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Funding Sources
Indigenous Tourism British Columbia (ITBC) is a non-profit, Stakeholder-based organization that is committed to growing and promoting a sustainable, culturally rich Indigenous tourism industry.
Explore our comprehensive lists of municipal, regional, federal, and non-government financial resources dedicated to building a healthy and sustainable Indigenous tourism economy.
Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport
The Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport (MTACS) is part of the Government of British Columbia. MTACS is committed to strengthening the province’s tourism, arts, culture, and sports sectors, recognizing their importance to BC’s economy and communities.
The Ministry provides leadership, funding, and policy direction to support BC’s tourism, arts, culture, and sports growth and promotion. Their work helps create a vibrant and sustainable environment that benefits all British Columbians and enhances BC’s global reputation.
The Ministry funds the Indigenous Tourism Training Initiative (ITTI), a program designed to enhance skills and provide training opportunities for Indigenous tourism workers, employers, and communities across British Columbia.
Destination BC
Destination BC (DBC) is the official tourism marketing organization for British Columbia. As a Crown corporation, they focus on promoting B.C. as a top travel destination by highlighting the province’s unique attractions and natural beauty.
Destination BC leads marketing initiatives that draw visitors from around the world. They work closely with tourism partners to develop and promote experiences that support sustainable growth and strengthen local communities.
Destination BC funds ITBC through the Co-Op Marketing Program, which supports collaborative marketing initiatives that promote Indigenous tourism experiences in British Columbia. They also provide funding through the Visitor Centre Grant, which enhances Indigenous learning and community-based projects at BC’s visitor centres.
PacifiCan
PacifiCan is the regional economic development agency for British Columbia, which is part of the Government of Canada. They aim to drive innovation, support business growth, and enhance community development throughout the province.
PacifiCan provides funding, expertise, and programs to boost BC’s economy. They help businesses innovate and expand, improve infrastructure, and support communities in becoming more resilient and competitive.
PacifiCan supports ITBC through the Tourism Growth Program, which helps Indigenous tourism businesses and organizations improve their offerings and reach more visitors through capacity-building workshops, professional content development, producing social media campaigns and engaging websites. This funding is focused on growing Indigenous tourism in British Columbia and strengthening local economies.
Indigenous Services Canada
Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) is a federal department dedicated to improving the quality of life for Indigenous Peoples in Canada. They focus on supporting self-determination and building strong, healthy Indigenous communities.
ISC delivers essential services and programs that enhance Indigenous communities’ economic, social, and cultural well-being. Their work spans healthcare, education, and economic development, all aimed at empowering Indigenous Peoples and ensuring their long-term success.
Indigenous Services Canada supports ITBC through the Strategic Partnerships Initiative, which funds collaborative projects that advance Indigenous economic development in tourism. This initiative is complemented by the Tourism Planning Initiative, which provides resources to help Indigenous communities plan for tourism that aligns with their economic and cultural goals. The ISC also offers tourism business funding programs that assist Indigenous entrepreneurs and organizations develop and expand their tourism businesses.
Others
Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) partners with various organizations to support its initiatives. These include:
National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association
The National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) is a network of over 50 Aboriginal Financial Institutions (AFIs) across Canada. They are committed to promoting economic growth and self-reliance for Indigenous Peoples by providing access to capital and financial services.
NACCA empowers Indigenous entrepreneurs and communities by offering financing, business support, and capacity-building programs. Their network of AFIs helps Indigenous businesses start, grow, and thrive, contributing to the economic development of Indigenous communities across Canada.
NACCA supports ITBC through the Strategic Indigenous Tourism Expansion Program (SITES). This program provides funding and resources to help Indigenous tourism businesses expand and succeed. SITES focuses on building capacity, improving business operations, and increasing market readiness, enabling Indigenous entrepreneurs to achieve long-term success in the tourism industry.