Operators of tourist-friendly spaces across Nova Scotia will be on the receiving end of a $18.2-million restart package as part of the province’s phased reopening strategy.

The tourism industry lost $1.6 billion in revenue in 2020. The government relief, announced yesterday, features two new grant programs, marketing support, more outdoor public attractions, and free admission to 28 sites, including provincial museums and art galleries.

“We want Nova Scotians and visitors to choose to spend their vacation time and dollars here,” said Labi Kousoulis, minister of inclusive economic growth and minister responsible for Tourism Nova Scotia. “We’ve worked with the sector and developed a restart package that will re-energize communities and help our operators prepare to open their doors and attract customers to the many unique experiences that Nova Scotia has to offer.”

Grant programs for Nova Scotia operators

The Tourism Accommodations Restart Customer Attraction Program will help registered tourism accommodations develop and implement tailored marketing activities to encourage overnight stays. Eligible operators will receive a grant of $1,000 per room for the first 10 rooms and $500 per room for each additional room.

The Small Tourism Operators Restart Program will offer a one-time grant payment of $5,000 to help tourism businesses that were affected by COVID-19 restrictions but were not eligible for earlier provincial programs. The grant will help operators with advertising and other restart expenses such as purchasing personal protective equipment and cleaning supplies.

Applications for both programs open June 23.

The province will also invest $3 million this year in its marketing campaigns, designed to attract visitors through television advertising, videos, radio spots, social media, billboards, display ads and search marketing tactics.

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