Why Canada’s business events sector needs ICAF ICAF has been a game-changer for the country’s business events sector by helping destination marketing organizations (DMOs) across the country win well over half-a-billion dollars’ worth of international convention business. Meetings Mean Business Canada (MMBC) is leading the sector in advocating for permanent funding to keep the momentum going. “Having an incentive fund to attract international conferences to Canada is an ongoing project, not just a three-year deal,” says MMBC chair, Minto Schneider, CDME. Highlighting fierce competition from the US, Europe and the UAE to host international business events, Schneider says permanent funding would give DMOs a reliable tool for competing globally. “It also has meant that some cities have bid on conferences that they never would have been able to bid on before because their DMOs didn’t have budgets for that type of event attraction.” Good to Know International Convention Attraction Fund Destination Canada’s ICAF initiative supports qualifying Canadian DMOs in their bids to host major international business events. Offering up to $1 million per event, funding is awarded based on a scoring system evaluating such things as economic impact, international atten- dance and potential legacy benefits. ICAF RESULTS AS OF SEPTEMBER 2025: $29M in federal funding 77 business events won 248,989 overnight delegates $632.6M direct economic impact $43.7M direct federal tax revenue 5,271+ full-time employees supported SOURCE: DESTINATION CANADA Minto Schneider, CDME Welcome to Dakota Dunes Resort. Located on Whitecap Dakota Territory, just 20 minutes from downtown Saskatoon, we invite you to discover a meeting experience deeply rooted in Dakota culture, the land, and the legacy of its people. • Ideal for corporate retreats, conferences, or incentive events • Gatherings enhanced with traditional drumming, singing, and welcome ceremonies • Unique group adventures in every season — plus golf, casino, and the Thermal Spa (opening November 2026) • Indigenous-inspired cuisine with rich farm- to-table menus DAKOTA DUNES RESORT, Whitecap, SK Inspiring. Authentic. Unforgettable. CONNECT WITH US Angie Gessner, Group Sales Manager E: [email protected] T: 306-668-3705 TOURISM AS AN ECONOMIC DRIVER
