Thursday, November 7, 2024 Indigenous Tourism Ontario (ITO) and the Tourism Innovation Lab (TIL) have launched the fifth edition of the Skode Program, spotlighting Indigenous culinary tourism across Ontario. This year’s focus is on inspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs, businesses, non-profit organizations, and community groups to develop authentic culinary tourism ideas that celebrate and promote Indigenous food in the province. Named after the Anishinaabemowin word “Skode,” meaning “fire” and pronounced “Shkoh-deh,” the program encourages participants to share their passion and ignite fresh ideas within the Indigenous culinary space.
This collaborative effort between ITO and TIL will culminate in a pitch session, awarding three winners with a $5,000 non-repayable contribution and three months of mentorship to bring their culinary visions to life. Applications are open from Thursday, November 7, 2024, to Wednesday, January 15, 2025. Applicants must be ITO members and must enroll in the ITO Feast Accreditation Program before submitting their Skode Program entry.
“With this new edition of the Skode program, we are excited to support continued tourism innovation, shed light on different career paths, and inspire Indigenous youth to follow their passions.” Kevin Eshkawkogan, President and CEO of Indigenous Tourism Ontario. “For the 5th round of the Skode Program, we are excited to collaborate once again with Indigenous Tourism Ontario and spark new Indigenous cu.
