New Tourism and Cultural Industries Funding
IQALUIT, Nunavut (September 28, 2011) – Peter Taptuna, Minister of Economic Development & Transportation, today announced $1.05 million of new funding over the next three years to enhance tourism opportunities linked to Nunavut’s arts, crafts and other cultural industries.
"During the community tourism consultations held earlier this year, Nunavummiut asked for support in the production, promotion and distribution of arts and crafts," said Minister Taptuna. "Communities recognize that tourists often want to purchase more arts and crafts. This new fund will help communities make that connection by investing in infrastructure, marketing, better cruise coordination, and community beautification."
The Community Tourism & Cultural Industries Program will provide funding for: the repair and upgrading of existing arts and culture infrastructure; new or expanded facilities linking cultural industries and tourism; the marketing of community arts and crafts and community-based tourism businesses; assisting communities to benefit from cruise ship visits; the promotion of a positive community image to enhance community pride; and decreasing litter in communities.
For the remainder of the 2011/12 fiscal year, the Community Tourism & Cultural Industries Program will invest $260,000 in projects by Nunavut organizations and municipalities. The department is budgeting $395,000 for each of the next two fiscal years.
With ᑕᒪᑦᑕ Tamapta, the Government of Nunavut committed to enhancing our recognition in Canada and the world, increasing support for culture and the arts, and supporting community-based sustainable economies through partnerships so that communities will become more economically active, productive and self-reliant. This program will help achieve these objectives.
To apply, download the application forms from www.edt.gov.nu.ca, call the department toll-free at 1 (888) 975-5999, contact your Community Economic Development Officer, or contact the regional Advisor, Arts & Traditional Economy.
###
Media contact:
Matthew Illaszewicz
Manager, Communications
Department of Economic Development & Transportation
(867) 975-7818