Reading Time: 2 minutes
The Government of Canada recognizes the importance of Indigenous tourism in advancing reconciliation and creating employment opportunities in communities across the country. In partnership with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, the government is committed to supporting the growth of this vital sector. Working alongside the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC), the government has launched the $10 million Indigenous Tourism Fund (ITF) Micro and Small Business Stream (MSBS), which provides direct financial support to Indigenous tourism enterprises.
Today, the Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, announced the third group of businesses to benefit from the MSBS. In this round, $1.01 million in federal funding, administered by ITAC, has been awarded to 41 Indigenous tourism businesses from across Canada.
This announcement builds on previous rounds of funding support:
Round 1: Provided approximately $1.94 million to 78 Indigenous tourism businesses.
Round 2: Awarded about $1.67 million to 67 businesses.
To date, the MSBS has delivered nearly $4.6 million in support to 186 Indigenous tourism businesses. This funding stream is designed to help Indigenous businesses become market-ready, export-ready, and sustainable in the long term.
The continued investment in Indigenous tourism underscores the government’s commitment to empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs and communities. By equipping these businesses with the resources and support they need, the government aims to foster a thriving and resilient Indigenous tourism industry that enhances Canada’s cultural diversity and offers unique experiences to visitors from around the world.
The Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec “Indigenous tourism is a powerful driver of economic growth and a vital part of our national identity, and that’s why helping it grow and thrive is one of our top priorities. By supporting Indigenous-led tourism initiatives, we are supporting communities in making their own decisions and developing tourism at their own pace, while promoting cultural preservation and economic reconciliation. This latest round of funding demonstrates our ongoing commitment to empowering Indigenous communities and enhancing tourism offerings in Canada.”
Quick Facts:
Before the pandemic, Indigenous tourism was the fastest-growing segment of the Canadian tourism market, making significant strides in job creation and contributions to Canada’s GDP.
The Indigenous tourism industry faced severe challenges during the pandemic but is now on the path to recovery. According to the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC), the industry generated $1.86 billion in direct GDP and supported 39,000 jobs as of 2022.
The Government of Canada’s 2022 budget allocated $20 million to the Indigenous Tourism Fund to support the industry’s recovery from the pandemic.
Additionally, Budget 2024 announced $2.5 million for the 2024–25 fiscal year to continue supporting the Indigenous tourism industry through ITAC.
Associated Links:
Indigenous Tourism Fund
Federal Tourism Growth Strategy
The Canadian Tourism Sector
The post Government Of Canada Launches $10 Million Indigenous Tourism Fund to Drive Economic Growth appeared first on Travel And Tour World.