[ad_1]
Indigenous tourism plays a crucial role in advancing economic reconciliation and sharing Indigenous cultures and histories throughout Canada. This is why the Government of Canada prioritizes its development, collaborating closely with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. One significant initiative is the Indigenous Tourism Fund (ITF), which commits $20 million to both large and small Indigenous-led projects. In November 2023, the ITF launched its first initiative, the Micro and Small Business Stream, supporting 145 projects nationwide.
Recently, the Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, unveiled the ITF’s Signature Indigenous Tourism Experiences Stream (SITES). This new stream, funded with $10 million, aims to support major Indigenous tourism projects by offering contributions ranging from $500,000 to $1.25 million. These projects will enhance existing tourism destinations situated near vital cultural and natural sites within Indigenous communities. Minister Ferrada announced this at the 2024 Indigenous Prosperity Forum.
This allocation, a part of the overarching $20 million ITF, is dedicated to establishing marquee experiences that define tourism destinations in Indigenous areas and to developing necessary tourism infrastructure and services. The announcement reiterates the government’s dedication to collaborating with Indigenous leaders and communities to expand Indigenous tourism.
The National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) will administer SITES. As an umbrella organization for over 50 Indigenous financial institutions with more than 35 years of experience in Indigenous economic development, NACCA has facilitated $3.3 billion in loans to Indigenous businesses. Its extensive network and proven expertise make it a suitable partner for this Indigenous-led initiative.
SITES aims to enhance the accessibility of Indigenous tourism sites, promote longer stays, and increase spending. It will prioritize projects that can become focal points for larger tourism areas and attract additional financing. A committee led by NACCA, including members from the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada and various provincial and territorial Indigenous tourism bodies, will help identify and assess projects. This committee will ensure that the projects positively impact communities and attract further investments. NACCA will manage the application and funding process, oversee project progress, and make final funding decisions.
Quotes
“Indigenous tourism has the power to advance economic reconciliation while allowing Indigenous communities to share their cultures and histories. That’s why helping it grow and thrive is one of our top priorities. Through this Indigenous-led process, we are supporting communities, and the tourism businesses in those communities, in making their own decisions and developing tourism at their own pace. I am so excited to see how this funding will make ‘signature projects’ a reality in so many Indigenous communities.”
– The Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec
“NACCA is pleased to oversee the implementation of the Signature Indigenous Tourism Experiences Stream (SITES) programming, aimed at enhancing tourism offerings within First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities. Our ISO 9001 certification underscores our commitment to quality and reinforces our reputation as a trusted partner of the Government of Canada. With a rich history and extensive experience in Indigenous lending and business support across all sectors of the economy, NACCA and the network of Indigenous financial institutions are well equipped to assist Indigenous businesses. NACCA takes great pride in helping Indigenous businesses feature vibrant cultures while bolstering local economies through tourism.”
– Shannin Metatawabin, CEO, National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association
The post Government Launches Significant Support for Indigenous Tourism Projects appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
[ad_2]
Source link
