The Ontario Trails Council (OTC) is a volunteer-led, charitable organization that serves as the provincial umbrella for all things trail-related. Because the OTC receives no core government funding, it relies heavily on memberships, donations, and strategic partnerships.

Support typically comes from groups that benefit from the infrastructure, tourism, or health impacts of Ontario’s trail systems. Here is a breakdown of the types of groups that should—and often do—financially support the OTC:

1. Municipalities and Conservation Authorities

As the owners and managers of much of the province's trail infrastructure, these groups benefit from the OTC's advocacy for funding and standardized safety practices.

• Why they support: Access to best practices for risk management, trail design, and legislative updates (like the Ontario Trails Act).

• Examples: Local town councils, regional municipalities, and the 36 Conservation Authorities across Ontario.

2. Tourism and Economic Development Agencies

Trails are major drivers for "cycle-tourism," hiking excursions, and snowmobiling, which bring significant revenue to rural and northern communities.

• Why they support: The OTC helps market these trails to an international audience, increasing "heads-in-beds" and local spending.

• Examples: Regional Tourism Organizations (RTOs), Chambers of Commerce, and Business Improvement Areas (BIAs).

3. Recreational Clubs and User Groups

The OTC represents a massive diversity of trail users. Clubs provide support to ensure their specific activity has a seat at the table during provincial planning.

• Why they support: To ensure multi-use trail connectivity and safety for their specific members.

• Examples: Hiking clubs (e.g., Bruce Trail Conservancy), ATV and snowmobile federations (e.g., OFSC), cycling associations, and equestrian groups.

4. Health and Wellness Organizations

Trails are critical public health infrastructure. Groups focused on preventative medicine and mental health have a vested interest in the OTC’s success.

• Why they support: To promote active transportation and "green exercise" as a way to reduce provincial healthcare costs.

• Examples: Public Health Units, mental health charities (like the CMHA via initiatives like Mood Walks), and older adult centres.

5. Private Sector Partners (Outdoor Industry)

Businesses that sell gear, clothing, or experiences related to the outdoors benefit directly from the existence of high-quality, safe trails.

• Why they support: It is a form of "corporate social responsibility" that directly sustains their customer base.

• Examples: Outdoor retailers (like MEC or Sail), bike shops, guide services, and insurance companies specializing in recreational liability.

6. Environmental and Land Trust Foundations

Since trails often act as buffers for conservation and educational tools for nature appreciation, environmental groups frequently partner with the OTC.

• Why they support: To ensure trail development is sustainable and protects sensitive habitats rather than damaging them.

• Examples: Ontario Nature, the Greenbelt Foundation, and local land trusts.

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Note: If you are part of a group looking to support them, the OTC offers several Membership Tiers ranging from individual "Trail Hero" donations to full "Lead Organization" memberships that include voting rights and professional services.