The Miawpukek First Nations-Conne River Band Council,
operator of the Coast of Bays Arts & Exploration Centre, is developing a
multi-year business plan that supports increasing the area�s tourism
capacity. Supported by a Provincial Government investment of $13,950,
the business plan will better position the council to capitalize on the
area�s unique culture and increase opportunities for local
entrepreneurs.
"Through the Coast of Bays Arts & Exploration Centre,
the band council is taking necessary steps to increase tourism
opportunities in the Coast of Bays region," said the Honourable Shawn
Skinner, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development. "Coast of
Bays offers visitors a unique and authentic cultural experience. Through
increased planning, the band council is able to identify opportunities
that enable local businesses to take advantage of the region�s
heritage."
As part of the band council�s planning, it will
outline an expanded role for the Coast of Bay�s Arts & Exploration
Centre and position it as being a central component of the area�s
tourism industry. The plan will also address such areas as marketing and
communications, market research, and human resources needs,
availability, and training.
"Our vision is to position the Arts and Exploration
Centre as the focal point for information in the region," said Gerard
Joe, Manager of the Department of Economic Development, Conne River Band
Council. "To achieve our objective of attracting local, national, and
international visitors to the Coast of Bays region, Provincial
Government support is important."
Constructed in 2004, the Coast of Bays Arts &
Exploration Centre houses heritage displays, provides space for
performing arts, promotes the development of artistic skills, and
preserves the region�s historic artifacts.
"The distinct Aboriginal culture and attractions in
the region set the stage for developing an authentic brand of tourism,"
said Tracey Perry, MHA, Fortune Bay-Cape LaHune. "There are many
opportunities to increase visitation to the region, which will
ultimately create new business and employment opportunities."
The Miawpukek First Nations of Conne River was
officially recognized as an Indian Band and given reserve status in
1985. Since that time the band council has worked to capture and
celebrate cultural, linguistic and spiritual traditions.
This initiative was funded through the Regional/Sectoral
Diversification Fund (RSDF), which through Budget 2009 was increased to
an $8 million fund. Administered by the Department of Innovation, Trade
and Rural Development, the RSDF provides non-repayable contributions to
economic development agencies for initiatives that address regional and
sectoral development and diversification.
