Huu-ay-aht First Nations (HFN) is leading the development of what they envision will be the first Indigenous-led Destination Management Organization (DMO) in British Columbia, in partnership with the implementation of a Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT).
Together, these initiatives will create a strong foundation for sustainable tourism governance, enhanced marking capacity, and increased local business involvement, responding directly to a rise in visitors following recent upgrades to the Bamfield Main Road.
This work is intentionally aligned with the development of the Cultural & Visitor Information Centre, a cornerstone tourism assent that will offer visitor services, a cultural museum featuring repatriated Huu-ay-aht artifacts, Indigenous artisan retail space, and a hospitality check-in hub.
By establishing a strategic, culturally grounded destination management structure, the project ensures the Centre is supported by long-term funding mechanisms and effective oversight. Overall, this initiative will help diversify the regional economy, create employment, expand Indigenous entrepreneurship opportunities, and strengthen stewardship of Huu-ay-aht cultural and environmental values.
The Trust is investing in the Framework through the Investment Readiness Program, in line with its Investment Priorities of Cultural and Nature-Based Tourism.
Wellbeing Impact
The Trust invests in projects using a Wellbeing Impact Framework that looks beyond traditional economic metrics. This approach evaluates how each investment strengthens economic prosperity, cultural vitality, climate resilience, and social empowerment. By focusing on outcomes that matter to people and place, the Trust works to spur new investments that create meaningful, lasting benefits across Vancouver Island and the coast.
This initiative will create a unique regional hub, strengthen the economy, and position Bamfield as a leading Indigenous tourism destination. By diversifying the regional economy, generating employment, and enhancing Indigenous entrepreneurship this venture will build a strong foundation for long-term destination management.
Economic Prosperity
This project strengthens the local economy by:
Social Empowerment
The project supports social empowerment with:
Climate Resiliency
The project will contribute to climate resiliency by:
Cultural Vitality
The project will strengthen cultural vitality by:
As we work toward inclusive and resilient economic futures, we do so with a deep appreciation for the histories, contributions, and rights of the Kwak̓wala/Bakwam’kala, Nuučaa̓nuɫ, Éy7á7juuthem, Ligwilda'xw, Pəntl'áč, She shashishalhem, Hul’q’umi’num’, diitiidʔaatx̣, SENĆOŦEN, Skwxwú7mesh, Lekwungen, and T’Sou-ke speaking peoples.
