There’s about to be three more Indigenous tourism experiences available in the province – and it’s thanks to a unique mentorship program called Skode.
Three finalists who made winning pitches for the Indigenous Tourism Skode Program will each be awarded a $5,000 non-repayable financial contribution, mentorship and additional partner support to advance their new Indigenous tourism ideas to the next level.
The Skode Program is an initiative to spark new Indigenous tourism ideas and experiences that authentically represent, celebrate and promote Indigenous culture, heritage, language, cuisine and communities in Ontario. In Anishinaabemowin, Skode means fire! Indigenous entrepreneurs, non-profits and community groups were encouraged to apply and share the fire within their hearts.
Twelve applications were submitted from across Ontario with the top five applicants being invited to present their new tourism idea at a virtual Finalists’ Pitch Session held on March 29th. A judges panel of Indigenous tourism leaders and partners selected the three winning applicants.
The 2022 Indigenous Tourism Skode Program winners are:
Caley Patrick Doran – Take-A-Hike Trail Guide
Kevin Lamarr, Mandi Montour & Sarah Yankoo – INDIGIMaps
Norm Dokis – Camp Petawachuan
“We are extremely proud of this year’s 2022 Skode Winners. ITO couldn’t be more impressed with the outstanding ideas and innovative spirit shown by this year’s winners. We can’t wait to be a part of their exciting journey” said Kevin Eshkawkogan, President & CEO of Indigenous Tourism Ontario.
The Skode Program is a collaboration between Indigenous Tourism Ontario and the Tourism Innovation Lab, and made possible with support from the Government of Canada, Government of Ontario, and TD Bank Group. This is the second time the program has been offered in Ontario.
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT: TOURISMINNOVATION.CA/ITO
