RADF Investment: $1,231,000

Other Investment: $1,791,047

Total Investment: $3,022,047

Project Period: January 2008–March 2011

T: 780.986.0063
E: [email protected]

Project Description

This project gives the Edmonton Regional Tourism Group (ERTG) the ability to support and promote rural tourism and small agri-businesses. Examples of such businesses include bed & breakfasts, U-picks, farm tours, and cultural and historic venues. Support from the Rural Alberta Development Fund has led to the creation of staff positions, the purchase of materials, and the development of training resources needed to help rural operators draw more urban consumers.

Expected Outcomes and Benefits

All projects go through a selection process to ensure they will improve the quality of life for Albertans. This project meets this objective through the following outcomes and benefits:

• Achieve the economic growth and community capacity necessary to be self-sufficient
• Increase urban consumer spending on rural tourism and agri-goods
• Increase business and management skills in rural operators in order to increase their chances of success
• Add diversity to the agricultural sector
• Create more rural tourism operators
• Develop a certification and mentorship program that gives operators the training and resources to ensure their products and services are customer-ready
• Complete groundbreaking land-use study for agri-tourism
• Give producers and business owners access to promotional and marketing resources at a fraction of the stand-alone cost
• Encourage economic growth in small communities, making them a better place to live