THE COUNTIES, Ontario - Three finalists who made winning pitches for the Akwesasne, Cornwall & SDG Counties “Spark” Program were each awarded a $3,000 grant and mentorship to help take their new tourism ideas to the next level of development. This is the second time the program has been offered in the region, with three entrepreneurs previously selected in 2020.
“We congratulate the three winners of the Akwesasne, Cornwall & SDG Counties 'Spark' Program, and are excited to work with them to help develop new and exciting tourism initiatives in the region,” said Justin Lafontaine, Program Lead for the Tourism Innovation Lab.
The 'Spark' Mentorships and Grants Program is a partnership between the Tourism Innovation Lab, Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, Cornwall Tourism, Cornwall Tourism Development Fund, and SDG Counties Tourism. Its goal is to find, foster and support new tourism ideas, experiences and partnerships that will enhance current offerings, address gaps or challenges, motivate travel and longer stays, and increase year-round visits in the region.
“This year the Akwesasne, Cornwall & SDG Counties ‘Spark’ Program received an array of submissions with some incredible ideas and concepts. The result is a program that brings with it a tremendous amount of success. I can’t wait to see our winners grow their ideas for attractions that will increase our tourism footprint in the region,” said Allan Armstrong, Warden for SDG Counties.
Eleven applications were submitted with the top six applicants being invited to present their new tourism idea at a virtual Finalists’ Pitch Session held on Dec. 7. A judge panel of partner representatives and a tourism entrepreneur from outside the region selected the three winning applicants – one each from Akwesasne, Cornwall and SDG Counties.
“Cornwall is proud to be part of such a collaborative program like Spark, which is aimed at bringing new tourism ideas to life in our region,” said Cornwall Mayor Glen Grant. “I am eager to see the 2021 winners develop their initiatives and add to our region’s standing as a great visitor destination.”
His sentiments were echoed by Mohawk Council of Akwesasne Grand Chief Abram Benedict.
"Akwesasne, Cornwall & SDG Counties 'Spark' Program is a very exciting project that encourages creativity, inclusivity and participation from all of our communities. These mentorships and grant programs have the potential to create long-lasting business relationships that will of course benefit all individuals but most importantly, all communities involved. Congratulations to our two finalists, I look forward to seeing these visions come to life,” said Benedict.
The 2021 Akwesasne, Cornwall & SDG Counties 'Spark' Program winners are:
- Karonhianonha Francis, Native North American Travelling College - Visitor WOW Moments (Akwesasne)
- Jean-Yves Lemoine, Cornwall Community Museum - Walking, Bicycling & Virtual Tours (Cornwall)
- Evodie & Jonathan Smith, Paperboat Farms - Farm-to-Table Culinary Events (SDG Counties)
In addition to a source of seed funding and mentorship, selected applicants gain access to a network of tourism innovators, entrepreneurs and leaders across the province.
For more information visit www.tourisminnovation.ca/ACSDG.