(London, Ontario) - In celebration of International Women’s Day on March 8th, Tourism London is proud to announce the launch of the 2020 Year of Women & Girls in Sport Grant Program. This $10,000 grant was created to support and promote women and girl’s participation in sport in London, while raising awareness and providing access to information and resources for the issues female athletes around gender equity and equality.
We believe that every woman and girl should have access to participate in sports and feel supported through every stage of their athletic journey. Sports have the power to build confidence, teach life skills, and bring communities together. The City of London is committed to creating fair and equitable opportunities for all, and this grant demonstrates the steps we are taking to make our community a leader in female sport participation.
“Sports are about many things, not the least of which is inclusion. London is home to thousands of female athletes of all ages and abilities, and through this grant, we hope to encourage even more to participate. No individual should be prevented or discouraged from taking part in sports due to their gender. I applaud Tourism London for launching this proactive initiative, and I look forward to cheering on countless women and girls who will no doubt be inspired as a result.”
– Ed Holder – Mayor, City of London
“Tourism London is very excited to launch this grant program. We know that the sport community in London is very strong, and from that community, there have been many women to go on to have international success and inspire the next generation. We hope that this grant program will help to provide opportunities for all women and girls in the London community to participate in sports and ultimately help to foster the tools that it takes for them to achieve their goals in sport, and in life.”
– Zanth Jarvis – Director of Sport Tourism, Tourism London
Local organizations whose sporting events are being hosted in London, Ontario, in the year 2020, and feature at least 50% female participation will be eligible for a grant of either $250 or $500 based on the quality of their submission. The grant will remain open until December 31st, 2020, or until the total $10,000 fund has been allocated. Events that have occurred in 2020 prior to the March 5th launch may also apply. Organizations may apply for funding at multiple events however, first time applicants will be prioritized. Resources have been developed related to this cause that successful events will be required to display and promote to its participants in order to help raise awareness.
To apply, or for more information, please visit www.londontourism.ca/grants.
Zanth Jarvis
Director, Sport Tourism
Tourism London
226-984-8640
zjarvis@londontourism.ca
