News
Call for Projects from Tourisme Montréal
Jean Giguère
Author :
WikiResidence
Source :
22/08/25
Tourisme Montréal has announced the opening of the Program for Aid to Festivals, Events, and Exhibitions (PAFEE) for events starting between January 1 and June 30, 2026.
Promoters can submit their applications until September 15, 2025, at 4:59 p.m., and the responses will be announced in December 2025.
In Montreal, the excitement of festivals and events is one of the cornerstones of its identity and international appeal.
Behind this vitality is strategic support, notably the Program for Aid to Festivals and Events (PAEF) from Tourisme Montréal.
An Investment in Reputation and Diversity
The PAEF is not just a simple grant; it is a financial lever intended for events and festivals that demonstrate significant tourism performance potential.
The Program for Aid to Festivals and Events (PAEF) from Tourisme Montréal aims to strengthen the appeal of the Montreal destination by financially supporting events that have a significant tourist reach.
The program has evolved significantly over the years to adapt to industry trends and needs, with distinct components for different types of events.
Figures That Show a Major Impact
The importance of this sector for Montreal is reflected in attendance figures and direct and indirect economic benefits. Festivals are powerful economic drivers that attract local and international visitors.
All of Montreal's maisons de la culture welcomed more than 1.5 million visitors in 2024, an indicator of the public's appetite for culture and events.
Studies have shown that certain major festivals have a considerable financial impact. For example, the Montreal International Jazz Festival has already generated $48.5M in economic benefits.
For the 17 major events analyzed in Greater Montreal, tourists from outside Quebec, although representing only 14% of participants, are responsible for 54% of total expenditures, which is more than 148 million dollars.
This data highlights the crucial importance of tourist clientele for the survival and development of these events.
Economic Contributions and Importance for the Community
Support for creation and employment: The program encourages the Montreal festival ecosystem by providing a financial lever for major international and national events. It contributes to the development and influence of local talent and the creation of jobs in the cultural and tourism sectors.
Outreach and appeal: The supported events contribute to positioning Montreal as a global cultural and festive metropolis. They attract visitors and encourage tourism offerings throughout the four seasons.
Indirect benefits: The financial aid granted helps cover costs related to project production, promotion, and administration. This has indirect benefits for other sectors of the economy, such as hospitality, restaurants, and retail, which benefit from the high attendance at the festivals.
Innovation: The program encourages innovation and projects that incorporate sustainable development and eco-responsible criteria, thus aligning with international best practices.
Community vitality: In addition to the economic benefits, these events strengthen the social fabric by offering citizens places to meet and share cultural experiences.
The Program for Aid to Festivals and Events (PAEF) from Tourisme Montréal plays a crucial role in the development of the metropolis's event ecosystem.
It helps attract millions of visitors, generate significant economic benefits, and strengthen the city's international reputation, while enriching the community life of Montrealers.
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