growth Venture Fund

Amount:

No fixed amount

Type of Program:

Investment

Description:

The $500 million Growth Venture envelope continues and expands on the mandate of the previous Funds I and II. It targets late-stage, innovation-based businesses that are at an inflection point and show strong potential for meaningful scale. Our team and network give entrepreneurs the structure and strategies to build markets worldwide.

More Info

Maurice

About the author

Maurice

Maurice (Moe) Muise learned the ins-and-outs of government while an employee of the Government of Canada in Ottawa for 10 years. His current focus is helping small businesses in Canada to identify and maximize funding to grow their business.

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