PrairiesCan invests more than $2.9 million in nine local projects to strengthen tourism and cultural experiences across Alberta
Tourism is a powerful economic driver that brings measurable benefits to Alberta communities and their residents. Every trip-from a weekend getaway to an epic cross-country vacation-helps to create jobs, sustain livelihoods, and boosts the businesses and communities that make the Prairies a top tourist destination choice.
Today, the Honourable Terry Duguid, Minister for PrairiesCan, announced a federal investment of over $2.9 million for nine projects to showcase the province's diverse landscapes, Indigenous-led experiences, and unique attractions. Each of these venues offers Albertans an opportunity to support local while providing visitors from across Canada and around the world a chance to discover the places, spaces and culture that Alberta has to offer.
Examples of projects receiving support include:
- Tourism Calgary is receiving over $434,000 to expand inclusive programming for Chinook Blast in 2025 and 2026, develop Indigenous programming for the 2026 Grey Cup, and develop a new Indigenous music festival.
- Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park in Siksika is receiving $350,000 to expand access to active Indigenous heritage experiences by improving visitor spaces, gallery displays, and exhibit content.
- Parallèle Alberta is receiving over $573,000 to develop and market six new Économusées that will highlight traditional artisan trades as sustainable business models in Alberta.
Canada's tourism sector is diverse, creating inclusive employment opportunities for women, racialized individuals, members of 2SLGBTQI+ communities, Indigenous people, youth, and newcomers. Projects announced today advance economic reconciliation and small business growth in Alberta's tourism sector.
Today's investments are expected to support approximately 120 jobs. This announcement reflects the principles of the Government of Canada's Framework to Build a Green Prairie Economy, a long-term commitment to work collaboratively with partners across the Prairies on their priorities to seize new possibilities for good-paying jobs in a globally competitive economy.
