Qalipu First Nation Tourism and arts & crafts Strategy

CES was hired by Experience Qalipu to create a tourism strategy that brings artisans and operators together and supports their growth, creating a sense of community and building capacity. The goal was to increase awareness and aid in the preservation of culture and traditional knowledge in a way that incorporates traditional Mi’kmaw culture in new ways. By working with the Experience Qalipu team, the organization’s mission statement and Qalipu’s Five Guiding Values were developed. Then, with additional input from the community, CES created a five-year strategic plan for Indigenous tourism and arts and crafts development that sets the path for the growth, awareness, and accessibility of artisans and operators.

Through community and stakeholder engagement and research, CES created a plan with 50 action items with measurable outcomes to be implemented over a five-year period of continual growth. This two-phase plan begins by looking inward to support and empower the growth of community members, artisans, and operators, as well as creating a single platform to promote the region's tourism products, services, and arts and crafts. Next, the plan shifts focus to looking outward by opening Qalipu’s doors and attracting tourists from around the world to experience Qalipu’s culture, people, and traditions, all the while connecting Mi’kmaw people of all regions.