TIAO Event Set To Have An IMPACT
The Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO) is gearing up for IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism – ONTARIO: A Regional Event that will take place at Queen’s University Biosciences Complex in Kingston, Ontario from May 7 to May 9, 2023.
The inaugural in-person event will bring together thought-leaders, destinations, operators and industry experts from across Ontario and from around the globe who are committed to creating a more sustainable tourism industry.
Building upon the success of IMPACT Global Summit, which is held annually in Victoria in January and is co-founded by Destination Greater Victoria, Synergy Enterprises, Starrboard Enterprises, and Tartanbond Communications. IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism – ONTARIO will emphasize the importance of tourism in Ontario as an economic driver while acknowledging its significant environmental, social, and cultural impact on destinations.
The 1.5-day conference will feature a variety of programming highlights, including conversations on the advancements of renewable energy, regenerative tourism, natural asset management, international best-practice examples, and more. Through proven programming principles, collaborative knowledge sharing, and trusted resources, the event will showcase advancements in sustainability and regenerative tourism.
Chris Bloore, President & CEO of Tourism Industry Association of Ontario, said: “… TIAO is proud and excited to be hosting the first IMPACT Sustainability & Tourism Regional Event in Ontario. The tourism industry renowned for offering a variety of experiences where communities can engage in business, leisure, and rejuvenation. The responsibility for a sustainable tourism industry lies on our shoulders.”
Bloore continued: “We need to ensure that collectively as an industry, we are making small changes that will move us forward to protecting our resources. At the forefront of this initiative is guaranteeing that we protect, recognize, and learn about our Indigenous heritage, and preserve our natural resources for our future.”
Kevin Eshkawkogan, President & CEO of Indigenous Tourism Ontario said: “Indigenous Tourism Ontario is thrilled to partner with the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario on the inaugural IMPACT Regional Ontario Event. Authentic Indigenous cultural tourism is an industry sector that a growing number of tourists are interested in.”
Eshkawkogan noted that: “It is important for the Indigenous communities within Ontario to take control of their culture and ensure it is properly represented. ITO will support and promote businesses offering culturally authentic experiences and recognize them for contributing to their Indigenous heritage. As the focus of this event is on sustainable tourism, we appreciate the partnership, contribution of knowledge from our elders, and learning that we will experience at this event.”
IMPACT Regional Ontario is made possible through the generous support of its sponsors—Destination Ontario, Indigenous Tourism Ontario, GreenStep Solutions Inc., VIA Rail, Visit Kingston, Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, McCoy Bus Services, and OMCA (Ontario Motorcoach Association).
Go to www.tiaontario.ca/IMPACTregional for more.
