The Right Honourable Mark Carney, P.C., M.P.
Office of the Prime Minister
80 Wellington Street
Ottawa, ON K1A 0A2

Dear Prime Minister Carney,

Canada’s tourism sector is united in its concern about the future of the International Convention Attraction Fund (ICAF). Budget 2025 did not renew the program, which expires in March 2026. This $10 million annual investment delivers a 22-to-1 return and advances your trade diversification and competitiveness objectives.

Your Budget 2025 vision aims to catalyze $1 trillion in investment over five years by focusing “government spending where it delivers the highest return.” ICAF exemplifies this approach. International conferences are being planned now for 2028, 2029, and beyond.

However, without ICAF’s renewal, Canadian cities will be unable to compete with international destinations that offer millions in financial support for these bids. Each lost opportunity represents foregone economic activity and tax revenue. It also means Canadian researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders lose the chance to connect with global peers and showcase Canadian innovation.

According to Destination Canada, ICAF has committed $30.5 million since launched, winning 87 events projected to generate $649.8 million in direct economic impact and $44.8 million in federal tax revenue. The program was originally projected to only generate $174 million.

Just as “Own the Podium” helps Canadian athletes win Olympic gold, ICAF helps Canadian cities win high-value international gatherings of global leaders in advanced manufacturing, AI, life sciences, finance and insurance, natural resources, and agribusiness. These are the sectors critical to reducing Canada’s reliance on a single trade partner and building the strongest economy in the G7.

We are asking you to commit $10 million annually for four years to renew the International Convention Attraction Fund. This strategic investment exemplifies the crowding in approach central to Budget 2025—public dollars that mobilize multiples of private sector activity. ICAF will catalyze hundreds of millions in private investment, protect thousands of jobs, and strengthen Canada’s competitive position in the global business events market. This is precisely the type of high-return, productivity-enhancing investment your government has prioritized.

Please confirm your support and renew the International Convention Attraction Fund.

Cordialement,