Ontario launches “We Stand” campaign to boost domestic tourism, support local businesses

With summer on the horizon and economic uncertainty lingering, the Ontario government is launching a new campaign aimed at encouraging Ontarians to travel within the province and support local tourism operators.

The “We Stand” campaign showcases sweeping views of Ontario’s natural beauty — from Pelee Island to the Lake of the Woods — while spotlighting the province’s top culinary talents, winemakers, and artists. The campaign is part of a broader provincial strategy to bolster domestic tourism in the face of U.S. tariffs and shifting global travel trends.

“At a time when so many families are looking for made-in-Canada adventures, our campaign invites people to explore their own backyard,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “Now more than ever, it is vital that we stand together to support our local communities.”

Ontario’s tourism sector supports more than 325,000 jobs and 92,000 businesses across the province, contributing $32 billion annually to the provincial GDP. The government is investing nearly $200 million this year to strengthen the sector, including funding for more than 350 festivals and events and support for regional tourism agencies.

By Freq 90.5/Oldies 96.7 News staff