After being approved for a $25,000 grant in January 2025, Carey Perkins, a Kanienʼkehá:ka from Akwesasne and the owner of Niio Perkins Designs, is still waiting to receive the funds meant to cover studio space, insurance, and overhead expenses.
Perkins is one of many small business owners who have yet to receive funding from the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC).
Expressing her frustration, Perkins stated, “Now it’s just, everything is collapsing.” Due to the delay, she fell behind on her studio space insurance and eventually had to vacate the space in August 2025.
ITAC, as per its 2023-24 annual report, focuses on fostering authentic Indigenous tourism in Canada through various initiatives such as development, marketing, leadership, and partnerships.
In early 2025, the Indigenous Tourism Fund’s Micro and Small Business Stream (MSBS), administered by ITAC, distributed around $3.3 million in federal funding to 136 Indigenous tourism businesses.
In response to the delayed payments, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada assured that they are investigating the matter to ensure that the rightful recipients are reimbursed.
Keith Henry, the President and CEO of ITAC, acknowledged that some individuals are still awaiting payments from the MSBS program. He mentioned that while most projects have been settled, about 10% remain outstanding and will be paid once the necessary revenues are received.
Henry further highlighted that ITAC has supported numerous development projects and is actively managing its finances to meet its obligations and ensure a stable financial future.
Challenges with Fund Disbursement
Perkins shared her disappointment with ITAC’s requirement to spend the funds before actually receiving them, which hindered her plans to expand her business beyond her community.
Similarly, Aïcha Smith-Belghaba, a Kanienʼkehá:ka and Algerian from Six Nations of the Grand River, faced a similar situation after being approved for a $25,000 MSBS grant in January 2025. Despite submitting the necessary documentation, she has not yet received the promised funding.
Smith-Belghaba, the owner of Esha’s Eats, expressed how the delay has adversely affected her business and forced her to scale back her operations, deviating from her original plans to grow and support other Indigenous businesses in her community.
Concerns Raised at Tourism Conference
Following an Indigenous tourism conference hosted by ITAC in Edmonton, several Indigenous-owned businesses, including 49 Dzine led by Nathan Rainy Chief, reported delayed payments for services provided during the event.
Rainy Chief emphasized the importance of honoring Indigenous protocols, especially in compensating elders and knowledge keepers promptly. He highlighted the challenges faced in receiving payments and the need for transparency and accountability from ITAC.
Financial Strain and Hopes for Future Funding
Despite financial constraints, ITAC remains hopeful for future funding from the Passion Project Foundation based in the U.K., which committed substantial support to ITAC. The delay in receiving this funding has led to operational cutbacks within ITAC until the anticipated funds are received.
While ITAC continues to navigate financial challenges, stakeholders are eager for a resolution to ensure the sustainability of Indigenous tourism initiatives in Canada.
