Good morning! Welcome back to Queen Street Analytics' weekly roundup of regulatory developments, legislative discussions, political announcements and other government-related news concerning hotels, restaurants, event and sports venues, cruise lines, casinos, gambling, theme parks, ski resorts, outdoor spaces, RV parks, and other travel and tourism professionals.

Every Monday, we break down the most important updates in this space in under five minutes.

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Start Date: 2025-03-01
End Date: 2025-03-08

Top Headlines

Main Stories

Indigenous Tourism Sector Expansion

On March 5, 2025, the Government of Canada announced financial support for ten Indigenous tourism projects through the Indigenous Tourism Fund's Signature Indigenous Tourism Experiences Stream. Among the recipients are Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations in Quebec and Métis Crossing LTD in Alberta, each receiving $1 million to modernize and enhance their offerings. This initiative is expected to bring 187,000 additional tourists and create approximately 200 new jobs for Indigenous Peoples.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Tourism Investments in British Columbia

PacifiCan announced over $4.3 million in funding for 24 tourism projects in British Columbia on March 5, 2025. Projects include the creation of the Gitanyow Reconciliation Trail and the launch of a global market development program by Destination BC. These initiatives aim to attract more visitors and enhance local tourism offerings.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Alberta Tourism Experiences to Expand

PrairiesCan is investing over $2.9 million in nine Alberta tourism projects, as announced on March 5, 2025. Projects include enhancing Indigenous heritage experiences at Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park and developing new artisan trades at Parallèle Alberta. This investment supports the Federal Tourism Growth Strategy and is expected to support approximately 120 jobs.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Jasper's Recovery Efforts Supported

On March 6, 2025, PrairiesCan announced over $2 million in funding for Jasper's recovery efforts following the 2024 wildfires. Initiatives include a retail pop-up business village and affordable housing development. These efforts aim to rejuvenate the local economy and support the tourism sector as Jasper rebuilds.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Festivals Grow in Hamilton with Federal Support

On March 7, 2025, the Government of Canada, through FedDev Ontario, announced over $320,000 in investments for three Hamilton festivals. Sonic Unyon Records will enhance the 'Because Beer Craft Beer Festival' with $185,000, Festitalia receives $100,000 for its 50th Anniversary Expo, and Centre Francophone Hamilton gains $38,500 for FrancoFEST. These investments aim to attract more visitors and bolster the local economy.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Important Updates

Secondary Stories

Tourism Experiences Expand in Southern Ontario

Southern Ontario is seeing growth in tourism experiences, supported by investments from FedDev Ontario. This expansion is part of a broader strategy to boost local economies and attract more visitors.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Hamilton Tourism Growth Projects Announced

The Government of Canada announced new support for festivals and events in Hamilton, expected to enhance local tourism and economic development.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Federal Investments in Alberta Tourism

PrairiesCan is directing funds to nine Alberta projects to showcase landscapes and cultural experiences, supporting job creation and small business growth.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Provincial Announcements

Alberta Invests in Sport and Recreation Facilities

Alberta’s government has invested $10 million in the Active Communities Initiative to improve sport and recreation infrastructure across the province.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: www.alberta.ca

Public Officials' Social Media

MP Ahmed Hussen Meets Youth in Hospitality

MP Ahmed Hussen shared insights from the Youth Career Summit, highlighting young Canadians eager to explore careers in hospitality and other sectors.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

MP Patricia Lattanzio Promotes Local Tourism

MP Patricia Lattanzio encourages residents to support local businesses and participate in community activities during March Break.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

MP Michael Kram Supports Local Cuisine

MP Michael Kram recommends Wally B's Jamaican Jerk Restaurant as a local alternative to Caribbean vacations.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

MP Shuvaloy Majumdar on Small Business Challenges

MP Shuvaloy Majumdar highlights the challenges faced by small businesses like Rozzini’s in Braeside due to rising costs and inflation.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

What We're Reading This Week

• CTV News: Examining the uncertain revival of the tourism industry five years after COVID.
• The Star: Exploring immersive travel experiences through homestays in Nepal.
• Toronto Sun: Canadian travel industry urged to respond to U.S. tariffs.
• Global News: New Brunswick's tourism industry prepares for potential impacts of U.S. tariffs.