Calgary, April 25, 2023 – With National Tourism Week underway, a time to celebrate and recognize the economic, social and cultural impacts tourism has across the country, the Calgary Chamber calls on the next provincial government to build on our economic strengths and promote our tourism sector. The province must ensure there is sustainable funding for programming that directly supports tourism and invest in infrastructure that connects tourists to Alberta’s various destinations to advance the long-term growth of the tourism sector.

"We're thrilled to celebrate and recognize Tourism Week, especially as Alberta is a preferred travel destination of choice for many visitors," says Deborah Yedlin, President and CEO of the Calgary Chamber of Commerce. "Tourism is very important to Alberta, annually contributing $10 billion to the economy and supporting thousands of jobs - and we look forward to seeing continued growth supported by government agencies as well as increased investment by the tourism industry."

Our recommendations

Support the industry’s growth

• Increase public awareness of career opportunities within the sector, highlighting the industry as a place for long-term career growth.
• Create an inter-governmental marketing committee – comprised of Invest Alberta, Travel Alberta, Chambers of Commerce, regional tourism agencies, regional economic development agencies and other levels of government – to align messaging and strengthen collaborative efforts to articulate and amplify Alberta’s unique story.

Invest in tourism infrastructure

• Invest in the construction and development of key hosting infrastructure, including the Culture + Entertainment District and Event Centre, allowing Calgary to host major conferences, high-level sporting events and other cultural experiences.
• Invest in new transportation infrastructure, including rail connecting the Calgary Airport to downtown and beyond to enhance the city’s appeal to prospective businesses, talent and visitors looking to leverage public transit.

Leverage government policy

• Re-prioritize the allocation of revenue generated by the province’s four per cent tourism levy to Travel Alberta, ensuring there is sustainable funding for programming that directly supports tourism.
• Refine the Alberta Advantage Immigration Programs, expanding eligibility to work in Alberta and remove barriers to meaningful employment opportunities for newcomers.

ABOUT THE CALGARY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Calgary Chamber exists to help businesses thrive. As the convenor and catalyst for a vibrant, inclusive and prosperous business community, the Chamber works to build strength and resilience among its members and position Calgary as a magnet for talent, diversification and opportunity. As an independent, non-profit, non-partisan organization, we build on our 131-year history to serve and advocate for businesses of all sizes, in all sectors and across the city.

Media opportunities

For media inquiries, please contact Shannon Hazlett, Senior Public Relations Advisor, at media@calgarychamber.com.