Tourism Oxford, Community Futures Oxford and Rural Oxford Economic Development Corporation are pleased to announce the recipients of the 2025 Tourism Innovation Grant. Following a thorough review and scoring process, five local businesses were selected as finalists. The finalists presented to our objective judging panel on March 25 followed by a Q&A. Our judges, Carol Greenwood VP, Operations & Partnerships, Tourism Industry Association of Ontario and Joanne Wolnik, Executive Director, Ontario’s Southwest were impressed with the passion of the presenters.
“The passion and creativity of this year’s finalists were truly inspiring. Their innovative ideas are shaping the future of tourism in Oxford County & Ontario’s Southwest, and we’re thrilled to see those visions to life. The Oxford Tourism Innovation Grant isn’t just an investment into individual businesses, it’s about helping our whole tourism community grow and thrive,” said Joanne Wolnik.
“The focus in Oxford County is one that is to be admired. Collaboration with the community to ensure success of others allows for warmth and service to those visiting. Once again, this year, the task of choosing the award recipients inspired me to ensure I make a point of stopping by each soon, because I want to experience them myself,” said Carol Greenwood. “Thank you, Oxford County, for providing the support and the foundation to allow entrepreneurs to deliver their dreams, impact the economic growth of tourism, while enriching your community.”
Each recipient receives a grant of $3,000 to help develop and complete a new tourism project in 2025. Applications were reviewed based on several criteria including creativity, ability to develop marketing skills, DEI, financial and community impact and market demand.
When combined, the three award-winning projects will support eight local suppliers, welcome many visitors in 2025, while investing more than $13,000 into the Oxford County economy.
Alisha Wilson of Transitions Equine Assisted Learning is making her space more accessible and adding a medicine garden among other improvements. She has been working with Eric G. Martin, a Mohawk and Chippewa Native from Six Nations Reserve near Brantford, Ontario, who carries the name Gwiish Koshi Nodinin (Whispering Windz) and is a member of the Bear Clan. Their partnership provides opportunities to learn about indigenous customs in a welcoming and respectful environment.
Thessaly Sammon, founder of Jarful Local Refillery, will be adding a Scent Your Own station and is adding workshops where people can create their own custom blend of essential oils, learn the basics of product scenting and leave with a custom scent of their own.
Katharina Otulak of Fair/Square Inc. will use the funds to revive Tasting Events elevating them into an inclusive and interactive plant-based Tasting Event that showcases fresh, seasonal produce from Oxford County in a thoughtfully curated four-course menu. Each course will be paired with engaging educational insights into the environmental and health benefits of plant-based and locally sourced ingredients. To enhance the experience, select courses will invite diners to personalize their dishes with a variety of garnishes, fostering a hands-on connection with their food.