World’s largest Indigenous tourism conference returns to Winnipeg in 2027

WINNIPEG, MB on Treaty 1 territory  –  Winnipeg will once again showcase the richness of Indigenous cultures, traditions and tourism experiences on a global stage as host city of the 2027 International Indigenous Tourism Conference (IITC) — the largest event of its kind in the world.

The announcement was made Thursday evening at the 13th annual IITC in Edmonton, AB, where the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) revealed Winnipeg as the next host city.

The three-day event will attract national tourism leaders, First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities and representatives from global Indigenous tourism organizations to Winnipeg — reflecting our city’s ongoing commitment to reconciliation and elevating Indigenous voices.

“We’re thrilled to welcome the International Indigenous Tourism Conference back to Winnipeg in 2027, after proudly hosting it in 2023,” said Natalie Thiesen, Vice President of Tourism at Winnipeg Economic Development & Tourism.

“Indigenous tourism has a powerful impact on communities and economies, and it creates meaningful opportunities for cultural exchange and understanding. With the country’s largest urban Indigenous population, Winnipeg is uniquely positioned to grow and showcase Indigenous tourism experiences, and we’re committed to ensuring they remain at the forefront of how we promote our city to the world,” said Thiesen.

As a historic gathering place and a thriving hub for Indigenous tourism leadership and entrepreneurship, Winnipeg is a natural host for IITC and other high-profile First Nations, Inuit and Métis gatherings, such as the World Indigenous Business Forum this October.

The 2027 conference was secured through a collaborative effort between Winnipeg Economic Development & Tourism, Indigenous Tourism Manitoba, the Province of Manitoba, Travel Manitoba, the Province of Manitoba and the City of Winnipeg.

“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,” said Holly Spence, CEO of Indigenous Tourism 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.”

As Indigenous tourism remains one of the fastest-growing segments of the visitor economy, the return of IITC will support Winnipeg and Manitoba Indigenous tourism operators and businesses while adding to Winnipeg’s growing portfolio as a premier destination for global events.

“This is an incredible opportunity to highlight the growth of the Indigenous entrepreneurs working in every part of Manitoba since our last gathering here, offering incredible experiences for visitors rooted in connection, culture and heart,” said Angela Cassie, Chief Operating Officer at Travel Manitoba. “We are excited to welcome the world to Manitoba.”

The conference is projected to generate approximately $2.7 million in total event economic impact, further strengthening Winnipeg’s economy.

Additional details about the 2027 IITC will be announced in the coming months.

About Winnipeg Economic Development & Tourism
Winnipeg Economic Development & Tourism is the city’s lead economic development and tourism agency. Governed by a private-sector board and guided by the needs of local business and tourism communities, we drive inclusive, sustainable growth in and around Winnipeg by attracting investment, talent and visitors. Through our work, it helps make Winnipeg a more vibrant and prosperous place to live, work, invest and visit for the benefit of residents and businesses.

About Indigenous Tourism Manitoba
Indigenous Tourism Manitoba is the only organization in Manitoba that unites communities, Indigenous groups, and industry leaders to create authentic Indigenous tourism experiences. Their goal is to support Indigenous businesses and their communities, and they are committed to promoting and growing Indigenous tourism demonstrates excellence in all aspects of ITAC’s four pillars, leadership, partnership, development and marketing, helping build resilience in the industry.

About Travel Manitoba
Travel Manitoba is a Crown Corporation under provincial legislation that leads and stimulates sustainable tourism growth in Manitoba’s $1.89 billion tourism industry. In partnership with the tourism industry, the agency is responsible for tourism marketing, visitor information services, research and public information.

About the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada  
The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) is a national non-profit Indigenous tourism industry organization established in 2015. ITAC is the lead organization tasked with growing and promoting the Indigenous tourism industry across the country. Inspired by a vision for a thriving Indigenous tourism economy sharing authentic, memorable and enriching experiences, ITAC develops relationships with groups and regions with similar mandates to enable collective support, product development, promotion and marketing of authentic Indigenous tourism businesses in a respectful protocol.

About the International Indigenous Tourism Conference
The largest Indigenous tourism conference in the world, the annual IITC brings together delegates from the Canadian tourism industry, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, as well as representatives from global Indigenous tourism organizations for three days of inspiration and learning about Indigenous tourism issues and topics.

Media Contacts

Katie Bergman
Corporate Communications Specialist
Winnipeg Economic Development & Tourism
204-285-6724
[email protected]

Holly Spence
Chief Executive Officer
Indigenous Tourism Manitoba
[email protected]
204-619-595

Louise Waldman
Vice President of Communications and Strategic Engagement
Travel Manitoba
[email protected]
204-619-5953

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