The Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission (CEDC) is expanding its Tourism Muralscape Initiative, with an additional $50,000 in funding available through the Tourism Development Fund (TDF) to support new outdoor murals across the city.
Originally launched in 2024 as a pilot program, the Muralscape Initiative has enhanced Thunder Bay’s public art landscape while supporting local artists, businesses, and community organizations. Building on its early success, funding eight murals across the city, the CEDC is now expanding the program to further strengthen street-art tourism and contribute to vibrant placemaking efforts throughout the community.
“The initial rollout of the Muralscape Initiative demonstrated the powerful role public art plays in shaping a community’s identity and enhancing the visitor experience,” said Jamie Taylor, CEO, Thunder Bay CEDC. “This next phase builds on that success by supporting more projects that bring creativity into public spaces and encourage residents and visitors to explore the city.”
Through the expanded intake, eligible businesses and organizations can apply for up to $5,000 per project to install outdoor murals at fixed locations within Thunder Bay city limits. Successful applicants will have the opportunity to collaborate with Art and Culture Consultant Lora Northway, a long-time advocate for Thunder Bay’s arts and culture sector.
“Murals are an increasingly important part of how visitors experience a destination,” said Paul Pepe, Manager, Tourism Thunder Bay. “They create shareable moments, tell the stories of our community, and inspire people to discover neighbourhoods.”
Murals funded through the CEDC Tourism Development Fund will also be featured on the Tourism Driftscape Tour app, which highlights curated mural tours across both the north and south sides of the city.
Applications are now open. Interested applicants are encouraged to visit the Visit Thunder Bay website for full program details and application information. https://www.visitthunderbay.com/en/industry-trade/tourism-muralscape-initiative.aspx
