Indigenous communities in Canada will receive a boost with a US$10 million (R188,2m) fund to support their businesses and create more authentic experiences for travellers.
Speaking on the launch of the Micro and Small Business Stream (MSBS), Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and the Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, says indigenous tourism businesses are perfectly positioned to thrive in the years to come.
“That’s why the growth of indigenous tourism is one of my top priorities as minister. Today’s announcement means new, concrete support for the small businesses at the heart of this industry. We’ll keep working with First Nations, Inuit and Métis stakeholders to support indigenous tourism because it creates jobs, advances self-determination and helps us walk the road of reconciliation, together.”
The MSBS forms part of the $20 million (R376,4m) Indigenous Tourism Fund (ITF) announced for the country’s 2022 budget. It will be rolled out in partnership with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) and indigenous tourism bodies and will offer direct support to small businesses.
Keith Henry, President and CEO of ITAC, explains that the MSBS will work to “enhance indigenous tourism services and elevate their enterprises to offer unparalleled authentic experiences to visitors in Canada”. It will also identify opportunities for indigenous tourism to improve their offerings.
“The Government of Canada’s selection of ITAC to support the growth and recovery of indigenous tourism micro and small businesses after the COVID-19 pandemic marks a noteworthy milestone in our collaborative efforts to foster the development of indigenous tourism in Canada,” says Henry.
