Ontario Opens Applications for 2026–27 Sport Hosting Program With $3 Million Investment

Ontario Sport Hosting Program launches its 2026–27 intake, offering $3 million to help communities host national and international amateur sport events.

Toronto — The Ontario government has opened applications for the first intake of the 2026–27 Sport Hosting Program, a provincial funding stream that supports communities and sport organizations hosting national and international amateur competitions. The program, delivered by the Ministry of Sport, is part of Ontario’s broader plan to strengthen tourism, create jobs, and boost local economies through sport.

Ontario will invest $3 million annually through the program, which has supported more than 230 events since 2018 and generated approximately $220 million in economic activity across the province.

“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, in the release. He noted that hosting major competitions brings visitors, supports local businesses, and allows Ontario athletes to compete on home soil.

Recent Events Supported Across Ontario

Several major amateur competitions have recently received support through the Sport Hosting Program, including:

• Canada Basketball’s 2025 GLOBL JAM in Toronto

• 2025 World Junior Girls Golf Championship in St. Catharines

• 2025 Women’s Volleyball Nations League in Ottawa

• 2025 Canadian Wheelchair Basketball League Women’s National Championship in Durham Region

The program helps offset operational costs such as venue rentals, staffing, accommodations, meals, and legacy projects aimed at long-term community benefit.

🎉 Great news: Applications are now open for Ontario’s Sport Hosting Program!

Sport tourism is a major economic driver for our province, and our government is proud to help communities unlock the benefits of participating in this growing industry.

Deadline to apply is January… pic.twitter.com/pAXR9NAlCG

— Neil Lumsden (@NeilLumsdenMPP) November 17, 2025

Thousands of Athletes and Volunteers Expected Each Year

On average, the program brings together approximately 9,500 amateur athletes, 3,000 volunteers, and 100,000 community supporters to competitions across Ontario annually.

The current 2025–26 program cycle (Intake II) is investing more than $1.6 million to support 20 national and 10 international amateur events, expected to attract 10,000 athletes and generate $34 million in provincial economic activity.

Sport Leaders Highlight the Program’s Impact

Leaders from national and provincial sport organizations emphasized the significance of the program in developing athletes, enhancing community events, and improving accessibility across Ontario.

Among them:

• Swimming Canada CEO Suzanne Paulins said the program has helped deliver multiple World Aquatics Swimming World Cups and national championships.

• Canada Basketball President & CEO Michael Bartlett highlighted the program’s role in elevating events such as GLOBL JAM and expanding opportunities for young athletes.

• Volleyball Canada President & CEO Mark Eckert noted Ontario’s support for hosting world-calibre volleyball and its impact on national teams.

• Ontario Wheelchair Sports Executive Director Doug Hannum emphasized the program’s importance in strengthening parasport and community legacy efforts.

• Golf Canada COO Garrett Ball said the program elevates national championships and enhances athlete experience and community engagement.

Applications Now Open

Sport organizations and municipalities can apply for Intake I funding through Transfer Payment Ontario until January 12, 2026.

The ministry notes that the program complements other provincial investments, including Ontario’s $200-million Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund, aimed at helping communities upgrade facilities and expand hosting capacity.

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