Indigenous Business Advisory Program

Indigenous Tourism Ontario (ITO)’s Indigenous Business Advisors (IBA) Program will assist Indigenous tourism businesses throughout the province to improve sustainability and resiliency and encourage success within their operations. This innovative training, coaching and mentoring model ensures that Indigenous tourism businesses have the support required to survive the COVID-19 storm, thrive post-pandemic, and ultimately increase market-readiness. The IBA Program uses a relationship-focused approach whereby businesses receive one-on-one support from industry leading Indigenous tourism professionals. This innovative program will be the first of its kind in Canada, and will set precedence through providing direct, one-on-one support to help businesses succeed.

Meet the IBA Team

 ITO’s Indigenous Business Advisory team has years of consulting experience across the hospitality, tourism, and business development industries. With a passion for rejuvenating Ontario’s Indigenous Tourism economy, and their business expertise, the IBA team is here to help our members with custom advisory services.

Stephen W. Tooshkenig

Indigenous Business Advisor

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Ella Vanderburgt

Indigenous Business Advisor

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Scott Mercs

Indigenous Business Advisor

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Ryan Sawatzky

Indigenous Business Advisor

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Jennifer King-Callon

Indigenous Business Advisor

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To learn more about our Indigenous Business Advisory Program, or to sign up, please contact:  iba@indigenoustourismontario.ca