Local impact of the tourism sector

From job creation to sustaining local businesses, the tourism sector is a vital part of our economy. Tourism businesses in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) demonstrated resiliency throughout the 2025 season despite the challenges posed by wildfires and drought conditions. The industry delivers impact, contributing $1.4 billion in economic activity to the province each year. 

Photo courtesy of Ray Mackey

The Tourism Industry of Canada (TIAC) has launched a new tool to discover how tourism directly impacts your local community — through job creation, business development, and economic growth. It emphasizes the importance of tourism in fostering local economies and enhancing community livelihoods. Explore the data by electoral district: tourismcan.ca/local-impact/.  

Operating in a fast-moving and competitive environment, tourism businesses in NL are constantly exploring new ways to grow and innovate. Later this month, the 2026 Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador’s Conference and Trade Show is set to take place in St. John’s, at the Jag Soundhouse February 24-26. This event is the largest annual gathering of the province’s tourism community, focusing on building business resilience, sustainable growth, and collaborative success.

Call for Proposals - Markets on Water 2026

The City of St. John’s is inviting local event and market organizers to submit proposals to host a vendor market series on the Downtown Pedestrian Mall during the 2026 season, from July 4 to September 7. Visit the City’s website for highlights and information on how to submit. The deadline for proposals is Friday, February 13, 2026.

Let's celebrate those who make a difference in our community

The St. John's Applause Awards celebrates people and organizations who demonstrate leadership, creativity, service, and commitment in areas that contribute to St. John’s quality of life and long-term sustainability. Nominations are now open in nine major award categories:

• Arts and Culture
• Athletes of the Year
• Climate Change Leadership
• Councillor Debbie Hanlon Award for Senior of the Year
• Heritage
• Innovative Housing Design
• Tourism
• Volunteer of the Year
• Youth of the Year

Submit your nomination by March 1 at StJohns.ca/Applause.

NL Summer Employment Program Wage Subsidy

The Provincial Government is now accepting applications from eligible non-profit and private sector employers for the 2026 Summer Employment Program for Students. The Program helps connect young people with meaningful work opportunities across Newfoundland and Labrador. For information on the program employers can email EmploymentPrograms@gov.nl.ca.



Applications close Thursday, February 19, 2026.

Pelorus Venture Capital launches Venture NL III

Following two back-to-back years with Newfoundland and Labrador leading the way in venture capital investment in Atlantic Canada, St. John's based Pelorus VC has launched its third fund - Venture NL III. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador continues to be the lead limited partner with their $15 million commitment.  $30.3 million has been invested in NL-based companies through VNL I, VNL II, and related special purpose vehicles (SPVs). Pelorus VC has backed companies like CoLab, Spellbook, BreatheSuite, Mantle, SiftMed, Sparrow BioAcoustics and more.