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Indigenous-Owned Tourism Businesses
Join a diverse and growing community within the tourism ecosystem. ITBC welcomes your business to connect with community, resources, and support.
Indigenous-owned tourism businesses are the foundation of a vibrant and authentic visitor economy in British Columbia. Whether you offer guided land-based experiences, cultural performances, accommodations, culinary offerings, or retail spaces—your work brings Indigenous culture to life and invites the world to engage with it respectfully and meaningfully.
At Indigenous Tourism BC, we see your business as more than a service—it’s a living expression of who you are, where you come from, and the knowledge systems that continue to thrive through Indigenous tourism. You are helping shape the narrative of Indigenous tourism, setting standards for cultural integrity, sustainability and creating real economic opportunities in your community.
How We Support Businesses
Visitor-ready tourism businesses are operating in good standing and are open for visitors with a dedicated storefront or brick-and-mortar location. These businesses receive benefits to help develop and grow their tourism business.
Market-ready businesses are dependable, responsive, and consistent—key traits partners and visitors can count on. They maintain up-to-date information, communicate efficiently year-round, and have an existing digital presence. Being Market-Ready means showing up online, in person, and in every interaction.
Export-ready businesses are well established and confidently welcome international visitors. They offer consistent, bookable experiences, understand trade pricing, and are prepared to work with global travel partners. With strong operations, clear policies, and a commitment to quality, they’re ready to share their story and experience with the world.
Indigenous-owned Designations
All Indigenous-owned tourism businesses are automatically awarded the Indigenous-owned Designation. This offers an ease of identification to visitors, media, travel trade, industry, government and other organizations, as well as marketing benefits across ITBC platforms. This designation assures visitors that their choice to support Indigenous-owned tourism businesses directly contributes to successful and self-determined First Nations and Indigenous participation in the BC tourism industry. This designation also educates the media on the importance of cultural protection.
Authentic Indigenous Designation
Market-Ready and Export Ready Indigenous-owned tourism businesses have the opportunity to apply for the Authentic Indigenous Designation. This designation recognizes businesses that go above and beyond to revitalize and protect Indigenous cultures, languages, and Traditional Territories in B.C. This means visitors can engage with Indigenous cultures meaningfully and respectfully, knowing their visit helps preserve traditions, empower local communities, and protect the environment. The designation showcases your dedication to preserving and sharing Indigenous culture with the world.