AUNDECK OMNI KANING, Ont. — Indigenous Tourism Ontario (ITO) and the Tourism Innovation Lab (TIL) have launched the fifth edition of the Skode program with a focus on developing Indigenous culinary tourism in the province.
They’re looking to inspire Indigenous entrepreneurs, businesses, non-profit organizations and community groups to come forward with new Indigenous culinary tourism ideas and experiences that will authentically represent, celebrate and promote Indigenous food in Ontario.
The end result of the competition will reward three pitch session winners with a $5,000 non-repayable financial contribution and three months of mentorship to bring their Indigenous culinary ideas to life.
“With this new edition of the Skode program, we’re excited to support continued tourism innovation, shed light on different career paths, and inspire Indigenous youth to follow their passions,” says Kevin Eshkawkogan, president and CEO of ITO.
“For the fifth round of the Skode program, we’re excited to collaborate once again with Indigenous Tourism Ontario and spark new Indigenous culinary entrepreneurs and initiatives in the province,” says Justin Lafontaine, program lead for the TIL.
Applications are being accepted from now until Jan. 15, 2025 at tourisminnovation.ca/ito. Prospective applicants must be ITO members and must enroll in the ITO Feast Accreditation Program prior to a Skode program submission.
