Lincoln, ON – (October 30, 2023) – The Town of Lincoln is thrilled to announce the approval of a $25,000 grant from the 2023 Niagara Benchlands Destination Development Fund, supporting six successful applicants in the tourism sector. This funding aims to assist local tourism-based businesses in the development, enhancement, and expansion of tourism products and offerings in the Niagara Benchlands destination.
Launched in 2022 and continuing into 2023, the Niagara Benchlands Destination Development Fund aims to enhance awareness of the Niagara Benchlands tourism destination and promote sustainable economic growth, job creation, and continued prosperity in Lincoln's tourism sector.
"The 2023 Niagara Benchlands Destination Development Fund marks a significant step forward in our commitment to enhancing the tourism experience in the Niagara Benchlands," said Town of Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton. “We are excited to see the benefits that this funding program will bring to our local businesses and community.”
Following the application deadline, the Evaluation Committee, comprised of representatives from Town of Lincoln Council, City of St. Catharines Tourism, and Town Staff, meticulously reviewed 19 eligible applications from 17 organizations. The project eligibility categories, established by Economic Development staff, include support for new tourism events, expansion of existing programming, the development of new tourism products, and feasibility studies that investigate increased visitation and visitor spending.
The approved allocation of $25,000 will be distributed between six successful applicants, each contributing to the growth and vibrancy of the Niagara Benchlands. The recipients and their projects include:
- Cherry Lane Frozen Fruits: BlossomFest
- Creekside Estate Winery: Creekside Fallidays Festival
- Fielding Estate Winery: Dome Experience Enhancements
- Newark Brewing Company: Concert Renovations
- Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery: Get Wrapped Up
- Vineland Estates Winery: E-Bike Tours of The Niagara Benchlands
These diverse projects range from enhancing winery offerings and hosting festivals to supporting accessible events and environmental initiatives, all contributing to the development and promotion of the Niagara Benchlands.
"As the Niagara Benchlands tourism destination continues to grow, we are committed to supporting these exciting projects that contribute to the growth and vibrancy of our community," said Councillor JD Pachereva, Chair of the Economic Development Committee. "These projects align with our commitment to fostering a diverse and sustainable tourism landscape in Lincoln."
Paul Di Ianni, Director of Economic Development and Communications, added, "By strategically allocating funds to these impactful tourism-related projects, the Town aims to not only support our local businesses but also to enhance the overall tourism experience in the Niagara Benchlands, reinforcing its position as a thriving and vibrant destination. The Town is excited about the positive economic and cultural contributions these projects will make to our community, further solidifying Lincoln's status as a premier tourism destination."
For more information on the Niagara Benchlands Destination Development Fund, visit our website.
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For media inquiries, contact:
Liliana Busnello
Manager of Corporate Communications
Town of Lincoln
Direct: 905-563-2799 ext. 230