Introducing TIAC TALK: Action

February 2026

Dear TIAC Members,

I’m pleased to share a refreshed approach to how TIAC connects with you. We are launching two distinct newsletters designed to better reflect the scope of our work and to support a more focused, meaningful connection with members.

This newsletter, TIAC Talk: Action, will share insights on policy priorities, sector issues, and advocacy activity, including highlights from our wins in 2025. We are also releasing a newsletter dedicated to events and member services. Titled TIAC Talk: Community, it will spotlight upcoming events, programs, and services that bring members together, and support your work across the tourism sector.

Having joined TIAC just a few months ago, I see 2026 as an important moment for our organization. It is a year to deepen collaboration, elevate members' voices, and ensure our work is shaped by the needs and expertise of those we represent. This new approach to our communications is one way we are reinforcing that commitment.

Thank you for your continued leadership, partnership, and engagement as we work to strengthen Canada’s tourism industry.

Sébastien Benedict

President and CEO

Tourism Industry Association of Canada

2025 Advocacy Wins

Policy Leadership. Member Impact. Sector Growth.

In 2025, TIAC delivered measurable advocacy results that strengthened Canada’s tourism sector. Through direct engagement with federal officials, we secured new funding, influenced policy decisions, and helped remove barriers affecting tourism operators across the country.

These outcomes reflect TIAC’s role as the national voice of tourism—and show the value of a unified sector working together for results.

Policy Influence & Government Advocacy

TIAC successfully influenced key decisions at the federal level that improved operations, unlocked investment, and supported recovery across the visitor economy.

✈️ Federal Funding and Infrastructure Support

TIAC secured renewed investment in the Airport Capital Assistance Program (ACAP) through the 2025 Federal Budget and Fall Economic Statement, ensuring critical infrastructure upgrades for regional and local airports.

We also championed targeted employment support aimed at bolstering Canada’s youth workforce—building the foundation for a stronger, more resilient tourism labour market.

🌐 Business Events Sector Investment

TIAC influenced the 2024 Fall Economic Statement to include an additional $10 million for the International Convention Attraction Fund (ICAF). This funding empowers Canadian destinations to attract high-value global conventions, creating significant economic returns for Canadian cities and their tourism networks.

📄 Faster Labour and Visitor Visa Processing

In partnership with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), TIAC helped reduce processing times for visitor visas and study permits—directly benefiting tourism businesses reliant on international travellers and the education sector.

Learn more

Thank you to our

INDUSTRY PATRONS

Other issues we're working on...

Pre-Clearance

The tourism sector thrives on a welcoming first impression. That’s why TIAC has weighed in with the federal government on preclearance legislation, bringing a strong, industry-driven voice to the table.

Tourism at the Table in Canada–China Engagement

Tourism took a prominent seat alongside trade and energy during the Prime Minister’s recent visit to China, signalling its growing importance in Canada’s global economic agenda. Commitments to cultural exchange, stronger partnerships, visa-free travel for Canadians, and a new agreement between Destination Canada and China Media Group signal renewed momentum for Canada–China travel.

Help Shape Better Access to Financing for Tourism Businesses

Tourism in Canada is powered by thousands of small- and medium-sized businesses, yet many face persistent challenges accessing affordable, competitive financing. The Competition Bureau of Canada has launched a market study to examine how well the SME financing market is working, and where it may be falling short. This is an important opportunity for tourism operators to share real-world experiences and help influence recommendations that could improve access to capital across Canada. Tourism businesses and stakeholders are encouraged to make their voices heard by February 27, 2026.

Parliament Is Back...

...and so is the opportunity to show how tourism drives real impact—right down to the riding level.

Whether you're meeting with elected officials, community leaders, or other decision-makers, arm yourself with the facts.

🧭 Our Local Impact Tool breaks down tourism’s contribution to jobs and businesses in every federal riding across Canada.

Tourism builds communities. Tourism fuels the economy. Share the data and be part of the momentum.

National Tourism Week 2026

April 20–24, 2026 | Ottawa, Ontario

Now in its 16th year, National Tourism Week (NTW) is a dynamic, weeklong social media campaign organized by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC). This event is a platform for highlighting the pivotal role tourism plays as part of Canada’s economy and indeed, its identity. TIAC, along with its partners, is inviting all Canadians to partake in celebrating the nation's finest offerings to the world.

Rendez-vous Canada 2026

May 26–29, 2026 | Metro Toronto Convention Centre

Rendez-vous Canada (RVC) is Canada’s signature international tourism marketplace, co-produced by Destination Canada and the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC). For nearly 50 years, this event has shone the spotlight on Canada, connecting international travel buyers with Canadian tourism businesses and creating meaningful opportunities from coast to coast to coast.

Why Join TIAC?

As a TIAC member, you influence policy, access exclusive events and insights, connect with industry leaders, and gain recognition for your commitment to excellence. Your membership isn’t just a card—it’s a seat at the table where Canada’s tourism future is shaped.

Explore the other benefits

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