Culture & Adventure Boost Cape Breton Tourism
News release
Government of Canada supports tourism growth on Cape Breton Island
June 25 – 2018 – Baddeck, N.S. – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Last year was the best year ever for tourism in Canada, as we welcomed a record of 20.8 million international visitors to our shores. The tourism industry is an important economic driver in our communities, as one in 10 jobs in Canada is associated with the visitor economy. Investing in tourism projects in both big cities and small towns throughout Atlantic Canada is essential to growing this important economic sector for Canadians. By investing in our tourism sector, we attract new visitors, grow businesses and create new ones, generating economic growth for the middle class.
That is why the Government of Canada is investing $165,000 in the Destination Cape Breton Association (DCBA) to support its festivals and events initiative on Cape Breton Island. Rodger Cuzner, Parliamentary Secretary for Employment, Workforce Development and Labour and Member of Parliament for Cape Breton – Canso, made the announcement today at the Alexander Graham Bell Museum on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, and Minister responsible for Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA). The non-repayable contribution is being made through ACOA’s Business Development Program.
In collaboration with the Island’s five regional municipalities, DCBA will administer funding support to non-profits hosting festivals and events for the 2018-2019 season. Successful non-profits can access cost-sharing assistance based on the ability to generate new visitation to the Island.
DCBA understands that our visitors value discovering Cape Breton’s culture - which is often the highlight of festivals and events - and these experiences are a primary driver of visitation to the Island. Promoting local culture fosters new growth within the sector and keeps Cape Breton relevant in the global tourism market.
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 create long-term growth and position the region to take advantage of emerging tourism opportunities.
Quotes
“The Government of Canada knows that our country’s tourism industry is truly world-class. We are proud to be able to assist opportunities that stimulate the region’s economy and display our rich, storied history to the world. Cape Breton Island has much to offer its residents and visitors, and this project ensures the world will know it.”
- The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA
“As a tourism leader, Destination Cape Breton Association mobilizes the local industry and helps members leverage new opportunities and maximize returns for tourism. Destination Cape Breton markets our Island to the world, generating positive economic outcomes for the region that include increased spending and extended visitor stays in urban, rural, and remote areas of our Island.”
- Rodger Cuzner, Parliamentary Secretary for Employment, Workforce Development and Labour and Member of Parliament for Cape Breton – Canso
“Destination Cape Breton recognizes that the visitors we target to come to Cape Breton Island thrive on experiencing our local culture and all that it is. The festivals and events that are supported through this festival and events initiative translate into increased visitation and a positive economic impact Island wide."
- Mary Tulle, CEO of Destination Cape Breton Association
Quick facts
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In 2016, international visitors accounted for $20 billion in tourism revenue, while domestic travelers came in at just under $72 billion.
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In 2016, Cape Breton saw a 15% increase in room nights sold over the previous year.
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In 2017, DCBA received a three-year Government of Canada investment, totaling $1.92 million, to implement its 2017-2019 strategic plan to grow tourism spending on Cape Breton Island.
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In 2017-2018, DCBA supported over 90 local festivals and events.
Contacts
Alex Smith
Director of Communications and Outreach
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Phone: 902-426-9417 / 902-830-3839 (cell)
E-mail: alex.smith@canada.ca
Mary Tulle
Chief Executive Officer
Destination Cape Breton Association
Phone: 902-539-0300 (office)
E-mail: mary@dcba.ca