Three Indigenous tourism organizations have announced their withdrawal of support from the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) due to concerns regarding financial mismanagement and lack of transparency in fund allocation over multiple years. Indigenous Tourism Ontario (ITO), Indigenous Tourism B.C. (ITBC), and Nova Scotia Indigenous Tourism Enterprise Network (NSITEN) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to establish a new national tourism organization and plan to invite other organizations to join in the upcoming months, as per letters obtained by CBC Indigenous.
ITBC Chair Brenda Baptiste, in a letter dated May 12 to ITAC, stated that the decision to withdraw support was based on escalating public concerns and sustained unresolved issues surrounding ITAC’s conduct, direction, and governance. She emphasized the need to refocus on a provincial-led governance model to safeguard the credibility and growth of the provincial sector until a national governance structure is established.
Keith Henry, president and CEO of ITAC, acknowledged ongoing challenges between ITAC and the aforementioned organizations, citing historical issues. Notably, there have been reports of delays in federal funding distribution to small business owners promised funds through ITAC, with some Indigenous-owned businesses experiencing late payments following an Indigenous tourism conference held by ITAC in Edmonton.
In response to the withdrawal of support, Henry expressed willingness to address issues and restore federal investment for ITAC, highlighting the organization’s efforts to resolve matters while emphasizing the importance of unity within the industry. Despite the internal disputes, ITAC remains hopeful for continued support from the Canadian government to bolster Indigenous tourism infrastructure and opportunities nationwide.
Meanwhile, concerns persist among grant recipients awaiting funds, such as Aïcha Smith-Belghaba, who has faced delays in receiving a Micro and Small Business Stream grant since January 2025. Smith-Belghaba, the owner of Esha’s Eats, has been vocal about the challenges faced by small Indigenous businesses, urging accountability and timely action to resolve funding discrepancies.
The situation underscores the need for a comprehensive review, currently underway by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, to address issues related to grant disbursement and ensure equitable support for Indigenous tourism operators across the country. As stakeholders navigate these challenges, the call for transparency, accountability, and strategic investment in Indigenous tourism remains paramount for fostering sustainable growth and development within the sector.