Indigenous entrepreneurs will receive more support in developing top-notch tourism experiences thanks to an investment by the federal government in Indigenous Tourism Alberta. 

As part of a May funding announcement made by Randy Boissonnault, the Federal Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance, Indigenous Tourism Alberta is receiving $1.8 million to help Indigenous tourism operators develop and promote authentic Indigenous cultural experiences in the province.

“Indigenous tourism offers amazing opportunities for travelers to connect with Indigenous Peoples at a time when reconciliation is at the top of Canadians’ minds,” said Shae Bird, CEO of Indigenous Tourism Alberta. “This investment will help Indigenous Tourism Alberta continue to support the rapid growth of the sector into a major component of Alberta’s visitor economy, and support hundreds of Indigenous entrepreneurs reach their business and social goals.”

The announcement also included $10 million for Edmonton’s K-Days festival, which will help organizers expand programming that is inclusive of Indigenous Peoples, and $7.5 million to support 29 tourism projects through the Tourism Relief Fund and the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund, delivered in Alberta by PrairiesCan.

The investment means Indigenous Tourism Alberta will continue to expand its programs to support Indigenous entrepreneurs. The organization has doubled its membership in the last 18 months, and currently supports 206 Indigenous-owned businesses located throughout Alberta.