Carey Perkins, a Kanienʼkehá:ka from Akwesasne, secured a $25,000 grant in January 2025 for her business, Niio Perkins Designs. Despite the approval, she is yet to receive the funds, leading to financial strain and the closure of her studio space. Perkins is just one of many small business owners awaiting funding from the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC).
The ITAC, as per its 2023-24 annual report, focuses on advancing authentic Indigenous tourism in Canada through various initiatives. In early 2025, ITAC administered around $3.3 million in federal funding to 136 Indigenous tourism businesses through the Indigenous Tourism Fund’s Micro and Small Business Stream (MSBS).
In response to concerns about delayed payments, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada pledged to investigate the issue and ensure rightful recipients are reimbursed. ITAC President Keith Henry acknowledged the outstanding payments from the MSBS program and assured that efforts are underway to settle all dues promptly.
Many business owners, like Aïcha Smith-Belghaba, have felt the impact of delayed funding on their operations. Smith-Belghaba, of Kanienʼkehá:ka and Algerian descent, had plans to expand her catering business, Esha’s Eats, with the grant she was awarded in January 2025. However, the funds never materialized, forcing her to reallocate resources and scale back her business significantly.
Following an Indigenous tourism conference in Edmonton, concerns were raised about late payments to service providers, including Nathan Rainy Chief’s business, 49 Dzine. Despite submitting invoices and receiving confirmation of sold-out tours, payments were delayed, affecting not just businesses but also elders and knowledge keepers within the Indigenous community.
ITAC’s financial challenges have been exacerbated by reduced federal funding over the years, leading to delayed payments and operational cutbacks. Despite expectations of funding from the Passion Project Foundation, ITAC is currently facing financial constraints, resulting in staff layoffs and reduced operations until the anticipated funds are received.
The organization’s commitment to promoting Indigenous tourism in Canada remains steadfast, albeit amidst financial uncertainties and delayed payments to businesses and stakeholders.