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Working with Tourism Partners
Partnerships are essential for creating long-term growth and ensuring that Indigenous tourism is deeply integrated into the broader tourism industry. These collaborations allow for mutual respect and shared goals while ensuring that Indigenous cultures, values, and traditions are honoured and represented. ITBC collaborates on and signs Memorandums of Understandings (MOUs, or partnership agreements) with organizations like Destination B.C. and regional and city destination marketing organizations (RDMOs & CDMOs) to foster mutual respect and commitment to building Indigenous regional economies. These agreements establish how resources will be shared and coordinated, allowing both parties to work together toward the shared goal of uplifting Indigenous tourism.
By working closely with tourism partners, ITBC ensures that Indigenous voices are included in key discussions that shape the future of tourism in British Columbia. These partnerships not only help secure resources but also promote sustainable tourism that benefits Indigenous communities, the tourism industry, and travellers alike.
Shaping the Future of Tourism in B.C
ITBC and Destination B.C. have developed guiding principles to shape their ongoing partnership. These principles are rooted in a shared commitment to respecting Indigenous peoples, cultures, and lands, and they align with the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA). Together, these organizations are working to build a sustainable, authentic Indigenous cultural tourism industry. The impact of this collaboration is reflected in a more inclusive tourism sector that prioritizes Indigenous participation and benefits Indigenous communities.
The Invest in Iconics Strategy
In partnership with Destination B.C., ITBC co-developed the Invest in Iconics Strategy, which aims to increase tourism revenue in British Columbia by showcasing the province’s iconic destinations. Indigenous tourism is deeply embedded in this strategy, ensuring Indigenous cultures and histories are front and center in destination development. This initiative helps differentiate B.C. on the world stage and honours Indigenous traditions, customs, and values. The strategy promotes year-round tourism and balances market readiness with community capacity, contributing to long-term, sustainable growth in Indigenous tourism.
The Indigenous Tourism Accord with the Province of B.C.
The Indigenous Tourism Accord, signed between ITBC and the Province of B.C., is a landmark agreement to promote Indigenous tourism and increase economic opportunities for Indigenous people. The Accord outlines objectives such as increasing Indigenous participation in tourism, revitalizing Indigenous cultures, and fostering collaboration between Indigenous and non-Indigenous tourism operators. This partnership directly impacts improving economic conditions and cultural preservation across B.C.’s Indigenous communities.