With its rugged coastlines, rich maritime history, vibrant cultural experiences, and unparalleled opportunities for iceberg, whale, and seabird watching, the Bonavista Peninsula is one of Newfoundland and Labrador’s premier tourism destinations. The Government of Canada, together with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, is investing to help communities build on the region’s tourism potential and improve experiences for residents and tourists alike.

“Newfoundland and Labrador has what the tourism visitor is looking for - especially the rugged and magical Bonavista Peninsula. The investments your federal government is making today will boost the local economy and make the communities that support these visitors even stronger.”

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

“With its diverse attractions, experiences and amenities, the Bonavista Peninsula region has a lot to be proud of. Projects like those announced today are creating more opportunities for tourism, building momentum in the region and moving us forward toward a stronger, brighter future.”

-        Churence Rogers, Member of Parliament for Bonavista—Burin—Trinity

“Our government continues to champion our province as an incredible destination for tourism and business investment. This funding supports economic development initiatives, innovation and capacity building in the Bonavista Peninsula region of the province. The projects are an essential part of building a successful and sustainable tourism industry in the area, and we are pleased to partner with these organizations and appreciate the important work they continue to do.”

      -    The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology 

“Rising Tide Theatre is proud to contribute to the economic and cultural life of this magnificent place we call home. Great achievements come with dedicated and passionate teams and with strong and supportive partners. ACOA and the provincial government have always been there for us, without their faith and commitment such growth and impact simply would not be possible. Communities thrive when we work hard, and we build together as we have had the honour to do in Trinity since 1993.”

      -    Donna Butt, Founder/Senior Producer, Rising Tide Theatre

“Tourism Elliston is so very appreciative of the funding received today from ACOA and the Province to grow Roots, Rants and Roars to a broader regional level.  Already recognized as one of Canada’s top culinary festivals, these funds will help enhance and expand the annual Roots Rants and Roars festival to include activities throughout the Bonavista region resulting in significant economic benefits for the entire area.”

-        Marilyn Coles-Hayley, Chairperson, Tourism Elliston

“We would like to thank ACOA and the Province for the funding received today by the Home from the Sea Foundation which will help ensure the sustainability of the Sealers Interpretation Centre and Sealers Memorial in Elliston.  This funding will provide increased marketing activities including interactive visitor and multimedia experiences resulting in increased visitation, broader programming and an enriched visitor experience.”

-        Chris Collingwood, Chairperson, Home from the Sea Foundation

“ACOA and the Provincial Government’s support for our hydroponic farm project is a game-changer for the Bonavista Peninsula, driving local economic growth while tackling food insecurity head-on. This investment will empower our communities to access fresh, nutritious produce and create sustainable employment opportunities.”

      -    Laura Bishop, Chairperson, SaltWater Community Association Inc.

“We are grateful to ACOA and the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador for its ongoing support of the Bonavista Biennale. Funding has allowed us to provide an important platform for contemporary art while also encouraging significant tourist spending and job creation throughout the Bonavista Peninsula."

      -    Sue Balint, Executive Director, Bonavista Biennale

“As a not-for-profit interpretive tourist attraction with charitable status, the Cape Random Trust Inc. has been operating on the Bonavista Peninsula for over 20 years. ACOA and the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador have been with us every step of the way, offering advice and financial support as we strive to develop a high-quality visitor experience. As we move into an era of new challenges and opportunities, we are looking forward to continuing our collaboration with ACOA, the Province and the other tourism operators in our region."

      -    Dawne Marlow, Chairperson, Cape Random Trust Inc.

• The Newfoundland and Labrador tourism industry contributes $1.14 billion annually to the local economy. Tourism is helping many people earn a living, and creating a great place to live, visit, and invest in our future.

• There are more than 2,700 tourism businesses in Newfoundland and Labrador.

• The federal funding announced today is delivered through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)’s Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program and the Innovative Communities Fund (ICF).

• The Province of Newfoundland and Labrador’s investments are delivered through the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology.

Associated links

• Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI)
• Innovative Communities Fund (ICF)
• Department of Industry, Energy and Technology
• Rising Tide Association
• Tourism Elliston – Roots, Rants and Roars
• Home from the Sea
• SaltWater Community Association
• Bonavista Biennale
• Cape Random Trust – Random Passage Site

Connor Burton

Press Secretary

Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development and of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

Connor.Burton@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Paul McGrath

Director of Communications

Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

709-689-5731

Paul.Mcgrath@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Lesley Clarke

Media Relations Manager

Industry, Energy and Technology

709-729-5777, 709-699-2910

lesleyclarke@gov.nl.ca