Ontario is now accepting applications for the first intake of the 2026–27 Sport Hosting Program, a provincial fund that supports communities and sport organizations in hosting national and international amateur competitions.
The Ministry of Sport says the program is part of the government’s broader plan to strengthen the economy by driving sport tourism, creating jobs and supporting local businesses.
“Sport tourism is a powerful economic driver, and an important part of our government’s plan to protect Ontario’s economy,” said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Sport. “Our Sport Hosting Program helps communities unlock the benefits of hosting major events and gives our athletes the opportunity to compete here at home, while reinforcing Ontario’s reputation as a premier destination for world-class events.”
The province invests $3 million annually in the program, which has supported more than 230 events since 2018 and contributed an estimated $220 million to Ontario’s economy. Recent supported events include Canada Basketball’s 2025 Globl Jam in Toronto, the 2025 World Junior Girls Golf Championship in St. Catharines, the 2025 Women’s Volleyball Nations League in Ottawa and the 2025 Canadian Wheelchair Basketball League Women’s National Championship in Durham Region.
Officials say the program helps communities attract high-profile events that stimulate economic activity and tourism while giving Ontario athletes valuable high-level competition opportunities close to home.
Applications for the 2026–27 intake can be submitted through Transfer Payment Ontario until January 12, 2026.
