Tournament Expected to Draw More Than 130,000 Fans and Generate Significant Economic Benefits
The Ontario government is investing $1.5 million to support the 2026 RBC Canadian Open at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley in Caledon, as the province continues to position itself as a leading destination for major sporting events and tourism-driven economic activity.
The provincial funding announcement, made Wednesday by the Ministry of Sport, comes as organizers prepare for one of Canada’s most prominent golf tournaments, which is expected to attract more than 130,000 attendees and generate approximately $84 million in economic activity across Ontario’s tourism, hospitality and event sectors.
The RBC Canadian Open, first established in 1904, is the third-oldest continuously running tournament on the PGA Tour and remains a marquee event on Canada’s sports calendar. Provincial officials said the investment forms part of Ontario’s broader strategy to protect and promote the province’s culture and heritage while supporting events that create jobs and attract international visitors.
Province Positions Ontario as Global Sports Destination
“For over 100 years, the RBC Canadian Open has been a cornerstone of the Canadian sport calendar, and Ontario is proud to host this tradition once again,” said Neil Lumsden, Ontario’s Minister of Sport. “Our government’s investment will help deliver an exceptional experience for fans, support good-paying jobs and reinforce why Ontario is where the world comes to compete.”
Officials noted that the tournament has become an increasingly important economic engine for the province. In 2025, the event generated more than $65 million in economic activity while drawing crowds exceeding 130,000 spectators.
The 2026 edition is expected to deliver even broader economic benefits, with organizers projecting a nationwide impact of approximately $100 million for Canada.
Support for Tourism and Local Businesses
Provincial leaders said the tournament will provide a boost for local businesses, hotels, restaurants and tourism operators in Caledon and the surrounding region.
“The RBC Canadian Open is more than a premier sporting event. It’s a major tourism and economic driver that brings visitors to our communities, supports local jobs and showcases Ontario on a global stage,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming.
“Through Experience Ontario 2026, our government is proud to support events like the RBC Canadian Open that strengthen Ontario’s tourism economy, create memorable experiences for fans and reinforce Ontario as a world-class destination for sports and entertainment.”
In addition to the Ministry of Sport’s contribution, Ontario’s Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming is providing $125,000 to the event through the 2026 Experience Ontario Program.
Golf Canada Praises Provincial Partnership
Golf Canada CEO Laurence Applebaum said Ontario’s continued support has been instrumental in helping elevate the national championship and strengthen its impact across the country.
“The Province of Ontario has been an incredible partner to golf, and we are extremely appreciative of the continued support of Premier Ford, Minister Lumsden and their entire teams with their meaningful investment into enhancing the RBC Canadian Open,” said Applebaum.
“Hosting Canada’s National Open Championship in Ontario has been extremely impactful for participating athletes, host venues, for our economy and for all the fans and event enthusiasts who make the RBC Canadian Open a significant event on the Canadian sport landscape.”
The tournament’s return to TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley for a second consecutive year is also expected to further elevate Caledon’s profile as a destination for major sporting events.
“Hosting the 2026 RBC Canadian Open at TPC Toronto Osprey Valley for a second year in a row is an exciting opportunity for Caledon and communities across our region,” said Sylvia Jones.
“This investment will help attract visitors from across Canada and around the world, support local businesses and tourism operators and showcase Dufferin-Caledon as a premier destination for world-class sporting events.”
Broader Investments in Sport and Recreation
The funding announcement aligns with Ontario’s broader investments in sport and recreation infrastructure and programming across the province.
In 2025, Ontario invested more than $54 million in the sport and recreation industry. The province has also committed $500 million through the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund (CSRIF), aimed at revitalizing existing facilities and building new community sport and recreation spaces.
Ontario additionally supports national and international amateur sporting events through the Ontario Sport Hosting Program, which helps communities attract competitions that stimulate tourism and provide athletes with elite-level experience.
Provincial officials said continued investment in high-profile sporting events such as the RBC Canadian Open reflects Ontario’s efforts to strengthen tourism, support local economies and reinforce the province’s standing as a global destination for sports and entertainment.