ITAC celebrates achievements in Indigenous tourism at IITC Awards

The 13th annual International Indigenous Tourism Conference wrapped up in Edmonton recently as the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC), alongside presenting partner WestJet, announced the winners of the 2026 Indigenous Tourism Awards and revealed next year’s host city, Winnipeg, Manitoba.

The annual awards gala recognizes the achievements of national Indigenous tourism operators from across Canada, highlighting outstanding businesses, sustainability, women’s leadership, and thought leadership.

These awards celebrate excellence and national Indigenous operators who are at the top of their industry and are providing a platform to help elevate and promote Indigenous culture, heritage and economic development.

Keith Henry, president and CEO of ITAC, said: “This year’s winners highlight the creativity, resilience, and cultural richness that make Indigenous tourism across Canada truly exceptional.”

And Henry continued: “Their dedication to authenticity, sustainability and positive community impact demonstrates leadership and innovation. All of our winners and nominees have achieved so much in the last year, and I look forward to celebrating their work as they continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations.”

In 2027, IITC will return to Winnipeg where attendees can look forward to more engaging sessions, cultural experiences and opportunities to strengthen the future of Indigenous tourism. With its rich Indigenous heritage and vibrant tourism offerings, Winnipeg provides a great setting to connect industry leaders and partners from around the globe.

Holly Spence, CEO of Indigenous Tourism Manitoba, said: “We are thrilled to welcome the next International Indigenous Tourism Conference to Winnipeg, Manitoba. Under the theme ‘Heart of Turtle Island’, this conference will celebrate the growth and resilience of Indigenous tourism from coast to coast to coast.” Spence continued: “Indigenous Tourism Manitoba is proud to host this signature event in partnership with Winnipeg Economic Development & Tourism and Travel Manitoba, where stories, culture, and leadership come together to inspire collaboration and strengthen Indigenous communities.”

The winners of the 2026 Indigenous Tourism Awards include:

• Exceptional Cultural Experience Award — Ungava Polar Eco-Tours (QC)
• Extraordinary Female Entrepreneur Award presented by RBC — Jen Shears – Natural Boutique / Gros Morne Wildlife Museum / Stay in Gros Morne (NL)
• Indigenous Culinary Tourism Award — Scott Iserhoff – Bernadette’s (Pei Pei Chei Ow) (AB)
• Indigenous Destination Development Award — Enoch Tourism (AB)
• Alberta Provincial Indigenous Tourism Leadership Award — Métis Crossing (AB)
• Leading the Way in Sustainability Award — Spirit Bear Lodge (BC)
• New Operator or Business that Launched a New Experience — Dakota Dunes Resort (SK)
• Outstanding Staff Person Award — Thomas Wamiss Jr. – Coastal Rainforest Safaris (BC)
• Provincial or Territorial Association of the Year — Indigenous Tourism Manitoba
• The Original Original Industry Leadership Award — Under the Stump (NL)
• Destination Original Indigenous Tourism International Award — Indigenous Tourism Network of Mexico (RITA – Red Indígena de Turismo de México).

Go to www.IndigenousTourismConference.com .