Over $2.3 million for over 20 projects fuels growth in tourism and local economies
London, ON – From lively cityscapes to picturesque small towns, southern Ontario is a year-round destination for travellers. Visitors come to experience the energy of world-famous festivals, explore fascinating museums and galleries, and indulge in a culinary scene that delights every palate. Tourism is more than unforgettable adventures it is a powerful driver of local jobs and economic growth, bringing communities to life and making southern Ontario a must-visit destination.
Today, the Honourable Ruby Sahota, Minister of Democratic Institutions and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), visited the newly opened London Children’s Museum at its state-of-the-art 100 Kellogg Lane facility. Joined by Peter Fragiskatos, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, and MP for London North Centre; as well as Arielle Kayabaga, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Small Business and MP for London West, Minister Sahota explored the museum’s exciting new space, which is inspiring young minds in new ways since opening in January 2025.
With a $200,000-investment through the Tourism Growth Program, the London Children’s Museum is transforming the way families learn and play. This funding supports the addition of eight brand-new permanent exhibits—doubling the museum’s previous space—and enhances the visitor experience with quiet areas, fully accessible washrooms, and dedicated spaces for travelling exhibits. This exciting expansion is drawing families, educators and visitors from near and far, making 100 Kellogg Lane a premier destination for exploration and discovery.
Additionally, with a $130,000-investment, the Grand Theatre is bringing the magic of live theatre to life with its production of Waitress. In partnership with Theatre Aquarius, this beloved musical will take the stage in London from March 25 to April 12, 2025, before moving to Hamilton from April 30 to May 17, 2025. Beyond delivering an unforgettable theatrical experience, the production is expected to attract up to 4,500 domestic tourists, providing a significant boost to the local economy and supporting businesses in both cities.
In total, Minister Sahota announced a combined investment of over $2.3 million for 23 organizations that are enhancing tourism offerings throughout southern Ontario. More information on the projects is included in the backgrounder.
Through these investments, the Government of Canada is supporting businesses and organizations that bring visitors to communities across southern Ontario and position Canada as an all-seasons destination of choice, which drives local economic growth.
Quotes
“Our government is boosting southern Ontario’s tourism to not only create new spaces but also good-paying, valuable jobs that fuel local economies. Through programs like the Tourism Growth Program, we are drawing even more visitors to our communities, helping drive local prosperity and share the beauty of southern Ontario.”
– The Honourable Ruby Sahota, Minister of Democratic Institutions and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario)
“The tourism sector in southern Ontario is a critical economic driver, providing employment for a diverse range of Canadians. The Government of Canada, through the Tourism Growth Program, is bolstering local organizations such as the London Children’s Museum and Grand Theatre. Investments in this sector help attract a greater number of visitors from around the globe to experience everything southern Ontario has to offer.”
– The Honourable Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec
“Investments in the London Children’s Museum, the Grand Theatre boost local tourism, and lay the groundwork for longevity in this key sector for London and across southern Ontario. Our funding for tourism results in further investment back into our local economies.”
– Peter Fragiskatos, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities and Member of Parliament for London North Centre
“The work being done to promote tourism in London and southern Ontario fosters vibrant communities, strong economies and prosperous jobs today, and for future generations. The impact of today’s investments also has spillover benefits for our small businesses and hospitality sector.”
– Arielle Kayabaga, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Small Business and Member of Parliament for London West
“The Tourism Growth Program has been instrumental in opening the doors of the new London Children’s Museum. This investment not only supports tourism and economic growth in our community, but also enriches the lives of children and families across our region. We are deeply grateful for the support of FedDev Ontario in helping continue the legacy of the London Children’s Museum in our new home and for their commitment to building a brighter future for our community and children.”
– Kate Ledgley, Executive Director, London Children’s Museum
“The Grand Theatre is thrilled to have the funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario to help us expand the tourism reach for our production of ‘Waitress’. This support will help us attract more people to the Grand Theatre and to London’s downtown core.”
– Lyndee Hansen, Executive Director, Grand Theatre
Quick facts
- Incorporated in 1977, the London Children’s Museum, a not-for-profit organization, provides hands-on learning experiences for visitors to explore history and celebrate art and culture. The London Children’s Museum opened its new state-of-the-art facility at 100 Kellogg Lane in January 2025.
- Incorporated in 1973, the Grand Theatre, a not-for-profit regional theatre company, is a leading cultural hub in southwestern Ontario located in the heart of downtown London.
- Canada’s regional development agencies are delivering the $108-million Tourism Growth Program, over three years, to support businesses and organizations to help diversify regional economies.
- Since 2015, the Government of Canada, through FedDev Ontario, has invested over $400 million in over 1,000 tourism-related businesses and organizations.
