Val-d'Or, Quebec, May 12, 2008 – The Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of Labour and Minister of Canada Economic Development, today announced the awarding of $175,105 in non-repayable funding to Tourisme Abitibi-Témiscamingue for the implementation of a targeted commercialization strategy.
The project involves building a brand image for the region through development of a logo, corporate signature and various communications tools. To that end, the organization intends to produce and publish a series of brochures, mount a website (generation 2.0), develop a marketing plan and place advertisements on the Internet, in specialty magazines and on television.
"The region's tourism industry as a whole stands to benefit from this Tourisme Abitibi-Témiscamingue project, which will give businesses in the sector an appealing window through which to showcase and promote their services to the Ontario and United States markets. Encouraging the development of major tourism projects is one of our government's priorities, as evidenced by my recent announcement of the 2008-2011 strategic plan Tuned in to the regions – Tuned in to business. With its $67 million budget allocation over three years, this plan will allow us to help fund the modernization of tourist attractions and, in so doing, raise Abitibi-Témiscamingue's tourism appeal while fostering the growth of the region's economy," explained Minister Blackburn.
This Tourisme Abitibi-Témiscamingue commercialization strategy is the result of concerted effort by the region's business community and operators of natural sites and attractions. Activities selected by the members include the organization of specialized tourism shows that will be open to the media and advertising campaigns for the 2008 summer and 2008-2009 winter seasons.
"Canada Economic Development is committing itself once again to working hand-in-hand with stakeholders in the various regions of Quebec to further projects that will bring new impetus to their local economies and redefine the future of their communities," Minister Blackburn concluded.
-30-
Sources:
François Bélisle
Communications
Canada Economic Development
Tel.: 819-825-5260, ext. 235
E-mail: francois.belisle@dec-ced.gc.ca
Sylvain Frenette
Office of the Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn
Canada Economic Development
Tel.: 514-496-1282
E-mail: sylvain.frenette@dec-ced.gc.ca
