News ReleaseMinistry of SportPublished: July 31, 2026
Ontario invests $500K to support 2026 National Bank Open in Toronto
The province is contributing $500,000 to help stage the National Bank Open at Sobeys Stadium, Aug 1–13, 2026, aiming to boost tourism, jobs and visibility for women's tennis.
Summary
What’s happening
- Ontario is contributing $500,000 to support the 2026 National Bank Open presented by Rogers at Sobeys Stadium in Toronto.
- The event runs August 1–13, 2026 and is a top-level women’s professional tennis tournament hosted by Tennis Canada.
By the numbers (from the release)
- Expected attendance: more than 200,000 people
- Estimated economic contribution: nearly $60 million in GDP
- Global broadcast reach: more than 70 million viewers
- Ontario has invested $3 million annually through the Ontario Sport Hosting Program since 2018, supporting 200+ events that generated about $230 million in economic activity
- Related programs named in the release: a $500 million Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund and a $3.2 million Inclusive Grassroots Recreation Program for 2025–26
Why it matters
- The funding aims to improve the event experience, attract visitors, support local businesses and create jobs.
- Organizers and provincial sport groups say the tournament helps grow participation in tennis and inspires women and girls in sport.
Related links
- $500 million Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund (CSRIF)
- world-class women’s tennis tournament
- Ontario Sport Hosting Program
- Ontario Expanding Opportunities for Girls in Sport
- Ontario Supports First-Ever Professional Women’s Soccer League Championship
- Women’s sports teams to watch in Ontario
Source: Ontario Newsroom