Promoting 2SLGBTQI+ Market Readiness in Atlantic Canada
Press Release
From: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
August 20, 2024
Atlantic Canada has long been a favourite destination for travellers seeking stunning vistas, rich cultural experiences, and warm hospitality. Residents, business owners, and tourism operators benefit from creating a place where people feel respected and welcome. The Government of Canada is committed to sustainable growth for the nation’s tourism industry from coast to coast to coast, ensuring safe, diverse, and inclusive travel experience for all visitors.
Creating a more welcoming destination for all
Today, the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA, announced an investment of $489,409 through the Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program to support Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC) in Atlantic Canada.
Building off the success of the initial phase, this investment will allow the CGLCC to continue delivering its 2SLGBTQI+ Tourism Market Readiness Program. The initiative will provide a series of supports, including 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion training, market information, and Rainbow Registered accreditation, so that operators across Atlantic Canada can better serve a growing travel market.
Today’s announcement further demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to diversifying regional economies by investing in tourism projects and experiences that will encourage visitation to and within Canada.
Quotes
“Atlantic Canadians are proud to showcase our special part of the world, with its breathtaking scenery and welcoming communities. Your federal government, through ACOA, is proud to support the 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce’s work in creating a more vibrant and inclusive tourism industry.”
– The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA
“We are thrilled to support the 2SLGBTQI+ Tourism Market Readiness Program in Atlantic Canada. This investment underscores our commitment to fostering a tourism industry that is not only economically vibrant but also inclusive and welcoming to all. By equipping tourism operators with the necessary tools and training, we are ensuring that every visitor feels respected and valued, which in turn strengthens our communities and enriches the travel experience for everyone.“
– Darrell Schuurman, CEO of Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce
Quick facts
- Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC) is a national non-profit organization that brings together 2SLGBTQI+-owned and operated businesses and advocates on their behalf to build a more diverse and inclusive business community. This member-based organization offers programs such as diversity and inclusion training, the Rainbow Registered Program, advocacy initiatives, the mentorship Program OUT For Business for entrepreneurs, and 2SLGBTQI+ tourism market readiness.
- Canada is home to over 100,000 2SLGBTQI+-owned businesses. These businesses generate over $22 billion in economic activity and employ over 435,000 Canadians.
- Over 7,500 businesses are part of the tourism sector in Atlantic Canada, working in food and beverage, accommodations, recreation, transportation, and travel services. Together, these companies employ over 111,000 full and part-time workers.
- Tourism is a major employer for Atlantic Canadians living outside major cities, representing approximately 9.5% of all local jobs in rural communities.
- Industries that rely on tourism contributed 3.5% of the region’s GDP in 2022.
- The Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program helps businesses speed up their growth so they can be more productive, compete on the world stage and reach new markets.
Associated links
Contacts
Connor Burton
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Connor.Burton@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
David Fleming
Communications Manager
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
david.fleming@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
Julie-Leonora Kesch
Communications and Marketing Manager
Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce
Julie-leonora.kesch@cglcc.ca
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