Featured in Winnipeg Free Press
The Winnipeg Free Press reports that Manitoba’s Indigenous tourism sector has experienced explosive growth, with the number of Indigenous-owned tourism businesses more than doubling between 2019 and 2023. As of 2023, the province is home to approximately 170 Indigenous tourism businesses contributing $91 million annually and supporting more than 1,600 jobs. A new economic report from Signal49 Research identified Indigenous tourism as a central pillar of Manitoba’s long-term economic strategy, driven by strong domestic demand, expanded air routes, and global traveler appetite for authentic cultural experiences.
Our Involvement
Indigenous Tourism Manitoba (ITM) and CEO Holly Spence were prominently highlighted, illustrating key milestones propelling the industry forward. In late 2025, ITM signed a historic 5-year, $127-million Memorandum of Understanding with Travel Manitoba and the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) aimed at launching 40 new tourism businesses and 713 jobs. The article also spotlighted ITM’s Explore Indigenous retail and experience space at The Forks supporting emerging entrepreneurs, and ITM’s expansion at the Rendez-vous Canada international trade conference—bringing nine Manitoba businesses to connect with global travel buyers this year. Featured member operators included Melanie Gamache of Borealis Beading and Jenny Dupas of Moon Gate Guest House.