Carey Perkins, a Kanienʼkehá:ka from Akwesasne, successfully applied for a grant of $25,000 in January 2025 to support her business, Niio Perkins Designs, known for its raised beadwork jewelry. However, more than a year later, she has yet to receive the funds, leaving her in a challenging financial situation.
Perkins is just one of many small business owners who were expecting financial assistance from the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) but have not seen any support materialize. The delay in funding has had severe consequences for Perkins, leading to issues like falling behind on insurance payments for her studio space and eventually having to vacate the premises in August 2025.
ITAC’s primary aim is to promote and advance authentic Indigenous tourism throughout Canada by focusing on development, marketing, leadership, and partnerships, as outlined in its 2023-24 annual report. In early 2025, ITAC, through the Indigenous Tourism Fund’s Micro and Small Business Stream (MSBS), distributed approximately $3.3 million in federal funding to 136 Indigenous tourism businesses.
Following concerns raised by affected individuals like Perkins, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada has acknowledged the situation and stated its commitment to resolving any outstanding issues regarding fund disbursement. ITAC President and CEO Keith Henry has also acknowledged that some businesses are still awaiting payment under the MSBS program but assured that efforts are being made to settle all outstanding dues.
In a distressing turn of events, some business owners, like Aïcha Smith-Belghaba, have faced significant setbacks after being approved for an MSBS grant but not receiving the promised funds. Smith-Belghaba, who operates Esha’s Eats providing catering and Indigenous culinary experiences, had plans for business expansion and community involvement that have been put on hold due to the funding delay.
Similarly, concerns have been raised regarding late payments to service providers following an Indigenous tourism conference hosted by ITAC in Edmonton. Nathan Rainy Chief, executive director of 49 Dzine, expressed disappointment over delayed payments, emphasizing the importance of honoring Indigenous protocols and ensuring timely compensation for services rendered.
Despite the challenges faced by ITAC in meeting financial obligations, the organization remains hopeful for future funding opportunities. ITAC is anticipating substantial support from a U.K.-based charity, the Passion Project Foundation, which has pledged significant financial assistance. However, until the funds materialize, ITAC has implemented cost-saving measures, including staff layoffs and reduced operational activities, to navigate the current financial constraints.