The Government of Canada, through the Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED), has announced a substantial investment in six tourism projects in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region. This investment, part of the broader Tourism Relief Fund (TRF), aims to enhance the overall tourism experience in the region.
The CED has allocated over $1 million in financial support to these Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean projects. This level of funding reflects the government’s commitment to revitalizing the tourism sector, which has faced challenges due to the pandemic.
The goal is to support innovative initiatives that will attract more visitors to the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region.
“Through the tourism industry, we can showcase Canada’s attractions, culture, and diversity to visitors from around the world,” Minister of Tourism Soraya Martinez Ferrada said in a press release.
“The Government of Canada has always been very aware of the importance of tourism to the country and continues to be here for businesses and organizations in this sector to ensure they recover.”
The projects receiving funding through this announcement are diverse, each contributing to the region’s tourism appeal in unique ways. One project involves upgrading a tourist site with interactive technology and improved outdoor facilities to enhance the visitor experience. Another initiative aims to create a new tourist route around Lac Saint-Jean, designed to enrich the traveler’s experience and extend their stay in the region.
Among the beneficiaries are organizations crucial in promoting Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean tourism, including the Corporation du Musée du Saguenay–Lac‐Saint‐Jean, Destination Lac‐Saint‐Jean, and Aventure Plume Blanche. Support for these local organizations is key.
While not explicitly mentioned in the press release, the funded projects have indirect implications for the outdoor hospitality industry in the region.
Enhancements to tourist attractions and the development of new routes can benefit outdoor hospitality providers, such as campgrounds and RV parks, by increasing overall tourist traffic to Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean.
The Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region is home to several popular campgrounds that may stand to benefit from increased tourism. Dam-en-Terre is a four-season resort known for its natural beauty and activities. Au Jardin de Mon Père campground is a 5-star campground that provides amenities like electricity, laundry, and a convenience store. Meanwhile, Camping & Plage Belley offers over 300 sites along Lac Saint-Jean.
This Government of Canada investment underscores its recognition of tourism as a vital economic driver for regions like Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean.
The TRF, with its $500 million national budget, has supported numerous projects across Quebec, demonstrating the government’s commitment to a resilient and inclusive provincial tourism sector.
These investments are expected to reinvigorate the appeal of Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean as a tourist destination. While directly funding specific projects, the impacts are likely to have ripple effects benefiting various sectors, including outdoor hospitality, by attracting a broader range of visitors to the region.