YVR and ITBC join forces to advance BC’s Indigenous tourism

Tamara Vrooman (left) president and CEO of Vancouver Airport Authority signed the MOU to advance B.C.’s Indigenous tourism with Brenda Baptiste, ITBC Chair of the Board.

YVR and Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU), creating a new partnership that supports each organization’s goals, contributes to the growth of tourism and drives awareness for the diverse regions of British Columbia.

The surrounding principle of the MOU is collaboration, including opportunities for cross-promotion in the tourism industry, data and knowledge sharing, as well as leveraging market intelligence to help grow and advance Indigenous tourism in B.C.

In pursuit of that growth, a new interactive kiosk at YVR allows passengers, airport workers and the community to experience one of B.C.’s Indigenous tourism experiences.

The kiosk, set up as a welcoming installation, is in the terminal, near U.S. Departures on Level 3.    

This MOU builds on YVR’s commitment to Indigenous tourism in Canada, also demonstrated by the airport’s signing of a historic MOU with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) in 2020.

Musqueam elders welcome newcomers to YVR with a cedar brushing to release negative energy and ensure a safe path on their journey forward. Photo: courtesy YVR.