Carey Perkins, a Kanienʼkehá:ka entrepreneur from Akwesasne, was granted $25,000 in January 2025 for her business, Niio Perkins Designs, which specializes in raised beadwork jewelry. Despite the approval, she has yet to receive the funds, causing financial strain on her studio space and insurance. The grant was part of the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) initiative that aimed to support small Indigenous businesses.
Perkins expressed her frustration at the delay, stating that the situation has led to challenges in maintaining her studio space, resulting in her having to vacate the premises in August 2025. ITAC, as outlined in its 2023-24 annual report, focuses on fostering authentic Indigenous tourism in Canada through various programs, including the Micro and Small Business Stream (MSBS) that awarded $3.3 million in federal funding to 136 Indigenous tourism businesses in early 2025.
Following the delayed disbursement of funds, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada has acknowledged the concerns raised and committed to investigating the matter to ensure rightful recipients are reimbursed. Keith Henry, the President and CEO of ITAC, acknowledged that some payments from the MSBS program are still outstanding, with efforts being made to settle all dues as revenues permit.
Perkins highlighted her disappointment in the process, noting that she was instructed to spend the funds before receiving them, leading to financial difficulties. Similarly, Aïcha Smith-Belghaba, another business owner awaiting her $25,000 MSBS grant, expressed how the delay has affected her business expansion plans and financial stability.
Moreover, Indigenous businesses reported late payments following an ITAC-hosted tourism conference in Edmonton. Nathan Rainy Chief, executive director of 49 Dzine, emphasized the importance of timely payments, especially for elders and knowledge keepers. Despite facing financial challenges, ITAC remains hopeful for major funding from the Passion Project Foundation to sustain its operations and support Indigenous tourism initiatives.
The situation underscores the need for improved communication and accountability in funding distribution within the Indigenous business community.