Wednesday, February 12th, 2025
Significant Government of Canada support will help build new accommodations, enhance tourist experiences, improve accessibility.
February 11, 2025 · Judique, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
Tourism is vital to Atlantic Canada’s economy, driving growth, creating jobs and strengthening communities. To help showcase the region’s beauty and culture to the world and attract more visitors, the Government of Canada is investing in eight projects in Cape Breton.
Today, the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA, announced total contributions of $4,520,403 to develop and enhance tourism products in Cape Breton. Minister Hutchings was joined by Mike Kelloway, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and Member of Parliament for Cape Breton-Canso.
The funding will help Cabot Cape Breton build a new facility with resort amenities at Cabot Cliffs. Sidanna Retreat, Marble Mountain Estates, and Love Life Lodging will build new all-season accommodations. Village of Baddeck, Celtic Music Interpretive Centre Society, North Highlands Nordic Ski Club, and Theatre Baddeck Society will enhance assets including cross-country ski trails and Baddeck’s waterfront boardwalk, improve accessibility, and add new interactive experiences. These projects will encourage people to visit during the shoulder and winter seasons, stay longer and explore more, boosting year-round tourism.
For more information on the companies and projects, please see the related backgrounder.
The Government of Canada is committed to helping Atlantic Canadian tourism operators develop fresh approaches, improve the products they offer visitors, and grow their businesses, while creating meaningful jobs and world-class experiences that will resonate with residents and visitors alike.
Quotes
“People come to Cape Breton from around the world for its incredible hospitality, great music, and beautiful scenery. Your federal government is helping tourism businesses make their home even more welcoming and accessible year-round. This means more people exploring our towns, enjoying local food, and embracing outdoor adventures – no matter the season.”
–The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA
“Cape Breton is a destination unlike any other. From breathtaking coastal hikes to lively festivals and warm hospitality, visitors are creating unforgettable memories. Thanks to the dedication of passionate tourism operators and the support announced today, we’re opening our doors wider than ever to help local businesses expand and improve experiences that showcase the Island’s charm.”
– Jaime Battiste, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Member of Parliament for Sydney – Victoria
“There’s no better place to make memories than Cape Breton, with our proud cultural heritage, superb outdoor activities and friendly people. We’re creating new year-round experiences, enhancing existing offerings, improving accessiblity, and adding exceptional accommodations to encourage even more people to visit and enjoy our Island.”
– Mike Kelloway, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans and Member of Parliament for Cape Breton – Canso
Quick facts
- Tourism is a key driver of Atlantic Canada’s economy, supporting more than 7,800 businesses in tourism-dependent industries and employing over 111,000 workers in communities across the region.
- Cape Breton Island has been ranked the #1 Island in North America by Condé Nast Traveler readers as well as the #1 Island in Canada for five years by Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards.
- ACOA’s investments announced today are delivered through the Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) and the Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program.o The Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) builds on the strengths of communities and provides the tools needed to identify opportunities for sustainable economic growth.o The Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program supports projects that promote sustainable community economic development, enhance business development and growth, and facilitate innovation.
-via Government of Canada
