Dave Levac
For Brant News

It’s time to Celebrate Ontario 2013.

The Government of Ontario is getting ready once again to support festivals and events in Brant that will boost tourism, generate greater economic activity and welcome new visitors to the region.

Celebrate Ontario 2013 is now open for applications launched through Grants Ontario at www.grants.gov.on.ca. The new, secure web-based application system provides one-window access for users.

This support helps festivals and events enhance programming and services that strengthen local economies, create jobs and foster a better quality of life for local families.

In 2012 Celebrate Ontario funding supported 203 festivals and events across the province, including right here in Brant.

Supporting Ontario’s tourism sector is part of my plan to build a stronger economy and create jobs for families and individuals from across Brant.

When we support local festivals and events, we can make a real difference in our community.

Visitors come for the excitement, but stay for our accommodations, bed and breakfasts, restaurants and other local attractions — and that means creating more jobs.

The Celebrate Ontario 2013 application deadline is Nov. 20, 2012.

Since 2007, Celebrate Ontario has supported nearly 1,000 events across the province. Every year, festivals and events generate more than 22,000 jobs in Ontario.

Tourism is an important part of Ontario’s economy generating over $23 billion and supporting over 300,000 jobs.

For more information about applying for a Celebrate Ontario grant please visit www.ontario.ca/celebrateontario.

For all other provincial matters please call me at my office at 519-759-0361 or visit my website at www.davelevac.on.ca.

Dave Levac is MPP for Brant and Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario.