Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED)
As a major economic driver, Canada's tourism industry generated over $100 billion annually before being hit hard by the pandemic. Today, the Government of Canada is ensuring that tourism once again thrives and reaches its full potential.
The Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance, on behalf of the Honourable Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Sport and Minister responsible for CED, today announced a non-repayable contribution of $809,600 for Indigenous Tourism Québec (ITQ). This CED assistance will help ITQ develop and enable a recovery in a tourism sector so affected by the pandemic.
The project involves developing and structuring Indigenous tourism products, services, and experiences through sustained mentoring for entrepreneurs, especially those in green and sustainable tourism and those making the digital shift. Local Indigenous communities have increasingly expressed a willingness to develop authentic, sustainable, innovative tourism and grow businesses by connecting them to local clienteles and targeting markets outside Quebec. This structural approach to the sector will make it possible to support nearly 100 Indigenous tourism businesses across Quebec. CED's support will focus on the overall costs of the project, including professional fees, travel costs, and management fees.
Founded over 30 years ago, Indigenous Tourism Québec, a non-profit sectoral tourism association, has a mission to provide Quebec's Indigenous entrepreneurs active in the tourism industry with an organization to represent them. In addition to defending their interests, ITQ stimulates their development through a range of products and services to improve their business practices and better position them in tourism markets.
The Government of Canada recognizes and supports businesses and organizations that are a source of pride in their communities. Quebec's economic recovery relies on a strong tourism industry made up of organizations with deep roots in the regional economy. The players in this sector are major contributors to growth, as well as key assets in rebuilding a stronger, more resilient, greener, and more just economy for all.
