Indigenous Quebec wins two IITC awards!
Wendake, November 18, 2019 – As the representative and key interlocutor of our unique industry, Indigenous Tourism Quebec (ITQ) would like to congratulate two of its members who were honoured at the International Indigenous Tourism Conference (IITC). This recognition once again demonstrates that Indigenous tourism is an important differentiating factor of Quebec and Canada as tourism destinations.
About the IITC
The IITC is an annual event that brings together people who contribute to the development and the growth of the Indigenous tourism industry. This year, the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) hosted the 8th edition of the conference on Syilx territory at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Grand Okanagan Resort in Kelowna, in British Colombia, from November 12 to 14.
Best Marketing Campaign of the Year Award
ITQ congratulates its member Vacances Essipit, in the Essipit Innu community, for winning the Best Marketing Campaign of the Year award. The award recognizes an Indigenous tourism business or organization that has planned and implemented an effective marketing campaign or program showing real results and leveraging paid, earned, shared, and/or owned media.
Located only a few kilometers from Tadoussac, Vacances Essipit offers an adventure into the great outdoors. Sea kayaking, hunting, fishing, bear watching are among the activities available. The spectacular view of the St. Lawrence River and the natural lakes makes it a great place to watch whales and marine life. Visitors can take the opportunity to relax in modern condo-hotels, well-equipped rental cottages, forest outfitters or campgrounds. They will be captivated by the well-kept secrets of an age-old culture passed down from generation to generation.
Most Improved Business Award
ITQ congratulates Gespeg Micmac Interpretation Site, the recipient of the award of Most Improved Business, recognizing an Indigenous tourism business which has significantly improved its market/export readiness allowing for stronger business opportunities and its ability to meet and exceed consumer and travel trade expectations.
Located on a headland on the north side of Gaspé Bay, at the foot of the mountain and close to the forest, the Gespeg Micmac Interpretation Site is a window to Mi’gmaq culture from the past to today. Visitors learn about Mi’gmaq presence in the Gaspé region as well as the history and culture. They can explore the Mi’gmaq world in the interpretation centre and gift shop as well as in the replica of a 17th-century traditional village and summer camp.
About Indigenous Tourism Quebec
ITQ is the sectoral tourism association recognized by the provincial ministry of tourism as the official representative of Indigenous tourism and by the Assembly of the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador as the key interlocutor for tourism. Dedicated to the marketing of Indigenous tourism experiences and products, ITQ provides Quebec’s Indigenous tourism entrepreneurs with a representative body that safeguards their interests, supports their development and offers a range of products and services that promote business development, improve business practices and increase their visibility in tourism markets. Founded over 28 years ago, ITQ is the country’s first provincial tourism association.
In Quebec, the number of Indigenous tourism enterprises has more than doubled since the early 2000s. Each year, Indigenous Quebec welcomes 1.2 million visitors, sustains about 4,200 jobs and generates an estimated $169 million in economic benefits.
The ITQ team whole-heartedly congratulates the winners for enhancing the visibility of Indigenous Quebec!
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Source and information: Patricia Auclair, Operation Manager | pauclair@tourismeautochtone.com / 418 254-5067
Dave Laveau, General Manager of ITQ, represents Essipit Vacations with Brenda Holder, Chair of ITAC.
Kalika Sinnett, Director and Fanny Langlois, Gespeg Tourism Marketing Officer with Jason Picard-Binet, ITAC Board Member.