Intrepid Travel has pledged financial support to Indigenous-led tourism businesses in Canada, alongside upping Indigenous experiences across its Canadian itineraries. Olivia Palamountain reports

Intrepid Travel has signed a five-year partnership agreement with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC), committing CA$500,000 (£260,000) over five years to support the growth and promotion of Indigenous tourism across Canada.

This figure sits alongside a minimum annual stipend of CA$50,000 (£27,000) into promoting local Indigenous tourism through media trips, advertising and influencers, in consultation with ITAC.

The adventure travel company will also increase the number of Indigenous-led experiences across its Canadian itineraries, co-develop community-led products and co-create new signature Indigenous-centred adventures.Christian Wolters, president of Canada at Intrepid Travel, says: "The vision is simple. Every traveller who visits Canada with Intrepid should leave with a deeper connection and understanding of Indigenous culture."

According to Destination Canada's 2024 Traveller Segmentation Program, more than 60% of highly engaged travellers are now seeking Indigenous-led experiences.

Tapping into ITAC's network of accredited Indigenous tourism experiences, each offering will be authentic, meaningful and designed to benefit the communities that host them.

By the end of 2026, 75% of Intrepid's Canadian tours will include at least one Indigenous experience, with a long-term goal of 100% inclusion across all itineraries.

Keith Henry, chief executive officer and president of ITAC, says: "Demand is higher than ever, yet Indigenous-led businesses continue to navigate challenges around limited funding and infrastructure. Partnerships like this create tangible opportunities and ensure communities gain direct economic and cultural benefits, whilst supporting our vision of Canada becoming a world leader in Indigenous tourism by 2030."

The announcement is part of Intrepid Travel's wider expansion plans in Canada. In 2026, the company will also open a new operational hub in Squamish, British Columbia, to boost local hiring in Canada and broaden the range of travel experiences offered nationwide.

Wolters adds: "For over 30 years, Intrepid Travel has used small-group adventures to empower communities around the world. Now, as we embark on our biggest expansion in Canada, we're excited to help travellers connect more deeply with Indigenous cultures here and ensure tourism creates meaningful benefits for communities."

As a certified B-Corp and world leader in responsible travel, Intrepid has long championed Indigenous and community-based tourism around the world. In 2026, the company will offer more than 100 experiences with Indigenous communities globally, reflecting a commitment to authentic, community-led tourism that has been at the core of Intrepid trips.