Tourism in Alberta is booming, with more visitors coming to the province than ever before. Indigenous tourism is key to this growth, with one in three international travellers seeking authentic Indigenous experiences. Visitors are seeking deeper connections with the destinations they visit, and Indigenous entrepreneurs across Alberta are taking the lead to offer unique opportunities to discover the rich histories, diverse traditions and natural wonders of Alberta through an Indigenous lens.
To support increased demand for authentic, Indigenous-led tourism experiences, Alberta’s government has made the largest commitment to Indigenous tourism in the province’s history, directing $8.85 million to Indigenous Tourism Alberta. Funding is over six years, from 2021 to 2026, with $6.85 million having been allocated so far.
"Indigenous cultures and history are central to Alberta’s story, and these investments in Indigenous tourism will help communities continue sharing their vibrant cultures with the world through authentic Indigenous experiences. As Indigenous tourism expands across the province, it will continue to create meaningful employment and ownership opportunities for Indigenous Peoples and generate revenue streams for Indigenous communities provincewide."
“Indigenous tourism brings economic and cultural reconciliation together by providing new revenue streams for communities and opportunities to showcase the rich cultural practices and contributions of Indigenous Peoples on a world stage. By supporting the Indigenous tourism sector, we are supporting the growth and long-term development of Indigenous communities and businesses.”
Indigenous tourism is a key pillar of Alberta’s Tourism Strategy and is expected to contribute $126 million to the province's economy in 2024 alone. This historic investment builds upon previous investments in Indigenous tourism, strengthening the sector and helping the rich histories and cultures of Alberta’s Indigenous Peoples shine on the world stage. By continuing to invest in Indigenous tourism and supporting the development of authentic Indigenous experiences, Alberta’s government is positioning the province as a premier destination for travellers from near and far.
“This is the largest provincial investment in Indigenous tourism in the country, and we couldn’t be more thrilled. Indigenous tourism brings all kinds of benefits to Indigenous communities and is a differentiator for Alberta in an ultra-competitive global tourism industry. This is an investment in Indigenous entrepreneurs, and in a stronger and more diverse tourism industry.”
Alberta’s government is also investing directly in Indigenous tourism operators through Travel Alberta’s Tourism Investment Program. Over the past three years, the Tourism Investment Program has invested $3.5 million into the growth and development of 50 Indigenous tourism experiences in the province.
“Our investments in Indigenous tourism underscore our commitment to reconciliation, creating meaningful opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs to share their cultures with the world. Indigenous tourism has the power to create resilient, prosperous communities and provides a touchstone for international visitors to Alberta.”
Quick facts
- Over the past three years, Alberta’s government has invested $3.5 million in Indigenous tourism operators through Travel Alberta’s Tourism Investment Program.
- Since 2021, Alberta’s government has invested $12 million in Indigenous tourism to bolster the growth of Indigenous-owned tourism businesses and organizations across the province.
Related information
- Indigenous Tourism Alberta
- Tourism Investment Program
- Travel Alberta
- Higher Ground: A Tourism Sector Strategy
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