Tourism Growth Program Announced

On Monday, November 20, The Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Federal Minister of Tourism and Federal Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, launched the new TGP.


With $108 million in federal funding, this program will invest in Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, small businesses, and not-for-profits; helping them grow and position Canada as a tourism destination of choice.


In Newfoundland and Labrador, the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) will deliver the program’s funding directly to tourism businesses and other organizations over the next three years, supporting projects to help more domestic and international visitors discover all that Canada has to offer.


The projects will also align with the new Federal Tourism Growth Strategy—supporting sustainable tourism, outdoor experiences, Indigenous tourism, seasonal expansion, and tourism in rural and remote areas.


The overall goal of this project is to diversify regional economies and spur economic growth.


Eligible applicants include: 

  • Incorporated small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in the tourism industry.
  • Indigenous-owned businesses (including Indigenous sole proprietorships) or Indigenous tourism organizations.
  • Non-profit organizations (NPOs), including tourism associations/organizations, and post-secondary institutions.
  • Governments (municipal/provincial/territorial and related entities).


Priority may be given to projects that: 

  • Increase tourism benefits for communities by driving visitation from urban centres to rural areas.
  • Support the Indigenous tourism industry.
  • Support economic, environmental and cultural sustainability.
  • Support active outdoor experiences.
  • Extend the tourism season (projects that promote and/or develop products, services, or experiences, with an aim to increase tourism activity outside the traditional high season or to extend their services year-round).
  • Complement supports provided through provincial/territorial programs.

Other activities could be eligible. For further information and inquiries, please refer to ACOA’s website.