RADF Investment: $1,575,000

Other Investment: $187,402

Total Investment: $1,762,402

Project Period: April 2009–October 2011

T: 780.332.1222 

Project Description

This project has created a unique, cost-effective, and self-sustaining marketing program that is attracting significant tourism dollars to Alberta's north. The program has developed partnerships between the Peace Region's tourism businesses and local governments. The GeoTourism program, based in Grimshaw, highlights 800 tourist destinations such as museums, forts and trading posts, ghost towns, historical churches, community landmarks, and Aboriginal sites. Visitors are able to explore the region at their own pace with the help of online field guides and GPS devices.

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:

• So far, field guides have generated an estimated $1.2 million in tourism revenue
• Increase tourism spending in Alberta’s north
• Expose previously overlooked tourism opportunities in Alberta
• Develop a GeoTourism program that can be adapted by other regions in the province
• Create a website that offers full program access and information world-wide
• Benefit regional businesses, beyond those aligned with the program, by offering self-guided tours