Promoting PEI as an Authentic Coastal Destination for Meetings and Conventions

News Release

Nearly $660,000 will help market the Island as an event destination of choice to increase visitation and grow the local economy

October 25, 2017 – Charlottetown, PE – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

The governments of Canada and PEI recognize the wide-reaching economic benefits of tourism for the Island. That is why they are supporting the efforts of Meetings & Conventions PEI (M&CPEI) as they work to grow the market and showcase the province as a uniquely attractive, worldwide destination to host events. The funds will enable the non-profit organization to promote the Island’s diverse cultural and culinary offerings, as well as the business amenities available in its rural and urban regions to draw more events and delegates to the area, mainly during the shoulder season.

Sean Casey, Member of Parliament for Charlottetown, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), along with the Honourable Heath MacDonald, PEI Minister of Economic Development and Tourism, made the announcement today to support PEI’s growing meeting and convention industry.

Through its Business Development Program, ACOA is providing a non-repayable contribution of $400,000 over the next two years to M&CPEI for the implementation of its strategic plan, which will expand marketing and sales activities, and target industry development through membership engagement, familiarization tours, tradeshows and conferences. The Government of Prince Edward Island is providing a one year contribution of $259,900 to the organization to support growth in this key sector of the tourism industry.

This investment builds on commitments made by the Government of Canada and the four Atlantic provinces to drive economic growth in the region through the Atlantic Growth Strategy, which involves targeted actions to stimulate Atlantic Canada’s economy, including supporting strategic projects that position the region to capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Quotes

“Meetings & Conventions PEI has a deep understanding of the distinct experiences our Island has to offer and a passion for marketing it to others. More and more organizations are bringing their conventions here, seeking PEI’s rich, authentic offerings, as well as the world class professional services that are found here. An investment like this benefits so many aspects of our economy, from the cultural workers to the many small businesses that create our vibrant tourism scene, in addition to the accommodations, restaurant and transportation sectors.” 

  • Sean Casey, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Member of Parliament for Charlottetown

“Over the last number of years Meetings and Conventions PEI has done tremendous work shaping our province into a world class destination for meetings of just about any size. The organization works collaboratively with all sectors of the tourism industry to ensure delegates get the most out of their time on the Island and to keep our province in mind when planning their next vacation.”

  • The Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Economic Development and Tourism

“The meetings and convention business contributes significantly to the growth of tourism and economic development in Prince Edward Island. Meetings & Convention PEI is grateful to our funding partners that support our initiatives including the development and implementation of our three year strategic plan. This plan provides our road map and action items for growth, new opportunities for PEI operators, communities and the Province. The keys to our success continue to be built on strong partnerships, effective governance and member engagement. Combining this with a talented staff, Meetings and Conventions Prince Edward Island are uniquely positioned to grow the impact of meetings and conventions across the province.”

  • James Tingley, President, M&CPEI

Quick Facts

    • In 2016, M&CPEI reported that 101 meetings were held in PEI, attracting 15,400 delegates, and resulting in a total direct investment of $20,270,515 into the provincial economy.

    • The meetings and conventions business in Canada is a growing market. M&CPEI generates most of its business in PEI outside of the peak tourism season (July and August).

    • Tourism has been identified as a priority for economic growth in the Atlantic Growth Strategy. ACOA is working in collaboration with businesses, organizations, and government agencies at all levels in the region to create an innovative, sustainable tourism industry in Atlantic Canada.

Contacts

Chris Brooks
Director of Communications
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-566-7569
 
Andrew Sprague
Senior Communications Officer
Department of Economic Development and Tourism
902-368-5535
 
Ann Worth
Executive Director
M&CPEI
902-629-1655

Page details

Date modified: