OTTAWA — To help encourage Canada’s next generation of tourism entrepreneurs, the Honourable Bardish Chagger, Leader of the Government in the House of Commons and Minister of Small Business and Tourism, welcomed a group of 47 young Canadians, aged 18 to 24, to Ottawa for the first-ever Canadian En[tour]preneur Experience in August.
The group of young entrepreneurs from across Canada spent two days learning about the industry. The learning opportunities at the three-day event included hands-on experiences at famous Ottawa landmarks, as well as group work and presentations by leading coaches and mentors.
Participants and industry experts also discussed challenges and opportunities in the sector, ways to promote tourism in the digital age and other resources to help attract the next generation of young travellers.
“Joining such a passionate and creative group of young Canadians has been an inspiration,” says Minister Chagger. “Their ideas, commitment and perspectives have been truly insightful. I hope they leave this experience feeling empowered and encouraged about pursuing a career in Canada’s tourism sector, taking advantage of the many great opportunities there are for hard-working entrepreneurs to do what they love and grow their businesses, and helping promote Canada’s world-leading tourism experiences.”
Candidates from every province and territory were selected through an open-application process based on a specific set of criteria to ensure regional representation, diversity and inclusiveness. An external advisory committee made recommendations on the 47 finalists.
