Indigenous Tourism Conference (ITC)

April 28 to 30, 2025

Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ Territory
Pacific Rim National Park
Ucluelet Community Centre, Ucluelet, BC

in collaboration with

British Columbia is a leader in Indigenous tourism, with more than 400 Indigenous-owned tourism businesses contributing $705 million in direct GDP and supporting over 7,400 full-time jobs as of 2016. These businesses are vital in preserving Indigenous culture while generating sustainable economic opportunities. Nationally, the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) projects the sector’s GDP contribution to reach $6 billion annually by 2030, supporting 60,000 jobs.

In collaboration with Indigenous Tourism BC, ITC is a pivotal, Indigenous-led initiative dedicated to further advancing:

• business growth;

• cultural preservation; and

• economic self-determination through tourism.

ITC aims to provide a platform for:

• ITBC Stakeholders;

• Indigenous entrepreneurs;

• community leaders; and

• industry partners.

Delegates will:

• explore opportunities for new business;

• seek integrations connecting existing operations, products, and services;

• share insights spanning from recruitment and retention to marketing strategies;

• offer peer mentorship; and

• foster collaborative partnerships that expand capacity and reach.

Tourism as a Catalyst for Small Business Growth

Tourism offers Indigenous entrepreneurs a unique opportunity to create authentic cultural experiences that attract visitors and drive local economic growth. By leveraging their deep connections to the land, water, and traditions, Indigenous businesses can achieve economic self-sufficiency while maintaining cultural integrity.

Why attend?

ITC is a critical platform to:

• Empower Indigenous Leadership: Ensure Indigenous voices are central to shaping the future of tourism.

• Promote Economic Self-Sufficiency: Support sustainable business development and job creation.

• Foster Partnerships and Collaboration: Facilitate joint ventures and expand market access.

• Enhance Cultural Preservation: Celebrate and safeguard Indigenous traditions through tourism.

Highlights of the Indigenous Tourism Conference

• Keynote Presentations: Hear from Indigenous leaders and innovators.

• Workshops and Panels: Dive into topics such as sustainable tourism, small business growth, and marketing strategies.

• Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and potential partners.

• Cultural Showcases: Experience Indigenous storytelling, performances, and art.

In Short!

The Indigenous Tourism Conference is more than an event.

It’s a movement to position Indigenous communities as leaders in the tourism sector. By convening in Ucluelet, we can collectively drive economic growth, preserve cultural heritage, and create a sustainable future for Indigenous tourism in BC and beyond. Join us in building this path forward—together.