Atlantic Canada tourism taking off with new investments and unforgettable experiences
News release
Government of Canada announces over $7.1 million for 68 projects to grow the region’s visitor economy
November 28, 2025 · Moncton, New Brunswick · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
Atlantic Canada tourism never takes a vacation - it is a year-round economic engine. It creates jobs, supports local businesses, and helps communities share what makes this region special. After a standout summer for tourism across Canada, Atlantic Canada led the way with some of the fastest growth in the country. The Government of Canada is building on this momentum by investing in projects that develop local tourism experiences and attract more visitors from across Canada and around the world.
Today, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, highlighted over $7.1 million in support for 68 projects through the Tourism Growth Program (TGP) to help strengthen Atlantic Canada’s tourism ecosystem. The projects include infrastructure upgrades, new visitor experiences, and marketing initiatives to attract more travellers and extend the tourist season.
The TGP is a part of the Federal Tourism Growth Strategy, which aims to build a more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient tourism sector across Canada. This investment reinforces the government’s commitment to promote Atlantic Canada as a world-class destination and expand its reach to new markets.
Quotes
“Tourism is about people - our communities, our stories, and the pride we take in where we live. These investments help Atlantic Canadians showcase what makes this region special, while creating opportunities that last all year long.”
- The Honourable Sean Fraser, P.C., K.C., Member of Parliament for Central Nova, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
“Tourism is a key driver of Canada’s inclusive and sustainable economy. By investing in Atlantic Canada’s unique experiences, we’re creating jobs, boosting productivity, and ensuring this region shines on the world stage for generations to come.”
- The Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism)
Quick facts
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The Tourism Growth Program (TGP) is a key component of the Federal Tourism Growth Strategy. In Atlantic Canada, ACOA is investing $10.6 million over three years through the TGP to empower businesses and organizations to grow and strengthen local economies.
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According to Statistics Canada’s National Tourism Indicators released in September 2025:
- Tourism spending increased in the second quarter of 2025, due to strong domestic tourism activity.
- The number of tourism-related jobs in Canada reached 712,100 in the second quarter of 2025, with food and beverage, and recreation and entertainment among the highest contributing sectors.
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Atlantic Canada’s tourism sector is comprised of over 12,285 businesses across food and beverage services, accommodations, recreation and entertainment, transportation and travel services generating over 121,000 jobs in the region in 2024.
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Tourism is a major employer for Atlantic Canadians living outside major cities, representing approximately 9.5 percent of all local jobs in rural communities.
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Industries that rely on tourism contributed 3.87 percent of Atlantic Canada’s GDP in 2024.
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Contacts
Lola Dandybaeva
Manager of Media Relations
Office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
343-549-0347
lola.dandybaeva@justice.gc.ca
Media Relations
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
mediaroom-salledesmedias@acoa-apeca.gc.ca