Charlottetown – Tourism and small businesses are crucial to growing sustainable local economies in Atlantic Canada. In Prince Edward Island, where strong visitor numbers are once again bringing new opportunities for employment to communities across the province, strategic investments are key to ensuring long-term benefits reach all Islanders. The Government of Canada is committed to supporting a diverse and resilient economy by building on the strengths of the region.
Building a sustainable industry with targeted infrastructure and programming
Darrell Samson, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA, announced total contributions of $2,417,942 for eight projects that will advance Prince Edward Island’s tourism sector and provide essential supports for small business development. This announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA.
Investments announced today will help the Tourism Association of Prince Edward Island (TIAPEI), Meetings & Conventions PEI, the PEI Business Women’s Association, and LearnSphere Canada Inc. to provide vital programming, marketing, and supports for local operators and entrepreneurs. Key infrastructure upgrades to the historic Rodd Charlottetown property and the Port of Charlottetown will welcome more visitors with improved experiences, and the popular Anne of Green Gables Chocolates Inc. will modernize processes to keep up with demand.
For further details on the projects, please refer to the backgrounder. This announcement demonstrates the Government of Canada’s dedication to building a sustainable and distinct tourism sector in Atlantic Canada, furthering the region’s reputation as as a world-class destination.
“ACOA is helping PEI businesses grow, attract visitors, and create jobs—whether it’s through better marketing or upgrades. It’s all about stronger communities.” – Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA
Businesses, entrepreneurs and organizations in southern Ontario are working every day to create jobs and opportunities for Canadians. That is why the Government of Canada is providing support and services to these companies so that they can reach their potential, increase their competitiveness and unlock new possibilities for growth.
Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), announced a $375,000 investment for the Italian Chamber of Commerce of Ontario (ICCO) to deliver the CAMERA program to foster business development and growth, as well as support foreign direct investment opportunities in Canada.
Through the CAMERA program, the ICCO will assist over 30 businesses at various stages of entry and expansion, offering programming related to business planning, networking and product testing for the Canadian market. The CAMERA program will support entrepreneurs as they scale-up, grow their ideas, and set down roots for long-term economic growth in Canada.
The Government of Canada is supporting organizations, businesses and entrepreneurs across southern Ontario that are developing new products and solutions to enhance the Canadian economy for generations to come.
“Southern Ontario is home to countless community leaders and institutions that are working every day to grow our economy. We are pleased to support businesses and organizations, like the Italian Chamber of Commerce of Ontario, that are contributing to southern Ontario’s growth, and will help actualize the region’s potential and the possibilities that lie ahead.” – Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario