Tourism Growth Program — Indigenous Projects for Quebec
QC, Canada
Funding support for Indigenous tourism growth in Québec
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|maxCount
- grant_single|projectCostPercent
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|closingDateDecember 20, 2024
- grant_single|grantStatusClosed
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Arts, entertainment and recreation
- Accommodation and food services
grant_single|grantors
- Indigenous Tourism Québec (ITQ)
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|open
grant_single_labels|preview
The Tourism Growth Program – Indigenous Projects for Quebec offers a maximum non-repayable contribution of up to $250,000 to enhance Indigenous tourism offerings, focusing on activities that increase tourism benefits in communities, support Indigenous culture, and promote sustainable tourism development. Eligible projects aim to add value to existing tourism activities, such as developing outdoor experiences and extending tourist seasons, with a goal of strengthening the Indigenous tourism industry in Quebec.
grant_single_labels|projects
The Indigenous TGP in Québec offers funding for projects that enhance tourism experiences and foster economic growth in Indigenous communities. Eligible projects should focus on increasing the appeal and capacity of local attractions to draw tourists from outside Québec.
- Enhancing tourism attractions to draw more visitors to various regions, including rural areas.
- Supporting Indigenous tourism by involving Indigenous communities and showcasing culture, heritage, craftsmanship, and traditions.
- Promoting sustainable tourism development considering economic, social, and environmental impacts.
- Developing or enhancing active tourism experiences like outdoor and nature-based activities.
- Extending the tourism season by creating products, services, or experiences for off-peak seasons or enabling year-round activities.
- Acquiring new equipment and improving Indigenous tourism reception facilities.
- Projects with significant impact on regional tourism development.
- Projects demonstrating immediate implementation readiness and financial involvement from other stakeholders.
- Initiatives located in urban centers aiming to attract visitors to underdeveloped or underserved regions.
grant_single_labels|admissibility
Eligibility for this grant is determined by specific requirements related to the Indigenous identity of the applicant and their operation in the tourism industry.
- Applicants must be Indigenous, including individuals registered under the Indian Act or members of the Inuit Nation, with proof required.
- Eligible applicants include Indigenous SMEs, NPOs, and social economy enterprises active in the tourism industry.
- Applicants must be Indigenous-owned businesses, which can include sole proprietorships, band councils, municipalities in Nunavik, or Indigenous tourism organizations that are majority-owned, managed, or operated by Indigenous individuals.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
Eligible applicants for this grant must be Indigenous and include Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), Non-Profit Organizations (NPOs), and social economy enterprises active in the tourism industry. Specifically, applicants should be Indigenous-owned businesses, which can include sole proprietorships, band councils, and municipalities in Nunavik, or Indigenous tourism organizations that are majority-owned, managed, or operated by Indigenous individuals. Proof of Indigenous status must be provided.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
There are no specific restrictions or clear statements in the grant context provided about who or which industries cannot apply for this grant. The focus is on inclusion of Indigenous applicants meeting the stated eligibility requirements.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
The grant covers specific expenses directly associated with the execution and success of Indigenous tourism projects.
- Capital expenditures such as the purchase of equipment and improvement of facilities.
- Other eligible costs in line with project objectives, including marketing and operational costs.
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
The grant does not specify eligible geographical areas beyond mentioning Indigenous ownership and control. It focuses on Indigenous communities involved in tourism.
grant_single_labels|criteria
The evaluation and selection of projects for the Indigenous Tourism Growth Program grant in Quebec will follow specific criteria set to ensure projects meet desired objectives.
- Impact on regional tourism development, particularly in underserved areas.
- Readiness for immediate implementation.
- Presence of financial involvement from stakeholders beyond the applicant.
- Contribution to tourism benefits in Indigenous communities through cultural, heritage, and tradition showcasing.
- Potential to sustainably extend the tourism season beyond peak times.
- Capacity to significantly enhance local attractions to increase appeal to visitors from outside Quebec.
- Inclusion of new equipment acquisition and improvement of reception facilities for Indigenous tourism.
grant_single_labels|register
- Step 1: Verify Eligibility
- Confirm that your business or organization is eligible to apply, ensuring it meets the criteria as an Indigenous-owned or majority Indigenous-managed entity operating in the tourism sector in Quebec.
- Step 2: Gather Required Documentation
- Prepare proof of Indigenous status, as required under the eligibility criteria.
- Compile necessary documentation such as business registration documents, project plan, and financial statements.
- Step 3: Develop Project Proposal
- Outline your project’s objectives and how they align with program goals, focusing on enhancing tourism experiences and promoting Indigenous culture.
- Detail expected outcomes, including job creation and economic impact.
- Prepare a budget and timeline for project implementation.
- Step 4: Complete Online Application Form
- Access the online form provided by Indigenous Tourism Quebec.
- Fill out all required fields thoroughly and accurately.
- Attach supporting documents to the application.
- Step 5: Submit Application
- Submit the completed application form and all accompanying documents by the deadline of December 20, 2024.
- Send an email to tourismeautochtone@itq.com if you need assistance or have attached documents to discuss.
- Step 6: Await Feedback
- ITQ will review applications between January 6 and February 21, 2025.
- Project results will be announced by February 21, 2025.
- Step 7: Finalize Agreement
- If selected, finalize the funding agreement by March 31, 2025.
- Step 8: Project Implementation
- Implement and complete the project by the deadline of March 31, 2026.
- Work collaboratively with the ITQ team throughout the project execution.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
Here are additional relevant details for this grant:
- This program is specifically managed by Indigenous Tourism Quebec (ITQ).
- The funding is categorized as a non-repayable contribution.
- Only one project per beneficiary is allowed.
- The program's process involves submission, evaluation, and confirmation within specific timelines.
- Projects ready for immediate implementation receive additional prioritization.
- Applicants must collaborate with the ITQ team throughout project implementation.
- Beneficiaries must commit to project-based management for the duration of their project.
Apply to this program
Empowering Indigenous Tourism in Quebec
The Tourism Growth Program (TGP) Indigenous Projects for Quebec, spearheaded by Indigenous Tourism Quebec (ITQ), offers significant financial support to Indigenous tourism entrepreneurs and organizations in Quebec, enhancing tourism initiatives and fostering economic growth. This program aims to expand Quebec's tourism offerings and strengthen the Indigenous tourism sector by providing non-repayable contributions to eligible projects, focusing on cultural relevance and community involvement.
Exploring the Details of the Indigenous Tourism Growth Program
The Tourism Growth Program represents a monumental effort to bolster Indigenous tourism in Quebec, providing a robust framework that aligns with Canada's broader economic development goals. With an additional $1 million investment from Indigenous Tourism Quebec and ongoing support from Canada Economic Development (CED) for the regions of Quebec, this initiative underscores the federal government's commitment to Indigenous communities and tourism development. Building on a prior allocation of $3.2 million to Indigenous tourism entrepreneurs, this program provides invaluable support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), non-profit organizations (NPOs), and communities engaged in tourism in Quebec.
The key objectives of the Indigenous TGP in Quebec are multifaceted, aimed at enhancing tourism experiences and entrepreneurial growth, while promoting Indigenous culture, heritage, and sustainable tourism practices. The program serves as an economic engine by diversifying regional offerings and increasing the appeal of Quebec as a tourism destination, year-round. The additional funding extends through March 2026, ensuring comprehensive, long-term support for eligible projects.
To qualify for this program, applicants must be Indigenous entities such as SMEs, NPOs, or social economy enterprises involved in tourism, predominantly owned or managed by Indigenous peoples. Eligible projects should significantly enhance existing tourism activities and display clear benefits for community growth and heritage promotion. The program prioritizes initiatives that increase visitor influx, particularly outside Quebec, while directly involving Indigenous communities in showcasing their unique cultural and historical narratives.
The ITQ has designed the TGP to favor projects that embody sustainability, meet contemporary societal and environmental impacts, and nurture the symbiotic relationship between tourism entities and the communities they operate within. This emphasis on sustainable tourism development ensures that the benefits of the program reach deeper into Indigenous regions, positively impacting local economies and the environment.
Financial assistance through the program is substantial, providing non-repayable contributions tailored to the organizational status and specific needs of the project. Individual businesses and commercial entities can receive up to $100,000 with support rates of up to 75% for various costs, whereas non-commercial Indigenous organizations may receive up to $250,000 with a 90% support rate. This financial structure is poised to transform Indigenous tourism operations, making them more competitive and attractive to a global audience.
Contributors to the program must engage in project-based management and collaborate closely with the ITQ team, ensuring their projects align with strategic objectives and maximize resource utilization. With a rigorous application review process, ITQ ensures a diverse, geographically balanced representation of projects, focusing on those with the highest potential impact on regional tourism.
The comprehensive design of the Indigenous TGP supports both immediate project needs and the long-term growth of Indigenous tourism in Quebec, creating an environment where Indigenous entrepreneurs can thrive. The program's support extends beyond funding; it encourages a broader engagement with stakeholders, fostering a collective approach to tourism development. This integrated effort promises far-reaching developmental benefits, enhancing the region's global appeal and honoring the rich cultural tapestry of Quebec's Indigenous peoples.
