Tbaytel Secures Naming Rights for Thunder Bay’s New Indoor Turf Facility

Thunder Bay City Council has approved a 10-year naming rights agreement with Tbaytel for the municipality’s new Multi-Use Indoor Turf Facility, which will now be known as the Tbaytel Multiplex. Under the terms of the agreement, Tbaytel will contribute $50,000 annually for the duration of the contract, supporting the city’s investment in community recreation infrastructure.

The name was proposed by Tbaytel and reviewed through the City’s internal and external circulation process under the Civic Naming of Streets, Buildings, Structures and Recreational Facilities Policy. Council voted unanimously in favour of the proposal, with two councillors absent during the vote.

City officials said the agreement reflects Thunder Bay’s broader strategy to use corporate sponsorships and naming rights to fund municipal programs and facilities. The approach allows the City to generate non-tax revenue and reduce reliance on traditional funding sources while strengthening community partnerships.

Thunder Bay’s Sponsorship and Naming Rights Policy provides the framework for identifying and managing these partnerships. The policy encourages collaboration with businesses and organizations that share the City’s values and commitment to community development. It outlines procedures for evaluating proposals, negotiating agreements, and ensuring that naming partnerships are transparent, equitable, and consistent with municipal objectives.

In this case, City Council approved an exception to the standard process in August, permitting administration to negotiate directly with Tbaytel rather than publicly advertise the opportunity. The decision recognized Tbaytel’s position as a locally owned telecommunications provider and long-standing community supporter.

The adoption of this policy in recent years has signaled a more proactive approach to sponsorship opportunities in Thunder Bay. The City has explored similar partnerships for other civic assets, including Fort William Gardens and other recreation facilities, as part of a broader effort to strengthen municipal finances through innovative revenue sources.