Ontario Parks is looking for more ways to add innovative recreation experiences for people to enjoy at provincial parks, while also supporting local businesses, jobs and the provincial park system. That’s why we are inviting private, public and Indigenous businesses, non-profit organizations, community groups, and entrepreneurs to share their most innovative ideas for new experiences to incorporate in Ontario Parks.
Interested individuals and organizations should consider the possibility of operating their business or service at provincial parks, with the goal of generating revenue for itself and for the use and care of Ontario Parks. The ideas with the highest potential may receive seed funding during future procurement.
The proposed activities and services should bring new visitors, particularly in non-peak seasons and in parks that have capacity to accept more visitors to avoid overcrowding. Proposals must also be consistent with applicable provincial legislation and individual park management plans, which specify what activities can take place within a provincial park while keeping the park’s ecology and environment protected.
Examples could include, but are not limited to:
- · A packaged park experience that offered a learning hike with a gourmet picnic.
- · An artisan offering classes in a park.
- · A fun experience or service for beach goers, hikers or visitors interested in plant and animal life.
- · An innovative solution that would improve accessibility of parks.
Visit the Ontario Tenders Portal (https://ontariotenders.app.jaggaer.com; search under “current opportunities”) to learn more about the Request for Information for Innovation Recreation Experiences and Services at Ontario Parks. Submissions will be accepted until 11:00 a.m. on March 4, 2022.
We’re looking forward to building relationships with partners, including those from your communities, to bring exciting new ideas to Ontario Parks.
Sincerely,
David Piccini
Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks