In 2017, Canadians welcomed a record of 20.8 million international visitors to our shores. The tourism industry is vibrant from coast to coast-to-coast, as one in 10 jobs in Canada is associated with the visitor economy. Investing in tourism in both big cities and small towns throughout Atlantic Canada is essential to growing this important economic sector for Canadians. By investing in our tourism sector, we attract new visitors, grow businesses and create new ones, generating economic growth.

“Canada is a leader in experiential tourism development. With our diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes, and vibrant cultural traditions found across the country, businesses continue to find innovative ways to promote authentic experiences to visitors and grow this sector. A strategic plan to build on Indigenous Tourism opportunities goes hand in hand with community development and sustainable, inclusive economic growth.”

• The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science, and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
  

“As a major employer in our rural areas with benefits that reach so many other businesses, the tourism industry is a key economic development engine for Prince Edward Island. Organizations like Central Coastal Tourism Partnership are leading the way to create new tourism opportunities, working closely with their members to build on the visitor experience.”

• The Honourable Wayne Easter, Member of Parliament for Malpeque
  

“The funding our organization is receiving from ACOA supports our mission to champion partnerships and empower growth; more specifically it will help tourism operators in the Central Coastal Region to grow their business offerings and earnings. Being able to conduct marketing activities, as well as provide training opportunities such as the Accelerated Market Readiness Program and the Experience Specialist Program positions operators to achieve success. In addition, the funding support for the development of a new 3 year strategic plan will position the Central Coastal Tourism Partnership as a strong and sustainable resource to PEI's tourism industry and to the Central Coastal Region in particular.”

• Derrick Hoare, President, Central Coastal Tourism Partnership Inc.

• Established in 2011, Central Coastal Tourism Partnership represents 100 tourism small and medium-sized businesses in rural PEI.
  

• Tourism is a vital industry in Prince Edward Island that provides 7,700 full time equivalent jobs for Islanders. It accounts for approximately $430 million in economic activity each year and 6.3 percent of GDP, the highest percentage of any Canadian province.
  

• In 2017 the industry in PEI surpassed one million overnight stays with visitations of 1,559,184 and revenues of $447.1 million.
  

Chris Brooks
Director of Communications
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-566-7569
chris.brooks@canada.ca

Peggy Miles
Central Coastal Tourism Partnership
902-963-3613
peggy@centralcoastalpei.com