Rio Tinto, operator of Diavik Diamond Mines, is partnering with NWT Tourism by providing $20,000 for the Northern Staycation Program

Dear members,

On behalf of the Board of Directors, I am delighted to share that NWT Tourism has received a $20,000 commitment from Rio Tinto, the operator of Diavik Diamond Mines, in support of the Northern Staycation Program developed by NWT Tourism. 

Rio Tinto continues to show its commitment to support various organizations and communities during the fight against the spread of COVID-19. This commitment to the tourism industry goes well beyond its operations in the NWT and we are very grateful to receive this support. Our community connections are critical during times of crisis and having the support from Rio Tinto augments the continuous support we are receiving from our main funding partners, in particular the Government of the Northwest Territories. We continue to be stronger together.

While we know that the Northern Staycation marketing initiative will not provide relief to all tourism operations in the NWT and that it will certainly not make up for lost revenue from visitors from outside of the NWT which our industry experienced pre-Covid, the Northern Staycation marketing program is a program that can be implemented during this unprecedented time of border closure to leisure visitors. We are hearing that it is bringing relief and sustainability to some of you across the Northwest Territories, and this is very encouraging. 

We will continue to keep you informed regarding NWT Tourism's marketing activities in the months ahead as we plan for various scenarios related to the pandemic and border restrictions. We encourage you to visit our members’ section of the website at https://members.spectacularnwt.com/ to keep on top of news for our membership.  

If you have any questions or comments on the things we are delivering please connect with me via email at executive@spectacularnwt.com or contact me by phone at 867-873-5007, Extension 1005. 

Take care, stay safe and stay in touch. 

Cathie Bolstad
CEO, Northwest Territories Tourism