The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) has joined more than 100 tourism industry leaders in signing an open letter to Prime Minister Mark Carney urging the federal government to renew the International Convention Attraction Fund (ICAF).
The letter, coordinated by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada, Hotel Association of Canada and Meetings Mean Business Canada, calls on the government to commit $10 million annually for four years to continue the program, which was not renewed in Budget 2025 and is set to expire in March 2026.
Since its launch, ICAF has committed $30.5 million to help Canadian cities compete for international conferences and business events. According to Destination Canada, the fund has secured 87 events projected to generate $649.8 million in direct economic impact and $44.8 million in federal tax revenue—far exceeding the program’s original projection of $174 million.
Keith Henry, President and CEO of ITAC stated, “The International Convention Attraction Fund is a proven investment that delivers strong returns while creating opportunities for Indigenous tourism businesses to showcase their offerings to global audiences. ITAC is proud to stand with our industry partners in calling for its renewal.”
Without ICAF, Canadian cities will be unable to compete with international destinations that offer substantial financial support to attract major conferences and events. The letter emphasizes that international conferences are currently being planned for 2028, 2029 and beyond, making timely renewal essential.