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Tourism partnership will strengthen Indigenous offerings

Indigenous Tourism Ontario, Destination Ontario sign agreement
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Two of the leading voices in Ontario tourism have joined forces to bring more Indigenous tourism experiences to consumers in the province.

Indigenous Tourism Ontario and Destination Ontario signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) during the 2022 Ontario Tourism Summit, hosted by the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario, in Huntsville Oct. 25-26.

According to the long-time partner organizations, the MOU outlines “specific areas for communication, marketing, and mentorship collaboration, with a goal to strengthen the Indigenous tourism industry in Ontario.”

Kevin Eshkawkogan, CEO of Indigenous Tourism Ontario, noted the rising consumer demand for Indigenous tourism experience when travelling through the province.

"As the only recognized voice for the Ontario Indigenous tourism industry, Indigenous Tourism Ontario is extremely pleased to further solidify and grow our relationship with Destination Ontario,” he said in a news release. “Our two organizations and networks are best suited to collaborate and bring this industry to the world.”

Lisa LaVecchia, president and CEO at Destination Ontario, said the two groups would work together on marketing activities that would promote the province’s various Indigenous tourism offerings.

"We recognize that Indigenous tourism experiences are sought by travellers both domestically and internationally and are an enriching part of a visitor's experience in Ontario," she said.

The partners said the MOU is effective immediately and will be in place until March 31, 2024, at which time it will be reviewed for new goals and objectives.