Indigenous tourism in Alberta getting another major boost in funding

Metis Crossing Building (Photo submitted)

The Alberta government is investing $6 million to support Indigenous-led tourism through Travel Alberta’s renewed agreement with Indigenous Tourism Alberta.

The funding committed over 3 years builds upon the province’s previous investments in Indigenous-led tourism, creating meaningful employment and ownership opportunities for Indigenous Peoples while helping reach the ambitious goal of growing Alberta’s annual visitor spending to $25 billion by 2035.

“This continued support gives Indigenous tourism operators the opportunity to provide authentic experiences for visitors to learn about the histories, arts, cultures and perspectives of Indigenous Peoples”, said Andrew Boitchenko, Alberta Minister of Tourism and Sport.

“Not only does this strengthen Alberta’s visitor economy, but it creates jobs and economic opportunities for Indigenous communities across the province while fostering understanding and supporting reconciliation.”

Since 2021, Alberta’s government invested a historic $12 million to support the growth of Indigenous-owned tourism businesses and organizations across the province.

The investment will support Indigenous Tourism Alberta’s mentorship and development programs for Indigenous tourism operators, as well as enable joint promotional activities that drive international demand for Indigenous tourism operators across the province.

“We’re seeing increasing demand for Indigenous tourism from all over the world at our business, and a strong partnership between Indigenous Tourism Alberta and Travel Alberta is so important to keep that progressing. Tourism is competitive, and Indigenous entrepreneurs represent a huge opportunity as a market differentiator for the entire industry in Alberta, so I’m thrilled to see this collaboration continue,” said Brenda Holder, chair and founding member of Indigenous Tourism Alberta, owner of Mahikan Trails.

Indigenous tourism contributed $126 million in GDP to Alberta’s economy last year, and is projected to contribute another $138.6 million in 2025.