WAYCOBAH FIRST NATION: With Government of Canada support announced today by Rodger Cuzner, Member of Parliament for Cape Breton-Canso, the Waycobah First Nation is looking to up the ante on Cape Breton’s tourism draw by developing experiential tourism products and services in their community.
Waycobah is receiving a $186,269 non-repayable investment, through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s (ACOA) Innovative Communities Fund, to develop a venue to house a tourism information kiosk, artisan shop and tour booking venue, as well as to develop experiential tourism experiences including trail enhancements, camping, canoeing (regatta), paddling, sport fishing, and cooking traditional Mi’kmaq food.
The announcement was made on behalf of Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for ACOA, and on behalf of Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs.
In addition to improving tourism products and services, this project will also focus on growing the Waycobah First Nation brand and increasing awareness of a community that is ready for business. Waycobah is focused on creating authentic, educational experiences for visitors that will strengthen its tourism offerings, attract new business opportunities, and create a more sustainable community.
“The Waycobah First Nation has been implementing a long-term strategic plan for the past two-and-a-half years,” said Waycobah Chief Rod Googoo. “Today’s announcement will help us continue on our path to establishing new commercial enterprises, helping existing businesses grow, and increasing the economic activity in our region.”
Other funding partners for this project include: Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC), $172,720; the Province of Nova Scotia through the Aboriginal Community Development Fund, $5,000; Waycobah First Nation, $69,438; and Ulnooweg $19,500.
“Ulnooweg is pleased to be a part of the growing participation of Aboriginal businesses in this sector,” said Ulnooweg general manager Chris Googoo. “Providing a bridge between culture and Business in strengthening and empowering Aboriginal communities.”
The First Nation community will utilize the Aboriginal Tourism Association of Canada’s (ATAC) – Aboriginal Cultural Experiences National Guidelines to ensure that the products and services meet or exceed the expectations of visitors.
“This project is just one example of how ACOA and INAC are working together to boost economic activity through infrastructure investments and community-based partnerships, while supporting the Government of Canada’s priorities to promote a vibrant economy and ensure a better future for Indigenous Peoples,” Cuzner said.
Tourism is an increasingly important revenue generator for Indigenous Peoples throughout the world. Next week ATAC will host the 2016 International Aboriginal Tourism Conference from December 12 to 14 in Membertou. The conference will provide learning and networking opportunities to international, national and Atlantic Canada First Nation communities who are looking to advance their tourism initiatives.