Building on the successes of PEI festivals and events

News release

Fund supports new product and diverse, sustainable growth of Island tourism industry  

November 17, 2023 · Rustico, Prince Edward Island · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

A vibrant tourism sector is essential to Prince Edward Island’s growing economy. Festivals and events in Island communities offer authentic experiences to visitors, provide employment opportunities throughout the year and invite tourists to explore every corner of the province. Through ACOA, the Government of Canada is supporting a more diverse and inclusive economy that attracts more visitors to the region.  

Creating innovative and authentic experiences

Today, Heath MacDonald, Member of Parliament for Malpeque, announced an investment of $650,100 for the Tourism Industry Association of Prince Edward Island (TIAPEI) to support new and diverse product development in PEI’s tourism industry. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA.

The contribution, administered through the PEI Events Innovation Fund 2023-24, is supporting more than 30 projects that will help expand PEI’s tourism offerings during all four seasons. These projects showcase the Island’s cultural and culinary assets in new and fresh ways, while ensuring sustainable growth in the industry.

Today’s announcement demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to tourism in Atlantic Canada by helping the region’s tourism operators develop and deliver world-class tourism experiences.     

Quotes

“From up west to down east, PEI’s hospitality is world-famous, and that doesn’t just end in the summer. Its communities have so much to offer visitors all year long, so we’re helping unlock that potential. That means more jobs for Islanders and more memories for visitors. A win-win.”

- The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA

“Developing festivals and events with a direct connection to our communities is an investment in ourselves. These events become a real point of pride, a chance to gather and celebrate, and they are a creative way to also spark real economic opportunity in rural communities.”

-  Heath MacDonald, Member of Parliament for Malpeque

“The continued support of the PEI Events Innovation Fund allows us to work closely with festivals and events across the island to strategically enhance and grow the festival and event offerings. The success of this fund strengthens the island's tourism product, ensuring a vibrant and compelling range of experiences all year long, significantly contributing to community development and the economic growth of Prince Edward Island.” 

- Corryn Clemence, CEO, Tourism Industry Association of Prince Edward Island

Quick facts

  • The Government of Canada is providing a $650,100 (non-repayable) investment through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s (ACOA) Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) to the Tourism Industry Association of Prince Edward Island (TIAPEI).

  • The Tourism Industry Association of Prince Edward Island (TIAPEI) is a not-for-profit, membership-based organization dedicated to the promotion and advancement of Prince Edward Island's tourism industry. TIAPEI advocates and supports policies, programs and activities that benefit the continued growth and development of the province's tourism industry. 

Associated links

Contacts

Kevin Lemkay
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development
and of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Kevin.Lemkay@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Sharon McGuigan
Manager of Communications
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Sharon.McGuigan@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Corryn Clemence
CEO
TIAPEI
cclemence@tiapei.pe.ca

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