BC – Indigenous businesses and communities throughout British Columbia will benefit from a federal government grant of $2.25 million given to the Aboriginal Tourism Association of British Columbia (AtBC). This support will promote and enhance authentic Indigenous tourism experiences for visitors to BC.
The funding was announced at the Impact Sustainability Travel and Tourism Conference by Bardish Chagger, Minister of Small Business and Tourism, on behalf of Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development
“Indigenous tourism experiences offer visitors from around the world a tremendous opportunity to learn more about the rich, proud cultural heritage of the original peoples of this land,” Chagger said.
“It also helps create good jobs and new opportunities for indigenous communities, from coast to coast to coast. As our largest service export, and largest employer of youth, Canada’s tourism is a significant economic driver and job creator.”
Through this investment, AtBC will provide support to over 400 Indigenous cultural tourism businesses in B.C. through products, services, marketing campaigns, and engagement with key stakeholders.
As part of Canada’s New Tourism Vision, the Government of Canada is committed to growing Indigenous tourism. In 2017:
- the Indigenous tourism sector in B.C generated approximately $705 million in gross direct output for the province;
- 36 per cent of businesses in the Indigenous tourism sector in BC were retail operations;
- 19 per cent offered outdoor adventure;
- 17 per cent provided accommodations; and
- 12 per cent were attractions.
The 2017 federal budget invested $8.6 million to support the development of a unique and authentic Indigenous tourism industry. Since 2002, the Indigenous tourism sector has grown by more than 66 percent.
Tracy Eyssens, Chief Executive Officer, Aboriginal Tourism BC, welcomed the funding. “This investment allows AtBC to develop world class experiences, meet the increased demand for authentic Aboriginal cultural experiences and enhances the overall tourism industry with concrete benefit.”
