Yellowknife — April 8, 2026
The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has released Tourism 2030: Sustainable Journeys Ahead, a five-year strategy to grow and strengthen the territory’s tourism economy. Built through extensive engagement with Northerners, the strategy charts a clear path forward for the tourism sector from 2026 to 2030.
Tourism 2030 builds on the previous Tourism 2025: Roadmap to Recovery strategy. While that plan focused on rebuilding after COVID-19, wildfires and flooding, Tourism 2030 celebrates the resilience of NWT tourism operators and sets a vision for sustainable growth, stronger community-based tourism and long-term industry resilience.
The strategy was shaped through engagement with 285 individuals and organizations, including tourism businesses, community members, municipal and Indigenous governments, tourism partner organizations and GNWT departments. The strategy is built around five priorities:
- Capacity Building: Supporting tourism mentorship programs, training funds and workshops to help operators grow and improve service quality.
- Enhance Visitor Experience: Investing in community-based tourism so visitors experience the NWT through authentic stories, local knowledge and meaningful connections.
- Expand Sustainable Tourism Products: Diversifying products across regions and seasons, with investments in community infrastructure and immersive recreational and cultural experiences.
- Strengthen Marketing and Communications: Working with NWT Tourism under the Spectacular NWT brand to build destination awareness and attract high-value, low-impact travellers.
- Leverage Data: Embedding data and research into decision-making to track progress, adapt when needed and remain accountable to residents and industry.
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“Tourism in the Northwest Territories is rooted in people, cultures, and landscapes that are distinct to this place. This strategy reflects what was heard from Northerners and from the industry about what it will take to grow in a way that is both sustainable and grounded in community. Tourism 2030 focuses on supporting operators, strengthening local capacity, and creating opportunities that benefit communities first. By working in partnership with Indigenous governments and industry, the GNWT is helping build a stronger, more resilient tourism sector that reflects where the territory is today and where it is headed.”
- Minister Caitlin Cleveland, Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment
The full strategy is available at Tourism 2030: Sustainable Journeys Ahead
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For media requests, please contact:
Melvin Leonard
Assistant Director, Strategic Communication
Industry, Tourism and Investment
Government of the Northwest Territories
(867) 767-9202 ext. 63038