Indigenous Tourism Awards Gala
About the Awards
The Indigenous Tourism Awards are presented by the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada and represent the best in industry; from outstanding businesses, sustainability, women and thought leadership in industry, the Indigenous Tourism Awards celebrate this past year’s excellence in tourism. Presented on the final night of the International Indigenous Tourism Conference, the Indigenous Tourism Awards will showcase the flourishing and exceptional indigenous tourism industry in Canada.
Nomination Criteria
Who is eligible to enter?
Awards are open to indigenous businesses that are ITAC members located in Canada.
When is the deadline to apply?
Nominations close on December 13, 2024
Is there a cost to apply?
No, there is no cost to apply or nominate a business/individual.
How are the awards judged?
Awards are judged by a panel of industry professionals.
How will finalists and winners be notified?
Finalists will be notified in January 2025 by email, and will also be announced in an email newsletter. Winners will be announced during the #2025IITC Awards Gala.
How do I submit an application?
Applications must be submitted online through Google Forms.
Can I still apply if I have won in the past?
Yes, you can still apply, however we ask that you also consider your fellow business owners, entrepreneurs and businesses when applying if you have won in the past and provide opportunities for others to also be recognized.
Supporting Documentation
Applications may require supporting documents, including, but not limited to:
- Letters of recommendation
- Documentation of positive of reviews and feedback online
Each award will outline any further requirements that may be required before you begin your applications.
Award Categories
All nominations will be submitted through Google Forms.
- Indigenous Culinary Tourism Award
- Extraordinary Female Entrepreneur Award
- Leading the Way in Sustainability Award
- The Original Original Industry Leadership Award
- Provincial or Territorial Association of the Year
- New Operator or Business that Launched a New Experience
- Exceptional Cultural Experience Award
- Outstanding Staff Person Award
- Indigenous Destination Development Award
- ITQ Best Enterprise Of The Year
Eligibility
- Canadian tourism business must be at least 51% Indigenous-owned/controlled
- Awards are open to ITAC members only, and in good standing
- Businesses can be nominated in multiple categories
- Businesses can self-nominate
- Applicants must have been accepting visitors in 2024 or earlier
- Photo or video assets submitted for the nominee may be used for in-house awards production, in press releases or newsletters and / or on ITAC online platforms including website and social media
- Awarding will take place at the #2025IITC