The Leading the Way in Business Development Award
Recognizes a community-based business thriving in tourism business development at an inspiring rate and demonstrates the implementation of proper protocol, from community consultation to community buy-in.
(Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) – The finalists for the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada’s (ITAC) annual Indigenous Tourism Awards were announced today.
Both the national and provincial awards will be presented during the 10th annual International Indigenous Tourism Conference (IITC) on Thursday, March 9, 2023, hosted in Treaty 1 Territory and the Homeland of the Métis (Winnipeg, MB). A highlight of IITC is the annual awards gala, where exceptional Indigenous leaders and Indigenous tourism experiences are recognized and celebrated.
ITAC and Indigenous Tourism Manitoba (ITM) will be recognizing Indigenous-owned tourism associations, businesses, entrepreneurs, and people from across Canada who have demonstrated exceptional work in leadership, partnership, development and marketing, and business ethic.
“It’s invigorating to see so many nominations representing a very impressive and diverse group of Indigenous operators from coast to coast to coast,” says Keith Henry, CEO and President of ITAC. “Along with ITM, we will be celebrating the outstanding achievements of so many Indigenous entrepreneurs on March 9th.”
This year, more than 60 nominations were received, showcasing first-rate Indigenous tourism experiences across the country. Each year, nominees must be majority Indigenous owned/controlled and provide tourism experiences or tourism related services.