Grants

The City provides grant funding under a number of programs. Please note this is not an exhaustive list of grants available in the community and we encourage you to explore other available options.

Tourism Development Funds (Tourism Nanaimo)

Audience

See the Tourism Nanaimo website

Status

Active

Tourism Nanaimo is transitioning into a new Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT) management model with the City of Nanaimo, and is excited to share updates and outline the future of this program, which remains a critical element of its destination development strategy. 

Tourism Nanaimo recognizes the enthusiasm and urgency surrounding this funding initiative and its potential impact on local organizations and events. However, transitions of this scope require deliberate planning to ensure long-term success and sustainability. Their commitment is to build a program that reflects community needs while aligning with our broader goals for destination growth and economic impact.

Tourism Nanaimo will begin receiving MRDT funds in mid-April 2025, with the first installment representing lower-than-average collections (January to March revenues). To ensure financial stability and proper program funding, the grant intake will open in July, following the second MRDT installment.

The transition to managing this program involves creating robust systems and processes to ensure fairness, transparency, and alignment with organizational objectives.

The previous administration of this program evolved over a decade, building incremental funding and capacity. As Tourism Nanaimo takes on this responsibility, they aim to create a similarly sustainable trajectory rather than rush implementation without the necessary resources. This approach will ensure a resilient program that supports the community for years to come.

The first official announcement regarding the 2025 Grant and Funding Program is scheduled for late April.

More information about this grant can be found online at  www.tourismnanaimo.com.

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