Elevating experiences at Ski Ben Eoin

From: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

News release

Not-for-profit ski hill undergoes upgrades to help expand operating season

September 13, 2024 · Ben Eoin, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

Winter tourism is an important economic driver for many communities in Atlantic Canada, attracting visitors during the off-season, and providing year-round revenue and employment. The Government of Canada is investing to help further establish Cape Breton as a four-season tourism destination.

On the fast track to an extended season

Today, Mike Kelloway, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and Member of Parliament for Cape Breton—Canso, announced a non-repayable contribution of $300,000 to Ski Ben Eoin for much needed infrastructure improvements. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA.

An upgraded snow making system will be more energy efficient and capable of making snow at warmer winter temperatures, helping the business adapt to the effects of climate change and extend its season further into the fall and spring. LED trail lighting will be installed for nighttime use and main components of its chair lift will be replaced.

Todays’ announcement demonstrate’s the Government of Canada’s commitment to enhancing tourism offerings and improving the quality of life for residents through sustainable infrastructure enhancements.

Quotes

“Winter tourism in Cape Breton is growing, and investments like this one at Ski Ben Eoin are helping to extend the season even further, bringing more visitors and business to this special part of the province.”

-   The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA

“For decades, Ski Ben Eoin has been a place for families to enjoy the outdoors, and where visitors from far and wide discover the beauty of Cape Breton. With this investment, we can help lengthen the seasonal enjoyment of the hill as a community gathering place that benefits everyone from business owners to weekend adventurers.”

-  Mike Kelloway, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and Member of Parliament for Cape Breton—Canso

“Ski Ben Eoin is a beloved destination for residents and visitors alike. This investment ensures that we can continue to offer world-class experiences throughout the year, bringing more opportunities for winter tourism, economic growth, and community connection. Cape Breton Regional Municipality is proud to support such an important asset to our region's outdoor recreation and tourism landscape."

- Amanda McDougall-Merrill, Mayor of Cape Breton Regional Municipality

“This project will address three major needs for Ski Ben Eoin: snowmaking, lift operations and nighttime lighting. The impacts of global warming have reduced our season, and these improvements will help generate more ski days, lower costs and reduce our environmental impact.”

- Robert MacNeill, President of the Cape Breton Ski Club

Quick facts

  • The Cape Breton Ski Club (CBSC), known as Ski Ben Eoin, has been in operation since 1969. Ski Ben Eoin offers 11 downhill trails, a snowboard park, a snow school, adaptive skier and ski racing programs, 12 km of cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails. 

  • Ski Ben Eoin is the only not-for-profit ski operation with a volunteer Board of Directors in Nova Scotia.

  • The funding announced today is provided through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund (ICF).

  • The Province of Nova Scotia, through Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage, provided $125,000 for this project.

  • The Cape Breton Regional Municipality provided $50,000 for this project.

Contacts

Connor Burton
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Connor.Burton@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Lori Selig
Communications Manager
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Lori.Selig@acoa-apeca.gc.ca  
902-266-7477

Robert MacNeill
President
Cape Breton Ski Club
902-595-0811
GreatHax@gmail.com

Stay connected

Follow ACOA on Facebook, X, LinkedIn and Instagram.

Page details

Date modified: