Federal Budget 2025: $7M in Tangible Investments for Indigenous Tourism, Recognition for ITAC’s National Leadership

Press Release

November 5, 2025

Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), (Vancouver, BC) – Yesterday, the federal government introduced Canada Strong Budget 2025, with some tangible renewed investments, totalling $7M for Indigenous tourism, supporting the global interest and potential of the industry.

The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) is pleased to see recognition of ITAC as the nationally recognized body for Indigenous tourism. This acknowledgment reinforces ITAC’s long-standing leadership and the trust placed in the organization to represent and advance Indigenous tourism across the country.

Budget 2025 also renews investment to the Indigenous Tourism Fund, a significant commitment that will continue to provide targeted resources to strengthen Indigenous small-and medium-sized tourism businesses. These resources will be instrumental in helping ITAC achieve its vision of becoming the global leader in Indigenous tourism by 2030.

“This was a difficult budget for many sectors, including Indigenous tourism, but we’re encouraged to see recognition for the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada as the nationally recognized body for Indigenous tourism,” said Keith Henry, President and CEO of ITAC. “We also welcome the $1 million investment for ITAC and the $6 million commitment to the Indigenous Tourism Fund. These resources are vital to our shared vision of making Canada the global leader in Indigenous tourism by 2030 and will be leveraged to attract additional investments that strengthen the sector. We look forward to working with the Government of Canada to advance these resources to ITAC and through the Indigenous Tourism Fund and ensure continued growth for Indigenous-led tourism across the country.”

BECOMING THE GLOBAL LEADER IN INDIGENOUS TOURISM BY 2030

ITAC’s strategic plan marks the 10th year of the association advancing Indigenous tourism in Canada, outlining a path toward rebuilding and growth. By 2030, ITAC aims for the Indigenous tourism sector to comprise 2,700 businesses, generate 60,000 jobs, and contribute $6 billion annually to the GDP. These results strengthen Indigenous economies and position Canada as a world leader in Indigenous-led tourism. As of 2023, the sector has seen 2,757 Indigenous-owned and operated tourism businesses, 34,711 jobs in Indigenous tourism, and $1.3 billion in GDP contributions.

Indigenous tourism in Canada contributed $1.7 billion to the GDP in 2018; however, by 2023, that number had dropped 24 percent to $1.3 billion.

To achieve this ambitious vision, continued and long-term investments are needed. Budget 2025’s recognition of ITAC and the Indigenous Tourism Fund represents an important step toward ensuring that resources are leveraged to attract additional private and public investments—unlocking the sector’s full potential.

UNLOCKING ECONOMIC POTENTIAL

Budget 2025 also announces the federal government’s intention to unlock more of the economic potential of Canada’s airports and explore new ways to attract private sector investment. ITAC welcomes opportunities to collaborate with the federal government and partners to ensure Indigenous tourism benefits from these infrastructure and investment strategies.

ITAC is also pleased to see the continuance of the Canada Strong Pass and looks forward to working with the federal government to ensure Indigenous cultural centres are included in the program, providing more opportunities for Canadians and visitors to experience authentic Indigenous tourism and culture.

Despite ongoing challenges—including new government priorities, U.S. tariffs, and fragmentation within the national tourism landscape—ITAC remains fully committed to delivering results for its members and partners. The association will continue to advance its 2025-26 Operational Plan to ensure Indigenous tourism remains a key pillar of Canada’s tourism and economic future.

ITAC thanks the Minister of Indigenous Services Canada, The Honourable Mandy Gull-Masty, and the Secretary of State for Small Business and Tourism, The Honourable Rechie Valdez, for their continued support, and we look forward to working with the Government of Canada to advance these resources to ensure continued growth for Indigenous-led tourism across the country.

tartanbond, Communications Support

Email: ITAC@tartanbond.com

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