What We Do

The Kenora Hospitality Alliance

The Kenora Hospitality Alliance (KHA) is an alliance of accommodations working together with tourism partners to make Kenora a year-round destination

The KHA runs formally as an incorporated not-for-profit and has been in existence for over 20 years, historically being the only organization solely representing Kenora’s accommodation sector.
In the past, the KHA has focused on supporting the community through funding for events and other local activities as well as marketing for tourism and places to stay in Kenora. Historically, the KHA has collected its
own funds from its members who had voluntarily paid into the KHA in return for marketing and promotional support. The KHA works in collaboration with the City of Kenora, particularly the Tourism and Recreation Department to develop and promote the region as a top destination.

Our main way of giving back to the tourism sector is by providing an opportunity for events to request funding through our funding application. If you are eligible for funding, our KHA members will vote whether you are worthy of receiving funds. See the list below for examples of how we have supported our community!

2025 KHA Funding Application

How KHA Supports Your Community!

Here are just a few examples of some of the ways we have contributed to Kenora!

Harbourfest

$20,000 (annually)

Harbourfest was a mainstay in Kenora and was a tradition like no other, lasting over 35 years! The KHA contributed every year to ensure it was always a success. As time moves on, it has now been rebranded to Shake The Lake. We look forward to what this new energy provides!

Harbourfront Fireworks

$10,000

The KHA has contributed to the spectacular fireworks display on the Harbourfront. It is the pinnacle of summer fun and provides enjoyment for all!

Mudskipper SwimRun Challenge

$5,200

At the same Rabbit Lake location, the SwimRun Challenge takes place. It brings in athletes far and wide to take part in the competition of running and swimming in various distances with the start/finish line at the beautiful Garrow Park.

Kenora Rowing Club Regatta

$6,000

Kenora’s Rowing Club has its base at Rabbit Lake, it’s flat and perfect for rowing. It’s one of the reasons why it now holds one of the annual North West International Association (NWIRA) rowing regattas and why it has sent rowers to the Olympics!

ArtsFEST

$6,000

The event features artists from all disciplines, including visual, performing and literary arts, outdoor exhibits, performances and presentations for people of all ages. It makes for a wonderful experience including Kiefer, who was a finalist on Canada’s Great Canadian Pottery Show! Our funds helped the new event get off the ground and has been a mainstay ever since!

StayInKenora 100

$2,000

Annually in February, the KHA sponsors their winter snowmachine race! It provides 100 laps of action! It is the ultimate blend of endurance, speed, and focus to see who can reach the finish line first!

Lake of the Woods Speedway

$55,000

Since 2018, when the MAT was implemented, the Lake of the Woods Speedway was one of the first to come forward for funding requests. Since then, the KHA has contributed over $55,000. This has helped them get to where they are today, becoming a year-round venue!

Sunset Trail Riders

$1,500

Providing funds for their map which ultimately gives them funds to ensure the winter trails are perfectly groomed for the snow machines to take full advantage of!

Coney Island Shuttle Service

$5,000

Coney Island is a boat access only location with an incredible beach. Providing funds for a shuttle service to make it accessible and cost friendly for locals and tourists alike is fundamental in ensuring enjoyment for all! If you are interested in visiting the island, check out https://www.lakeofthewoodsmarina.ca/

Vernon Nature Trails

$2,500 + $125,000 (via NOHFC)

Initially, we gave funds to redevelop their aging signage infrastructure but then the opportunity came up to support them through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) grant. This project is still ongoing but includes replacing their old boat dock, expanding their parking lot due to the increased demand, resurfacing the boardwalk, rebuilding the “Lookout 1” approach and staircase, and much more!

Kenora Bass International (KBI)

$20,000

The KHA was able to provide tournament level weight scales for the Kenora Bass International. How can you have a fishing tournament without accurate weight scales?! One of the key event weekends in Kenora with international recognition. We have contributed in other years as well.

Want to get involved?

Winter Classics is an annual event, so if you or your company is interested in getting involved, email us at khawinterclassic@gmail.com. Registration for next year’s tourney will be made available later in the year.

Fill the Form to be a Donor

Thank You to Our Volunteers!

Thank you to our amazing volunteers at our events and everyone who come out to enjoy the fun!

A job well done, and we already look forward to the next one!