Supporting New Canadian Tourism Entrepreneurs: Investing in Canada's Rural and Remote Tourism Infrastructure

Canada’s tourism industry is experiencing a quiet transformation, driven by a fascinating convergence of two major trends. First, rural and remote tourism businesses are facing a generational divestment. Many original operators of campgrounds, cabin resorts, fishing lodges, and hunting camps are retiring, while their children and grandchildren often opt for different career paths. Second, new Canadians—eager to invest in and integrate into Canadian society—are stepping in to buy these businesses, drawn by the opportunity to own a piece of Canada’s breathtaking wilderness and contribute to its tourism economy.

This shift brings significant potential. New Canadians bring fresh perspectives, diverse cultural influences, and a strong desire to succeed. However, many face challenges due to a lack of experience in small business management, hospitality operations, and understanding of local tourism markets. Without support, these challenges can put their investments and the competitiveness of Canada’s rural and remote destinations at risk.

How can these new Canadian entrepreneurs overcome these hurdles and thrive in the tourism industry? Here are five actionable ideas to help them repoint their investments, improve their operations, and contribute to the vibrancy of Canada’s tourism industry.

1. Create Tailored Tourism Training Programs

New Canadians need access to training programs specifically designed for rural and remote tourism businesses. These programs should cover:

• Market Positioning: Understanding local, national, and international tourism markets, identifying target demographics, and crafting unique selling propositions.
• Operational Management: Best practices for running campgrounds, lodges, and other rural businesses, including maintenance, staffing, and sustainability.
• Customer Service Excellence: Building relationships with tourists through cultural sensitivity, clear communication, and memorable guest experiences.
• Physical Design and Presentation: Education and ideas on affordable capital improvements, FF&E and operating supplies and equipment that deliver a sense of place and ensure excellence in guest experience.
• Financial Management: Budgeting, forecasting, and understanding seasonal revenue cycles.
• Digital Marketing and Branding: Using social media, SEO, and other digital tools to attract and retain guests.

Organizations like industry associations, local tourism boards, and community colleges could collaborate to offer workshops, online courses, and mentorship opportunities. Tailored programs ensure these entrepreneurs gain the knowledge needed to thrive.

2. Foster Mentorship and Peer-to-Peer Networking

Seasoned operators who are retiring or downsizing possess invaluable knowledge about the unique challenges of rural tourism. Pairing them with new Canadian business owners through structured mentorship programs could bridge the knowledge gap. Mentors could provide insights on:

• Building long-term guest relationships.
• Navigating regulatory requirements in rural areas.
• Balancing operational demands with personal well-being.

These relationships could be facilitated by tourism associations or local chambers of commerce, fostering a collaborative spirit and helping sustain the legacy of these businesses.

3. Develop Accessible Capital and Investment Support

Many rural tourism businesses require significant capital for infrastructure upgrades, sustainability initiatives, and marketing efforts. New Canadian entrepreneurs often struggle to secure funding due to limited credit history or knowledge of available resources.

Governments and financial institutions could address this by creating grants, low-interest loans, or investment programs tailored for rural tourism entrepreneurs. Additionally, offering workshops on grant writing and financial planning could help these business owners better access available resources.

4. Build Networks Through Regional Tourism Clusters

Encouraging new Canadian entrepreneurs to participate in regional tourism clusters can help them understand local tourism ecosystems and collaborate with neighboring businesses. Clusters foster synergies through:

• Shared Marketing Initiatives: Pooling resources to promote the destination collectively.
• Cross-Promotion: Partnering with complementary businesses to offer bundled experiences.
• Knowledge Sharing: Exchanging insights about local trends, guest expectations, and operational challenges.

Regional tourism boards or economic development organizations could facilitate these clusters, creating a sense of community and shared purpose.

5. Introduce Cultural Competency Training for Both Sides

Tourists in rural and remote Canada often have expectations shaped by the legacy of the previous operators. Meanwhile, new Canadians may bring cultural norms and business practices that differ from those expectations. To bridge this gap, two-way cultural competency training can be invaluable:

• For Entrepreneurs: Teaching new Canadians about the cultural preferences, leisure habits, and expectations of Canadian and international tourists.
• For Communities: Educating local communities and tourism stakeholders about the perspectives and contributions of new Canadians.

This mutual understanding can enhance guest experiences, foster community support, and create an inclusive atmosphere that benefits everyone.

The Road Ahead: A Vibrant Future for Rural Tourism

Supporting new Canadian entrepreneurs in rural and remote tourism is not just about preserving businesses—it’s about revitalizing communities and enriching Canada’s tourism landscape. By investing in training, mentorship, financial support, and collaboration, we can ensure that these entrepreneurs thrive while maintaining the vibrancy and competitiveness of rural destinations.

Canada’s wilderness tourism offers unique opportunities for connection, adventure, and cultural exchange. As new Canadians step into this industry, their success will bring fresh energy to these remote corners of the country, contributing to a brighter and more inclusive future for Canadian tourism. Together, we can build a robust and dynamic rural tourism sector that benefits operators, visitors, and communities alike.