Carey Perkins, a Kanienʼkehá:ka from Akwesasne, who owns Niio Perkins Designs specializing in raised beadwork jewelry, applied for a $25,000 grant in January 2025 to cover studio space, insurance, and overhead expenses. However, more than a year later, she is yet to receive the approved funding. Perkins is one of many small business owners awaiting funding from the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC).
Perkins expressed her frustration, stating that the delay has caused a domino effect on her business operations, leading to financial difficulties and ultimately forcing her to vacate her studio space in August 2025. ITAC aims to support and promote authentic Indigenous tourism in Canada through various initiatives, as outlined in its 2023-24 annual report.
In early 2025, ITAC, through the Indigenous Tourism Fund’s Micro and Small Business Stream (MSBS), distributed approximately $3.3 million in federal funding to 136 Indigenous tourism businesses. However, concerns have been raised regarding the delayed disbursement of funds to some recipients, prompting Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada to investigate the matter.
ITAC President and CEO Keith Henry acknowledged that there are outstanding payments from the MSBS program but assured that efforts are being made to settle all dues as soon as possible. Despite challenges in cash flow, ITAC remains committed to supporting Indigenous tourism initiatives for sustainable growth.
Another business owner, Aïcha Smith-Belghaba, a Kanienʼkehá:ka and Algerian from Six Nations of the Grand River, also faced delays in receiving a $25,000 MSBS grant approved in January 2025 for her business, Esha’s Eats. The delay has significantly impacted her business expansion plans and financial stability.
Furthermore, issues with late payments arose after an Indigenous tourism conference hosted by ITAC in Edmonton, causing distress among service providers like Nathan Rainy Chief, executive director of 49 Dzine. Despite challenges, ITAC continues to advocate for Indigenous tourism and is expecting substantial funding from a U.K.-based charity to support its operations.
The delay in fund disbursement has affected several Indigenous businesses, highlighting the need for streamlined processes and improved financial support within the Indigenous tourism sector.