OTTAWA, ON, September 5, 2014 - Today the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) and the Aboriginal Tourism Association of Canada (ATAC) are pleased to announce a new partnership to advance Aboriginal cultural tourism in Canada. Under a new Memorandum of Understanding, ATAC and TIAC will work collaboratively to produce industry research and recognize excellence in Aboriginal cultural tourism in through the creation of the 2014 National Aboriginal Cultural Tourism Award which will be presented as part of the Canadian Tourism Awards Gala held at the Westin Hotel Ottawa on November 26th 2014.

"Travel and tourism is not only important to Canada's economic health and job creation, it also provides a platform to share with the world the cultures, traditions and people that make Canada unique. The quality and authenticity of aboriginal cultural experiences available in Canada are exactly what discerning international travellers are searching for. Through this partnership TIAC looks forward to working with ATAC to develop, promote and celebrate Canada's aboriginal cultural tourism offering," stated David Goldstein, TIAC's President 
and CEO.

The National Aboriginal Cultural Tourism Award will recognize an Aboriginal tourism business that has demonstrated a commitment to the development, promotion and delivery of an authentic, innovative and enriched Aboriginal cultural tourism visitor experience. The recipient will have demonstrated a commitment to authentic Aboriginal cultural tourism as a key aspect of encouraging and promoting tourism growth in their region.

"Aboriginal tourism in Canada offers visitors some of the best world class experiences. There are many authentic experiences from cultural centers, cuisine, accommodation, outdoor adventures and many others that celebrate the diversity of our Aboriginal communities from across Canada. Our work in partnership with the Tourism Industry Association of Canada is another step forward on a national scale to ensure the Aboriginal tourism industry is recognized within the entire tourism industry as we strive to meet the growing consumer demands," stated Aboriginal Tourism Association of Canada's Chair Mr. Keith Henry.