Northern Bruce Peninsula Festivals and Events

Shane Sargant I have worked for Municipal Governments as a,Tourism and Festival and Event Marketing Manager for 9 years. In addition, I have spent 10 years with non-profit organizations and currently operate my own Event Communications Company called Sargant Event Communications Inc. I possess a post graduate diploma in Special Events and a Diploma Tourism Management. I am certified in sponsorship sales through the International Marketing Group. I was elected to the Ontario Board of Directors for Festivals and Events Ontario in 2004 holding the portfolio of corporate sponsorship. Along with my education, I have 20 years experience with major national and local sponsorships, grant writing, fundraising, special events and volunteer management. Currently my major clients are the Sauble Beach Chamber of Commerce, Wiarton Chamber of Commerce, Wiarton BIA, and the Town of South Bruce Peninsula and I am currently teaching project management at Georgian College.

Why Festivals and Events ? According to Festivals and Events Ontario, festivals and events are huge contributors to local economies in this province. The average major festival in Ontario contributes 22 million dollars to their local economy. It generates 11 million in taxes creating 700 full time jobs. The trend is that more and more festival events and municipalities are trying to capitalize on this by hiring full time or contract staff to give communities the biggest bang for their buck. The industry is growing. There is a very strong need for professional event planners.

Why Enhancing the Chi Cheemaun Festival Provides a multiplier effect where many businesses, including non-tourism industries, benefit economically. Brings in “New Money” that creates growth in the community. Increases the tax base that helps pay for community amenities and services. Creates a variety of business opportunities for Entrepreneurs. Provides jobs and experience for entry level workers. Promotes business development. Today's visitor might be tomorrow’s investor, something which is seen more often in rural areas. Boosts appearance and makes the community visually appealing.

Key Benefits Supports the economic development study and plan Supports local tourism and marketing efforts Reinforces the area’s image as Ontario's natural retreat Promotes charities, community groups and organizations Promotes and showcases local facilities, parks, shopping, attractions and local talent Positive economic impact on the community Shows that the area is a caring community Supports local restaurants, service groups and cultural centers Promotes local and national artists through music Ties in with and provides economic spin off for local business, food, retail, accommodations and other service clubs Brings awareness to community groups (showcasing what they bring to a community) while raising money for community groups and charities Provides another great event for locals Promotes sports recreation Showcases the area’s civic community pride Increases return visits to the area Positive media, marketing, promotion

Opportunity Sargant Events was able to generate over $60,000 in Corporate Sponsorship along with over $150,000 in in-kind sponsorship and over $ 238,000 in government grants in its first year with the Town of South Bruce Peninsula. According to Festivals and Events Ontario the year round events would have generated more than $9 million directly into the local economy. What Sargant Events can do for you! Apply for marketing funding OCAF - $10,000 OTMP - $10,000 Apply for operational funding JCP – One person full time includes, rent, computer, milage, phone, internet ect - $100,000 Programming for events Celebrate Ontario - $40,000 Celebrate Canada - $10,000 Trillium Foundation - $15,000 Red Grant - Northern Ontario - Other as they become available Sponsorship sales Chi Cheemaun Festival $20,000 goal

Added value to the Festival Have a main stage Friday night tribute to the 50’60’s with Elvis and the Beatles the show that never was. Saturday night headline show with Kim Mitchell Sunday jazz and blues. Each morning kids entertainment Add to Buskers Boat Parade of Lights with fireworks Star watching Family movie night