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As we head into the fall, I’m excited to turn our attention to one of the most important events on the tourism calendar: the Tourism Congress happening December 3-5, 2024, in Vancouver, BC. This annual gathering is a key opportunity for us to come together as an industry to collaborate, learn, and strengthen our collective voice.
The Tourism Congress is not just another event; it’s where our industry leaders, advocates, and stakeholders converge to tackle the most pressing issues facing tourism in Canada today. This year’s agenda is packed with sessions that will provide valuable insights into workforce development, sustainability, innovation, and policy shifts. By attending, you’re not just gaining knowledge—you’re also helping shape the future of Canadian tourism.
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We are excited to announce that the new TIAC Proud Member and Proud Associate Member logos are now available for all our esteemed members! This logo represents your commitment to the Canadian tourism industry and your affiliation with the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC).
We encourage you to proudly display this logo on your website, social media, marketing materials, and other platforms where you promote your business. By doing so, you’ll not only showcase your dedication to excellence in the tourism sector but also strengthen our collective identity as industry leaders.
To download the logo, please visit the Member Benefits page on the TIAC website upon signing in. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact us at membership@tiac-aitc.ca.
Thank you for being a valued member of TIAC.
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We're taking our message to the Hill!
The Tourism Industry Association of Canada will host Hill Days on October 7–9, 2024. During this event, we'll lead a series of advocacy meetings with Parliamentarians and federal officials to highlight the challenges facing the tourism industry and advocate for policies to help rebuild the visitor economy. And be sure to attend the Hill Days Reception, taking place October 8 in Ottawa.
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Join us for an unforgettable gathering of tourism leaders, stakeholders, and innovators from across Canada
December 3-5, 2024
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Join us in beautiful Vancouver for an immersive conference experience that brings together tourism leaders, stakeholders, and innovators from across Canada and beyond. Get ready to share insights, explore new ideas, and celebrate our industry's resilience and creativity. We are thrilled the Tourism Congress is hitting the road this year. | | |
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Jon Montgomery Announced As This Year’s Congress Keynote Speaker
Join Jon Montgomery, Gold Medal Olympian and Host of The Amazing Race Canada, as he takes us on an inspiring journey through Canada's vibrant tourism industry. In this captivating session, Jon will share his unique perspective on exploring and appreciating the value and gifts of Canada’s tourism landscape. Hear firsthand about the incredible destinations he has visited, the diverse people and cultures he has encountered, and the unforgettable experiences that have fuelled his pride in being Canadian.
Read More
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December 3: Industry Workshop Day
This year, we’re thinking outside the box and enhancing our educational component with an exciting addition to our programming: The Tourism Congress Workshop Day on Tuesday, December 3. This one-day program will feature 3-hour sessions in the morning, a networking luncheon, and 3-hour sessions repeated in the afternoon. Some of the workshops will include...
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*This is a preliminary program and is subject to change. Please check our website for updates. | |
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We're almost SOLD OUT! Plan your stay!
Stay in the heart of the action at Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre, with special rates starting at $249 for double occupancy, available until October 31, 2024, or until sold out. A very limited number of rooms are still available, so RESERVE YOUR ROOM TODAY!
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A Winter Wonderland Beneath the Waves: Join us at the #TIACCongress2024 Opening Reception at the Vancouver Aquarium!
We’re thrilled to invite you to the opening reception of Tourism Congress 2024 on Wednesday December 4, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Vancouver Aquarium! Enjoy an evening of engaging networking, stunning aquatic exhibits, delectable food stations, and unforgettable moments. Prepare for a winter wonderland beneath the waves — a perfect way to kick off to TIAC's Congress and a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow delegates. Save the date; we can’t wait to see you there!
Please note that registration for Congress is required to attend the Welcome Reception. If you're interested in joining us for the evening but can't attend the entire Congress, or if you’d like to bring your entire team to the reception, please visit our website to purchase tickets for the Welcome Reception separately.
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Elevate your brand!
Take your brand to the forefront of Canada’s tourism industry by becoming a Sponsor. Tailored packages are available to help you attain your specific goals.
Contact Ed Byers at sponsorship@tiac-aitc.ca for more information.
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Canadian Tourism Awards
TIAC’s Canadian Tourism Awards recognizes the best and brightest in Canada’s tourism industry, from outstanding teams and organizations to individual luminaries who surpass all expectations. It presents an opportunity for those who exemplify a commitment to providing nothing short of exceptional tourism experiences from coast to coast to coast to be celebrated by their peers. A very limited number of tickets are available this year, so make sure to add your ticket to your congress registration or purchase it separately to attend this meaningful event on December 5, 2024!
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Thank You!
Nominations closed September 12. The dust has settled and we can't express just how thrilled we are with the response! With over 170 submissions, we experienced one of our best nomination periods to date. You truly care about Canadian tourism and love to sing the praises of all those who make it the dynamic industry it is.
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Award Categories and Sponsors | |
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BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD
presented by
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INDIGENOUS TOURISM AWARD
presented by
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SUSTAINABLE TOURISM AWARD
presented by
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BUSINESS EVENT OF THE YEAR AWARD
presented by
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TOURISM EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR AWARD
presented by
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TOURISM EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR AWARD | |
SMALL OR MEDIUM-SIZED BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD | |
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INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR AWARD
presented by
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TRAVEL MEDIA PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR AWARD | |
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CULINARY TOURISM EXPERIENCE AWARD
presented by
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LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD | |
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UNDER-30 TOURISM TRAILBLAZER AWARD
presented by
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Future Leaders – Student Contest presented by Air Canada and TIAC
Calling all Travel/Tourism Students! Win a Trip to the 2024 Tourism Congress!
Air Canada, in partnership with the Tourism Industry Association of Canada, invites applications for the Air Canada Future Tourism Leaders Contest. We seek Canadian students who have made significant contributions to Canada’s vibrant and professional tourism industry.
Up to four (4) students will receive one (1) complimentary registration to TIAC’s Tourism Congress (December 4 & 5), two (2) nights of hotel accommodations at the official Congress hotel (check-in: Wednesday, December 4 / check out: Friday, December 6), and round-trip airfare to Congress covered by Air Canada (Economy Class).
During the Tourism Congress, winners will be presented with special recognition for their achievements. Eligible students must reside in Canada and be enrolled full-time at an accredited Canadian college or university in a Travel/Tourism/Hospitality or related program. Proof of enrolment is required.
Submission deadline: October 9, 2024.
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We are pleased to announce that the Tourism Industry Association of New Brunswick's 2024 Tourism Summit & Awards Gala will be held November 12–14 at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Saint John. And TIAC will be there! Join us as we host the town hall and a roundtable discussion on “Collaborative Solutions for Overcoming Tourism Industry Challenges” with representatives from the day’s morning sessions and additional experts. | | |
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Not a member of TIAC?
Join a vibrant community committed to elevating Canadian tourism on the global stage. By supporting TIAC, you position yourself at the forefront of change, innovation, and growth. Together, we’re not just imagining the future of Canadian tourism—we’re actively shaping it.
What We Do
For more information about the TIAC membership, please contact membership@tiac-aitc.ca
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New and Renewed Member Recognition
We are delighted to extend a warm welcome to all the new and renewed members of the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC):
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NEW FULL MEMBERS:
Aseasky International Inc.
Clicktripz
Le Pays de la Sagouine
NEW ASSOCIATE MEMBERS:
CANNABIS XPRESS
Chasing Poutine/Moi, mes souliers
Freelance Media
Great Lakes Schooner Company Limited
Roland Bast Photo
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We're also incredibly grateful to the 47 organizations who chose to renew their Regular or Associate membership in August, and we want to extend our heartfelt thanks for their continued support.
Not a member? Click here to become one!
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Attention all members! We want to hear your story. Share your experiences, challenges, and triumphs. By submitting your story, you'll inspire others, gain recognition, and help shape the future of our community. Don't miss this opportunity to make a difference and leave a lasting impact. | |
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On September 17, 2024, TIAC hosted an engaging "Ask an Expert" webinar, Harnessing Research to Elevate Your Tourism Strategy. Participants gained valuable insights on the essential role research plays in driving success, whether for destination marketing organizations or individual tourism operators. Key takeaways included identifying crucial data points, using research to support industry initiatives, and integrating research into strategic planning. This session empowered attendees to sharpen their tourism strategies with practical, research-driven approaches. Special thanks to John C. Dunn of Floor13, Andreas Weissenborn of Destinations International, and Marney St John of Travel Alberta for providing insightful information!
If you or your colleague missed this or any past webinar, the recording can be accessed in the Member Portal of the TIAC website.
THIS MONTH’S WEBINAR:
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Join us on October 30, 2024, for the second instalment of the Working Together – Parks Canada Webinar Series: Partnering with Parks Canada Toward Tourism Growth. | |
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This dynamic session will offer invaluable insights from Parks Canada experts on successful collaborations, tips for formalizing partnerships, and crafting compelling proposals. Equip yourself with the tools and strategies to drive sustainable tourism growth through effective partnerships with Parks Canada.
Don’t miss this opportunity to unlock new potential for your business!
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MEMBERS! Are you an expert in your field and would like to share a topic of interest to your fellow members? Reach out to Julie Gauvreau. | |
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READI at Tourism Congress
Join us for these informative pre-congress workshops that will introduce three of the upcoming READIness programs that will be available to the industry:
Intro to Export READI
A three-hour workshop on how to extend your market reach beyond traditional clients to gain access to new and larger international tourism markets. This workshop will introduce you to the numerous benefits of working with Travel Trade.
Intro to Culinary & Agritourism READI
A hands-on three-hour delicious-food storytelling workshop on the food tourist, what they want, and how the heck we capture their attention.
Intro to Sustainable & Regenerative READI
An experiential, hands-on workshop to advance sustainability in your operations. Led by GreenStep Solutions, this three-hour session introduces participants to essential concepts and benefits of integrating a sustainability strategy into their business.
While these workshops are intro sessions, once fully accredited, businesses can be included on TIAC's national tourism registry. The READI Stamp accreditation program, administered by TIAC, signifies a commitment to excellence within the tourism sector.
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Indigenous Tourism Destination Fund
The Indigenous Tourism Destination Fund (ITDF) provides businesses and individuals an opportunity to realize reconciliation in Canada through their support of the Indigenous tourism industry. Governed by the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC), the ITDF is used to invest in infrastructure, human resources and development and marketing projects benefiting communities across the country. In this, the month of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we encourage you to learn more about this worthy cause and make a contribution that will benefit community and entrepreneurship for First Nations, Métis and Inuit-owned businesses.
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Join us in Montreal, Quebec, to experience the rich tapestry of Indigenous tourism. IITC, the largest of its kind, is a gathering of industry professionals, community leaders, entrepreneurs and partners dedicated to promoting and celebrating Indigenous language, culture, and identities. It will be held February 25–27, 2025. | |
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Government of Canada Launches Consultation on Strengthening the Canadian Workforce
On August 6, Randy Boissonnault, the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, launched a consultation on the future of Canadian workforce and its development. The goal of the consultations is to gather diverse perspectives on the current labour market challenges, skills development, and lifelong learning and ideas on how to build a productive and inclusive workforce. These consultations will inform the discussion during the fall summit on how Canada can develop a 21st-century workforce that is worker-centric and future-oriented.
You can participate online until September 30. To learn more about these consultations and participate, click here.
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Urban Economy Forum Partners With City of Kitchener to Host Conference on Sustainable Tourism
The 6th Urban Economy Forum is taking place on Sept 25–27, 2024. This year, the city of Toronto and the city of Kitchener are collaborating to host the conference, which will explore the timely topic of "Financing Sustainable Tourism, Advancing Quality of Life.” The event will examine how well-managed tourism can drive sustainable economic growth while preserving natural resources, biodiversity, cultural heritage, and the enhancement of quality of life.
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The Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) expresses its most profound gratitude to its Industry Patrons for their significant financial investment and support of the association. TIAC's Industry Patrons are leading companies who have been instrumental in creating positive change, fostering international tourism growth, and advancing Canada's travel and tourism portfolio.
To become an TIAC Industry Patron contact Jenn Taylor, VP Business Development and Member Relations at 902-698-0984 or Mitch Prudhomme, Director Business Development at 613-864-3079.
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Preferred Partners
The Tourism Industry Association of Canada has partnered with a number of leading national suppliers to provide the highest quality services to our members at fantastic rates.
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