Atlantic Canada Gets Winter Boost with Million-Dollar Tourism Injection

The Canadian federal government has announced a $1.1 million investment to strengthen tourism infrastructure in Newfoundland and Labrador, aiming to position the province’s west coast as a year-round destination. The funding, delivered through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), will support five strategic projects designed to extend visitor activity well beyond the traditional summer season.

The announcement signals a clear shift toward four-season tourism, with resources directed to upgrades of ski facilities, the creation of winter hiking trails, and the expansion of Indigenous tourism experiences that can operate throughout colder months. Officials believe these enhancements will attract travelers searching for adventure tourism and authentic nature-based experiences.

“Tourism is the heartbeat of many of our rural communities,” said MP Kody Blois, emphasizing that investing in winter and shoulder-season travel will help sustain local employment and business activity year-round. The move comes as rising global temperatures drive growing demand for “cool-cation” destinations, particularly in northern and coastal regions.

Local tourism operators have welcomed the investment, which will allow small businesses to winterize accommodations and develop new cold-season tour packages. These experiences are expected to showcase the province’s snowy landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and rich cultural heritage, creating new reasons for travelers to visit outside peak summer months.

The initiative also aligns with recent Statistics Canada data showing a notable increase in tourism spending across Atlantic Canada throughout 2025. The strong performance has encouraged policymakers to accelerate support for regions with untapped off-season potential and growing international visibility.

With this latest funding, Newfoundland and Labrador is betting that its frozen fjords, rugged coastlines, and winter adventure offerings can rival the appeal of its famous summer icebergs, positioning the province as one of Canada’s leading all-season tourism destinations.