Carey Perkins, a Kanienʼkehá:ka from Akwesasne, is the owner of Niio Perkins Designs, specializing in raised beadwork jewelry. Despite being approved for a $25,000 grant in January 2025 to cover studio space and overhead expenses, she has not yet received the funds. Perkins is one of many small business owners awaiting funding from the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC).
Perkins expressed her frustration, stating that the delay in funding has caused significant challenges for her business. Due to the lack of financial support, she fell behind on her insurance payments and eventually had to vacate her studio space in August 2025. The ITAC, which aims to promote and advance authentic Indigenous tourism in Canada, awarded $3.3 million in federal funding to 136 Indigenous tourism businesses through the Micro and Small Business Stream (MSBS) in early 2025.
Keith Henry, the President and CEO of ITAC, acknowledged that some recipients are still awaiting payments from the MSBS program. He mentioned that while 90% of the projects approved have been paid, approximately 10% of the projects are still outstanding. ITAC has been exploring various revenue options to fulfill its financial obligations.
Similarly, Aïcha Smith-Belghaba, a Kanienʼkehá:ka and Algerian from Six Nations of the Grand River, also approved for a $25,000 MSBS grant in January 2025, has not received the funding. She runs Esha’s Eats, a business offering catering and Indigenous culinary experiences. The delay in funding has forced her to scale back her business operations, impacting her finances and mental well-being.
Furthermore, Indigenous businesses have reported delayed payments following an Indigenous tourism conference hosted by ITAC in Edmonton. Nathan Rainy Chief, the executive director of 49 Dzine, highlighted the challenges faced by businesses awaiting payment for services provided at the conference. Despite efforts to address the issue, late payments have caused financial strain and disrupted business operations.
ITAC’s financial challenges have also affected its ability to meet obligations promptly. Keith Henry mentioned that despite the organization’s financial constraints, they continue to advocate for Indigenous tourism in Canada. The organization is awaiting major funding from a U.K.-based charity, the Passion Project Foundation, to stabilize its operations and fulfill its commitments.
In conclusion, the delays in funding from ITAC have had a significant impact on Indigenous businesses, causing financial hardships and operational disruptions. The organization is working to address these challenges and secure the necessary funding to support Indigenous tourism initiatives.