Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) and the British Columbia Assembly of First Nations (BCAFN) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to expand B.C.’s rich collection of Indigenous tourism products and experiences.
By signing the MOU, both parties agree to collaborate with each other—as well as with tourism, business, educational and government organizations—to support growth of Indigenous tourism province-wide. “We are thrilled to collaborate with ITBC with the mutual goal of supporting the expansion of B.C.’s Indigenous tourism industry,” said regional chief Terry Teegee. “Our next steps are to connect with Indigenous business owners, operators and community members, and identify strategies to inspire growth in this important economic sector.”
Both organizations pledge to ensure business owners and operators are equipped with the necessary skills and resources to meet increased demand for authentic cultural experiences. They will also develop guiding principles and initiatives that contribute to the economic prosperity of Indigenous people while supporting the provincial economy.
“Tourism is one of the fastest growing industries in B.C. and a key economic driver,” said Brenda Baptiste, board chair, Indigenous Tourism BC. “Similar expansion of Indigenous tourism relies on stakeholder collaborations, such as our new partnership with BCAFN. We look forward to working closely with BCAFN to promote economic development in Indigenous communities across the province.”
