A report by the Ontario Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries, suggests that all events created throughout the year by North Bay Pride contributed over four million dollars to the local community.
“We are fortunate in North Bay to have so many community groups that work tirelessly each year to host festivals and events that bring visitors to our city and help to support the local economy,” said Mayor Peter Chirico. “The City of North Bay remains committed to supporting community groups like Pride in making their festivals and events successful.”
See: Stars of 'The Lake' will walk in North Bay Pride parade
And: North Bay Pride schedule unveiled; Feds provide funding
The federal government announced $91,500 in funding last year to the North Bay Pride Committee from the Ministry of Canadian Heritage through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program.
“It is interesting to finally have an idea of what North Bay Pride does for our local economy," says said Jason Maclennan, Communications Director. "We use hotels, restaurants, caterers, venues, and so forth, not to mention people that have travelled to see us and our own local community that comes out.
"Do not misunderstand, that economic impact is important, but we must always remember what the grassroots of Pride is, and with the growing hate both online and in-person, we must remember why pride still exists and that we are part of the community, local economy, we live and work here too. It just goes to show us, that the 2SLGBTQ+ communities can help in the recovery of the local economy when we get the support we need."
