Tourism Growth Program — Indigenous Projects for Quebec
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.
Overview
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.
At a glance
Funding available
- Develop a new product or service
- Launch or market a product/service
- Maximum amount : 250,000 $
- Up to 50% of project cost
Eligible candidates
- All industries
- Quebec
- Non-profit
- Sole proprietorship
- Public or Parapublic institution
- Non-financial cooperative
- Social economy enterprise
- For-profit business
- All revenue ranges
- All organization sizes
- Indigenous Peoples
- Culture and Arts
- Economic, Social and Community Development
- Diversity and Inclusion
- Indigenous peoples
- Rural / Remote communities
- Business owners / entrepreneurs
- All structures
- Local
- Municipal
- Regional
Next Steps
Activities funded
This grant supports Indigenous tourism projects focused on enhancing the tourism landscape in Quebec. Eligible activities are designed to increase tourism appeal, support sustainable development, and showcase Indigenous culture.
- Increasing tourism benefits in communities by attracting more visitors to rural regions.
- Involving Indigenous communities to showcase culture, heritage, and traditions as key attractions.
- Promoting sustainable tourism development that meets economic, social, and environmental needs.
- Developing or enhancing active tourism experiences, such as outdoor and nature-based activities.
- Extending the tourism season or enabling year-round services through new products or experiences.
- Acquiring new equipment and improving Indigenous tourism reception facilities.
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
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.
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.
Eligible geographic areas
This grant is specifically available to Indigenous companies and organizations located within the province of Quebec, Canada. The focus is on supporting indigenous tourism projects that benefit both urban and rural communities across Quebec.
- Indigenous communities within Quebec, including urban centers and rural areas.
- Municipalities in Nunavik, Quebec.
Selection 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.
How to apply
- 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.
Additional information
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.