Friday, January 24, 2025 In a significant step towards fostering economic reconciliation and advancing Indigenous tourism, Indigenous Tourism Alberta and Tourism Calgary have formalized their partnership with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This collaborative agreement is focused on promoting the growth of Indigenous tourism in the Calgary region, while simultaneously strengthening relationships between Indigenous communities, businesses, and the broader community. The demand for Indigenous experiences is surging, particularly among international visitors, convention attendees, and younger generations eager to explore and understand Indigenous cultures.
Indigenous tourism in Alberta is expected to contribute a substantial $143.3 million to the province’s GDP by 2026, underscoring the growing interest in these authentic cultural experiences. As part of the partnership, Tourism Calgary, with financial backing from the Calgary Hotel Association (CHA), will invest $1 million over the next four years in Indigenous Tourism Alberta.
These funds will be directed toward the development and promotion of Indigenous businesses and experiences, ultimately supporting the expansion of this vital sector. This agreement is not just about financial investment but also about creating pathways for Indigenous businesses to thrive. By focusing on collaboration, the MOU seeks to enhance economic opportunities, particularly by developing and supporting existing Indigenous busin.
