How-To Guide on Adventure Tourism

This How-To Guide is designed to assist you with secondary research by giving you key information and contacts for the adventure tourism sector in Newfoundland and Labrador.

For general regulations applicable to any business operating in the province, see our Business Start-Up Info-Guide.  It contains information on incorporation, taxation, labour laws, intellectual property, and more.

For details on any organization listed in this guide, contact the organization directly.

If you have any questions about this guide, or, for information on our Network Sites , please contact us directly.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Start your business plan
1.  What is a business plan?
2.  Can I do my business plan online?
3.  Where can I find a sample business plan?
4.  Who can help me write my business plan?

Start your research
5.  What is the economic outlook for Newfoundland and Labrador?
6.  What strategic sectors are being promoted by my region?
7.  What is adventure tourism?
8.  Where can I find a profile of the adventure tourism industry?
9.  Where can I find information on sustainable tourism and best practices?
10.  Where can I find business statistics?
11.  Are there industry associations I can join and what membership benefits do they offer?
12.  Where can I find books, trade magazines and local sector studies?
13.  Are there trade shows I can attend?
14.  Where can I get training?
15.  What do I need to know about legal liability, risk management and insurance?

Know the regulations
16.  Which government departments or agencies do I need to contact?

Finance your business
17.  How do I prepare before approaching lenders?
18.  What government financing is available to me?
19.  What other agencies offer financing?

Start Your Business Plan

1.  What is a business plan?
A business plan is simply a written document that describes the future path of a business. A good business plan explains the business concept, summarizes the objectives of the business, identifies the resources (both in terms of money and people) needed by the business, describes how those resources will be obtained, and tells the reader why the business will succeed.

Business plans come in many shapes and sizes. Sections common to most business plans include:

• an executive summary which summarizes key points of the business plan in one or two pages;
• an overview which introduces the reader to the business;
• a description of the products and services;
• an overview of the industry in which the business will compete;
• a marketing strategy which summarizes the product, promotion, pricing, and distribution strategies of the business;
• a description of the management and staff;
• an implementation plan; and
• a financial plan which includes pro-forma balance sheets, income statements and cash flow statements.

Business plans can vary in length from a few pages to over 100 pages. Although there are no hard and fast rules, many sources recommend that business plans should be between 10 pages and 25 pages in length. Remember that a business plan is a summary; you can always provide more information if asked or you can attach more detailed background documents to your business plan.

A business plan is important because:

• the process of preparing a business plan will force you to think about your business, research some options, recognize opportunities and risks, and test some of your assumptions;
• it will help you identify the cash needs of your business;
• it can be used to raise funding from banks and from investors;
• it can be used to tell employees, investors and others about your plans and strategies; and
• it provides a benchmark against which to compare the progress and performance of your business.

It is a good idea for all businesses to prepare and regularly update their business plans. However, small businesses are most likely to prepare a business plan when they are just starting up or when a major change in their business is occurring (and often when additional investment or a loan is needed).***

2.  Can I do my business plan online?

(Back to table of contents)

Interactive Business Planner  (IBP)
The Interactive Business Planner (IBP) is an award-winning business planning tool that enables you to do your business plan online! With the IBP, you will:

• be guided through each section of your business plan using a question and answer format
• learn definitions and tips, and view sample business plans to help you to write your own plan
• have financial projections prepared for you, based upon the information you provide, and
• use the power of the Internet to assist you in researching your business plan.

Metro Business Opportunities
The Online Business Planner is MBOC's interactive solution to the difficulties of planning for a business.

3.  Where can I find a sample business plan?

Business Plan Handbook Series
The Business Plan Handbook series is an 8-volume set of books published by Gale Publishers. Each volume contains sample business plans based on actual North American businesses. The Business Plan Handbook is not available online; however you can visit any of the Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Network Sites  and view the books, or call 1-800-668-1010.

Samples related to adventure tourism are:

• Adventure Travel Lodging Company
• Boating Adventures Ltd.
• Steven B. Belkin (Group travel service)
• Tinner Corp. (Online hospitality service)
• RAD-Venture (Outdoor adventue)
• International Business Tours (Travel agency)
• Travelling U.S. Inc. (Travel information kiosk)
• YouCan Adventures (Canoe and kayak rentals)

4.  Who can help me write my business plan?

(Back to table of contents)

Y-Enterprise (YEC)
A recognized leader in business plan development, staff of the Y-Enterprise offer in-depth one-on-one counselling to help clients determine the viability of a business. The client is responsible for writing the plan; however, an experienced business consultant guides clients through each section at a comfortable pace.

Y Employment & Enterprise Services - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Supplement

Community Business Development Corporations
CBDC's are located throughout the Province. Staff assist in the creation of small businesses and in the expansion and modernization of existing businesses by providing financial and technical services to entrepreneurs. Technical services include business counselling & advice. Fees for services may apply - check with your local CBDC.

CBDC - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Entreprise and Entrepreneurship Gateway - Memorial University
Business coaches offer technology-able, youth entrepreneurs assistance in evaluating their idea, determining the human, material and financial resources required, developing an enterprise plan, and connecting with the most relevant resource. No fee for services.

Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Gateway (MUN)
Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN)
Faculty of Business Administration
Business Building, Room 4014
St. John's, NL  A1B 3X5
Telephone: 709-737-8855
Fax: 709-737-2383
E-mail: gateway@business.mun.ca
Web site: http://www.business.mun.ca/gateway

Metro Business Opportunities Corporation
Through the business plan development component of the Entrepreneurial Opportunities Program (EOP) staff offer clients one-on-one assistance in developing their business plan. There are no fees for services. However, the application process is competitive and limited to a maximum of ten (10) individuals.

Avalon - St. John's Metropolitan Area
Metro Business Opportunities Corporation (MBOC)
35 Blackmarsh Road
Triton Building, Suite 107
St. John's, NL  A1E 1S4
Telephone: (709) 738-1626
E-mail: contact@mboc.ca
Web site: http://www.mboc.ca

Private consultants
See Business Consultants in the yellow pages of your telephone directory if you wish to hire a private consultant to develop your business plan for you. Private consultants usually charge an hourly rate plus expenses (eg. photocopying; long-distance telephone charges; etc.)

Start Your Research

5.  What is the economic outlook for Newfoundland and Labrador?

Department of Finance
Information on the economy of Newfoundland and Labrador can be found on the Department of Finance Web site. Specifically, look for these sections:

• The Economy (an annual publication)
• Economic Overview
• Economic Indicators
• Major Projects
• Forecasts
• Statistics ( includes links to the Newfoundland Statistics Agency; Community Accounts; and Statistics Canada)
• Population Projections

6.  What strategic sectors are being promoted by my Regional Economic Development Board?

Regional Economic Development Boards (REDB)
The Province of Newfoundland and Labrador is divided into twenty economic zones each represented by a Regional Economic Development Board (REDB) whose job it is to facilitate the development of business and economic opportunities in its zone.

Each of these Boards has developed a strategic 5-year plan which lists sectors identified as having strong potential for growth. Many boards have their plans posted on their respective Web sites.

7.  What is adventure tourism?

"Adventure tourism" is used throughout this guide to reflect the teminology of the groups responsible for this tourism sector in Newfoundland and Labrador - primarily the Adventure Tourism Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (ATANL) and the Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation (TCR).

Adventure Tourism Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (ATANL)
(part of Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador)

From ATANL's constitution, one can derive aspects of what adventure tourism is in this province:

• their vision is for eco/adventure tourism in Newfoundland and Labrador to be ecologically, commercially, culturally and socially sustainable
• part of their mission is to serve the needs of operators offering non-consumptive products
• their  Executive Committee is made up of representatives for kayaking / canoeing; snow-related activities; snowmobiling / ATV tours; boat tours; ecotourism and native tourism activities; and guiding.

Nationally and internationally, there are numerous terms that are synonomous with adventure tourism , such as:  adventure travel; ecotourism; nature tourism; outdoor tourism; special interest travel; soft adventure; hard adventure; spiritual tourism; cultural tourism; extreme sports; etc.  Below are some definitions and issues found in researching this guide.

Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC)

As a result of the rapid growth of interest, worldwide, in ecotourism and nature-based tourism experiences, hundreds of widely varying and sometimes contradictory definitions of the term "ecotourism" are currently in use by organizations around the world, causing confusion and misunderstanding for Canadian tourism operators and their clients and resulting, in some cases, in misuse of the ecotourism label. This situation can potentially harm the integrity of Canada's tourism industry as a whole, as ecotourists who come to Canada expecting a different kind of experience than they actually receive will be disappointed, and perhaps resentful at having been misled. Likewise, there is the risk that Canadian tourism operations offering true ecotourism experiences will be devalued in international travel markets.

TIAC recognized that a nationally accepted definition of ecotourism was needed to assist the further development of this growing segment of our industry, and to protect the reputation of Canadian tourism generally. Such a definition could enable operators to more closely meet the expectations of domestic and international visitors, and provide guidance for those wishing to develop ecotourism-based businesses or add an ecotourism component to existing operations.

At the 2002 National Conference on Tourism, TIAC launched extensive consultations among its members aimed at developing an ecotourism definition for Canada's tourism industry. The consultation process was completed in May 2003. The final definition is:

Ecotourism is a segment of sustainable tourism that offers experiences that enable visitors to discover natural areas while preserving their integrity, and to understand, through interpretation and education, the natural and cultural sense of place. It fosters respect towards the environment, reflects sustainable business practices, creates socio-economic benefits for communities/regions, and recognizes and respects local and indigenous cultures, traditions and values.

Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC)
(From Product Innovation and Enhancement section of web site: "A Breath of Fresh Air : A Business Strategy for Outdoor Tourism Product Development in Canada")

In this document, the CTC defines ecotourism and adventure travel as follows:

Ecotourism: is travel that creates a high level of understanding and interpretation of cultural and natural history, while safeguarding the integrity of ecosystems. It produces economic benefits to local communities that encourage resource preservation and sustainable tourism development practices.

Adventure tourism: is an outdoor leisure activity that generally takes place in an unusual, exotic, remote or wilderness setting, usually involving some form of unconventional means of transportation, and tending to be associated with low or high levels of physical activity. The activity may entail some element of risk.

The CTC lists the following as outdoor tourism products available in Canada: bird watching; bungee jumping; charter boat excursions; camping expeditions; horseback riding; snowshoeing; snowmobiling; storm watching; wildlife/nature viewing; whale watching; white water kayaking; all terrain vehicle touring; fly fishing; sea kayaking; mountain biking; caving; rafting; rock/ice climbing; sailing; skiing; ski touring; hiking/backpacking; cross country skiing; dog sledding; scuba diving; heli hiking; heli skiing.

Council of Tourism Associations of BC
(From: The B.C. Growth Management Strategy)

Outdoor tourism products provide the traveller the opportunity to enjoy the outdoor setting. The traveller may participate in an outdoor activity or may choose to just relax and enjoy the setting....Outdoor experiences can be undertaken independently or provided by a tourism business which may offer guides, equipment, transportation, accommodation and meals.  This product can be divided into two major groups. The first group is comprised of companies which provide services for individuals to take part in outdoor activities, but do not offer fixed-roof accommodation. The second offers accommodation facilities where outdoor activities are staged from the facility.

Article: "Definition of Adventure Travel : Conceptual Framework for Empirical Application from the Providers' Perspective" (1997)

Heidi H. Sung, Alastair M. Morrison and Joseph T. O'Leary, professors at Purdue University,  proposed a definition of adventure travel as:
a trip or travel with the specific purpose of activity participation to explore a new experience, often involving perceived risk or controlled danger associated with personal challenges, in a natural environment or exotic outdoor setting.

The authors identified six major components that are found to be highly important characteristics of adventure travel: activity; motivation; risk; performance; experience; and environment.  The most commonly provided outdoor adventure activities listed in this article are: arctic trips; backpacking; ballooning; bicycling; bird watching; bungee jumping; camping; canoeing; diving (scuba, sky); dog sledding; fishing; four wheel drive trips; hand gliding; hiking; horseback riding; hunting; jungle exploring; kayaking; motorcycling; mountain biking; mountain climbing; nature trips; orienteering; paragliding; rafting; rappelling; rogaining; safaris; sailing; snorkeling; skiing; snow shoeing; snowmobiling; skydiving; spelunking; survival and wilderness training; soaring; walking tours; windsurfing; trekking.

Book: "Adventure Travel and Ecotourism Best Practices Tour 2000"
(Excerpt from article by Pierre Desjardins, Director Expéditon Eau Vive, Quebec)

More and more, adventure travel and ecotourism operators seem to be refining themselves in response to the myriad of terms used to describe adventure experiences.  In my business, I'm now referring to "nature tourism" as including all categories of tourism that involve nature in a significant way, including: adventure tourism; ecotourism; soft adventure; spiritual tourism; cultural tourism; sports/hard adventure tourism.

The presentation of nature products, the understanding of these products in terms of the types of client they could attract, and the method used to promote them has been a very important element in the success of my business. For example, our products are positioned to cater to different markets as follows:

• Adventure products : one-week canoe expedition. The canoe is the means of transport. Discovering open spaces, fauna and flora, and going canoe-camping are the principal activities
• Ecotourism products : a one-day trip through the Plaisance wildlife preserve. The canoe is the means of transport. Ornithology is the principal activity
• Spiritual tourism : four-day canoe expedition. The canoe is the means of transport. Contact with nature, reconnecting with nature, Tai Chi and meditation are the principal activities
• Cultural tourism : a one-hour Rabaska canoe expedition. The canoe is the means of transport. Talks on the history of our region and the 'coureurs des bois' woodsmen are the principal activities.

8.  Where can I find a profile of the adventure tourism industry?

Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC)
(From Product Innovation and Enhancement section of web site: "A Breath of Fresh Air : A Business Strategy for Outdoor Tourism Product Development in Canada")

Outdoor tourism is growing around the world. Canada is well positioned to attract much of this growth and the outdoor tourism industry in Canada has grown 15% per year over the past five years.

The market is expected to increase significantly and international demand will rise. The largest and fastest growing travel markets (young seniors and baby boomers in the 35-55 years old bracket) are wealthier, better educated and want to travel. They are seeking new and more enriching experiences related to adventure, nature and culture. These travelers are becoming more demanding, looking for highly specialized guiding services as well as personalized service. While spending money appears not to be a concern, the best value for the money spent is desired.

Trends indicate that a growth in off season travel is being noted and that visitors are more and more looking for excitement; an authentic outdoors experience and in some cases, an element of risk. In addition, aboriginal and cultural tourism products are of high interest amongst this group.

Current research shows that women are now playing a more important role in travel decisions. Another trend is an exponential growth in Internet use for travel research and purchasing. A rapidly increasing number of outdoor tourism related operators are now attracting potential customers, allowing them to plan and book their trips through well designed and marketed websites.

Canada has a tremendous wealth of quality outdoor experiences. There are over 2000 outdoor tourism operators in Canada. In addition, there are many opportunities remaining for additional product development.

Canada's outdoor tourism product is world-class, competing with Nepal, New Zealand, Costa Rica, Belize, Australia, Kenya and the United States. Canada has enviable future value because of its extensive, untapped natural resource base. Canada's extensive arctic, mountain, coast, and lake topography facilitate a wide variety of product possibilities.

Department of Finance
The Department profiles the tourism industry in their annual publication The Economy . The 2006 edition states that:

Tourism spending in the province is estimated at approximately $800 million per year.  Resident travel accounts for about 60% of total spending with the remainder accounted for by non-resident tourists.

Preliminary figures indicate that 469,600 non-resident visitors came to the province in 2005 and spent an estimated $336 million.  This represents an increase of 4.5% in the number of visitors and an increase of 4.9% in expenditures compared to 2004.

While overall touist activity increased in 2005, performance varied regionally.  Urban communities saw growth in tourism visitation and revenues, stemming mainly from the developing convention and cruise markets, as well as the increase in air passenger movements.  However, some rural areas experienced declines mainly due to reduced levels of automobile visitors.

Regarding the outlook for 2006:

• Overall, tourism activity is expected to hold steady in 2006.  The shift in mode of travel, from auto to air, will likely continue
• Cruise ship passenger visits are expected to be on par with 2005
• Expansion of infrastructure, such as the Trans Labrador Highway and the Humber Valley resort, should foster continued growth in these regions
• The conventionsector is expected to maintain the record level recorded in 2005
• Air passenger movements at the St. John's airport are expected to grow by 7%
• The City of St. John's will receive financial support from the federal government for being recognized as one of five communities designated as a Cultural Capital of Canada for 2006.  These funds will enable it to undertake a range of cultural and artistic activities.

9.  Where can I find information on sustainable tourism and best practices?

Gros Morne Institute for Sustainable Tourism (GMIST)
The Gros Morne Institute for Sustainable Tourism (GMIST) is intended to advance the quality and success of Atlantic Canadian tourism operators through an array of training programs to be developed and offered at the Institute. The objective is to enhance the quality and sustainability of outdoor/nature-based experiences afforded throughout Atlantic Canada, by providing developmental training programs respecting: sustainable tourism practices, experiential tourism services and eco-adventure tourism.

The Institute and its programs will:

• Advance the quality of tourism services/facilities and the advancement of sustainable tourism development/delivery with information, training, best practices and models;
• Support diversification and enhanced quality of sustainable nature-based tourism adventures and experiences by traditional and non-traditional tourism experience providers;
• Build the capacity of Atlantic Canada's tourism operators to reach new international and domestic markets.

Mr. Greg Wood
Gros Morne Institute for Sustainable Tourism (GMIST)
P.O. Box 130
Rocky Harbour, Newfoundland & Labrador  A0K 4N0
Telephone: 709-458-2481
Fax: 709-458-2059
E-mail: greg.wood@gmist.ca
Web site: http://www.gmist.ca/

Parks Canada Sustainable Tourism Award

The criteria established for the Parks Canada Sustainable Tourism Award reflect the three pillars of sustainable tourism development-economic viability, environmental sustainability, and cultural appropriateness. The recipient of this award has made a contribution to practising and promoting sustainable tourism in Canada by:

• Demonstrating a commitment to excellence and encouraging an appreciation of, and respect for, Canada's natural, cultural and aesthetic heritage;
• Striving to achieve tourism development in a manner which harmonizes economic objectives with the protection and enhancement of Canada's natural and cultural heritage;
• Cooperating with colleagues and the tourism industry in promoting sustainable development;
• Offering tourism products and services that are consistent with community values and the surrounding environment; and
• Fostering greater awareness of the economic, social, cultural and environmental significance of tourism.

Recognizing the importance of encouraging studies related to sustainable tourism among future tourism industry entrepreneurs and employees, as part of the award, a $1,000 scholarship will be given every year to a student entering his or her final year of tourism-related studies at a representative university or college in each of Canada's five regions—Western Canada, Ontario, Québec, Atlantic Canada and Northern Canada.

The 2005 award winner was Ocean Quest Charters from Conception Bay South, NL.

Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Sustainable Tourism

The Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) originally developed an industry Code of Ethics for Sustainable Tourism in the early 1990s.  The Code was updated in February 2005.

Adventure travel and ecotourism best practices tour 2000 : leading Ontario and Quebec operators share their exemplary practices (2000)
By: Canada Tourism Commission (CTC)

Best practices in natural heritage collaborations : parks and outdoor tourism operators (2001)
By: Canada Tourism Commission (CTC)

10.  Where can I find business statistics?

Statistics for Business Planning
The Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre (CNLBSC) and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) partnered to develop an online guide called Statistics for Business Planning. The guide links you to key sources for business statistics. Types of statistics included are:

• Industry Classifications - find the statistical industry classification number for your business
• Manufacturing Statistics  - obtain a wide range of statistics on manufacturing industries in Canada
• Small Business Profiles - determine how the average company in your specific industry is performing
• Industry Bench Marking - compare your estimates for sales and expenses to other companies in the industry
• Imports and Exports - track how much of your goods or services are currently imported and exported
• Household Spending - look at the how much Canadians are spending on goods and services
• The Competition - find out who your competitors are and where they are located
• Population Projection - Newfoundland and Labrador - see what changes are anticipated in population for Newfoundland and Labrador
• Population Projections - Canada - see what changes are anticipated in population for Canada
• Community Profiles - obtain demographic, education, income and household statistics by community
• Labour Supply / Costs - obtain the labour rates and estimated availability of labour by occupational group.

There are additional statistics in this guide, under the question: Where can I find a profile of the adventure tourism industry? Other statistics may be available from the Canada/Newfoundland & Labrador Business Service Centre, as we have an extensive business library which includes publications specific to the tourism industry.

Canada Tourism Commission
The section of the CTC web site that is devoted to publications includes the following categories:

• General publications
• Research
• Tourism statistics & figures
• Marketing
• Product innovation and enhancement
• Industry relations
• Tourism Magazine Online

Newfoundland and Labrador Statistics Agency (NLSA)
The NLSA compiles statistical reports on tourism on behalf of the Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation.  The following reports on tourism are available:

• 2005 Provincial Tourism Performance
• 2005 Regional Tourism Performance
• 2004 Provincial Tourism Performance
• 2004 Regional Tourism Performance
• 2003/2004 Travel/Tourism Indicators for Newfoundland & Labrador
• 2003-2004 Newfoundland and Labrador Exit Survey
• 2003-2004 Exit Survey Program Highlights
• 2003-2004 Non-Resident Follow-up Survey

Newfoundland and Labrador Statistics Agency
Economics and Statistics Branch
Department of Finance
P.O. Box 8700
St. John's, NL  A1B 4J6
Telephone: (709) 729-2913
Fax: (709) 729-5149
E-mail: infostats@gov.nl.ca
Web site: http://www.stats.gov.nl.ca/

11.  Are there industry associations I can join and what membership benefits do they offer?

Adventure Tourism Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (ATANL)
(part of Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador)

Whether you are a water based, land based, or winter based operation, ATANL keeps you abreast of the issues and legislation that affects your business (eg. marine liablity act; risk management; etc.). ATANL also co-ordinates workshops and training relevant to this sector.

To be eligible for membership in ATANL as a voting member, you must meet three basic requirements:

• you must have coverage for your employees from the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission (WHSCC)
• you must have public liability Insurance
• members plus guides (those actually guiding groups) must have valid Wilderness First Aid (16 hrs) and CPR certificates.

Other requirements for Membership are:

• you must have an awareness of and adherence to ethics and quidelines of the association
• you must compliance with general business laws, environmental laws, and First Nations agreements effective in Newfoundland and Labrador that might affect your business.

Ms. Pete Barrett
c/o Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador (HNL)
Adventure Tourism Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (ATANL)
ICON Building , 2nd Floor
187 Kenmount Road
St. John's, NL  A1B 3P9
Telephone: 709-722-2000
Fax: 709-722-8104
Toll-free (information): 1-800-563-0700
E-mail: hnl@hnl.ca
Web site: http://adventure.hnl.ca/

Tourism Industry Association of Canada
Full membership benefits include:

• a copy of the TIAC/RVC Directory containing detailed information on Rendez-vous Canada buyers, sellers and TIAC members
• a subscription to Canadian Escapes magazine (6 issues per year)
• discounted advertising rates in Canadian Escapes
• weekly TIAC Talk news bulletins and occasional TIAC Talk Issue Focus reports
• the opportunity to participate in TIAC's annual Talking Tourism Symposium and Issue Forums
• research and survey programs
• discounted registration for Rendez-vous Canada and the National Conference on Tourism (in many cases, these discounts alone more than offset the cost of membership)
• access to the members-only section of this website (set for launch in July 2003)
• voting rights at TIAC's Annual General Meeting and the right to stand for election to its Board of Directors.

Tourism Industry Association of Canada
803-130 Albert Street
Ottawa, Ontario  K1P 5G4
Telephone: 613-238-3883
Fax: 613-238-3878
E-mail: info@tiac-aitc.ca
Web site: http://www.tiac-aitc.ca/

Regional Tourism Associations
The various Regional Tourism Associations  promote the development of the tourism sector in their respective regions. They work closely with Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador (HNL) and the Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation.

Associations encouraging specific types of adventure tourism activities
Enthusiasts of various activities often form associations or clubs. These groups, which are usually run by local volunteers, are great for networking, and primarily support recreational (as opposed to commercial) outdoor activities. They may or may not be involved in lobbying governments or industry development. They may or may not work in conjunction with Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador and/or the provincial Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation. Here are examples of some of these associations (this is not a complete list):

• Canoe Newfoundland
• Kayak Newfoundland and Labrador (KNL)
• Newfoundland and Labrador Outfitters Association
• Snowmobile Federation
• Bicycle Newfoundland and Labrador (BNL)
• East Coast Trail Association (ECTA)        
• Natural History Society of Newfoundland and Labrador
• Newfoundland T'Railway Council
• MUN Botanical Garden
• Newfoundland and Labrador Campgrounds and Attractions Association
• Atlantic Salmon Federation
• Salmonid Association of Eastern Newfoundland (SAEN)
• The Protected Areas Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (PAA)
• Newfoundland and Labrador Wildlife Federation
• Newfoundland & Labrador Sailing Association
• Nordic/cross country ski clubs (several throughout the province).

Local Business Organizations
Many communities have business organizations which organize information sessions and networking opportunities for members. Some of these are listed below. You can also check the yellow pages of your telephone directory under either Business & Trade Organizations or Associations:

• Boards of Trade or Chambers of Commerce (check your telephone directory)
• NL Employers' Council
• Better Business Bureau of NL
• Canadian Federation of Independent Business

12.  Where can I find books, trade magazines and local sector studies?

Canada/Newfoundland & Labrador Business Service Centre
The following books, magazines and local sector studies relevant to the adventure tourism industry are a sample of the type of material available at the Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre.  We offer a free Books By Mail Service and an online library catalog.

Magazines
Tourism Times - some back issues available online through Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador (HNL)

Explore - Canada'a Outdoor Magazine - article abstracts available online.

Outdoor Canada

Outdoor Adventure Canada

Outpost Magazine

Books
Legal liability and risk management in adventure tourism
Author: Cloutier, Ross
Call number: G 155 .C3 C66 2000

The Business of Adventure
Author: Cloutier, Ross
Call number: G 155 .C56 1998

The business of ecotourism : the complete guide for nature and culture-based operations 
Author:  Patterson, Carol  
G 155 P37 1997

Gros Morne National Park visitor assessment 2004 : summary report
G 155 .C3 A84 2005

Activity-based tourism segments in Canada and the USA : an overview : a special analysis of the travel activities and motivation survey
G 155 .C3 R473 2003

Canadian hard outdoor adventure enthusiasts : a special analysis of the travel activities and motivation survey
G 155 .C3 R472 2003

Canadian soft outdoor adventure enthusiasts : a special analysis of the travel activities and motivation survey
G 155 .C3 C321 2003

Freshwater angling guide : workbook
HF 5381 H680 2002

Sea kayaking safety guide
G 155 .C3 S42 2003

Sport and adventure tourism
G 155 H821 2003

U.S. winter outdoor activity participants : a special analysis of the travel activities and motivation survey
G 155 .C3 R47 2003

Special interest tourism
Author: Douglas, Norman
Call number: G 155 D68 2001
 
Start and run a profitable tour guiding business : part-time, full-time, at home, or abroad , your step-by-step business plan.
Call number: G 155 B721 2000

Snow business: a study of the international ski industry.
Call number: G 155 H82 2000

Adventure travel and ecotourism best practices tour 2000 : leading Ontario and Quebec operators share their exemplary practices.
Call number: G 155 .C3 E36 2000

Demand for aboriginal tourism products in the Canadian and American markets.
Call number: G 155 R47 2001

Aboriginal cultural tourism : checklist for success; how to develop a successful cultural business.
Call number: E 78 A36 2002

Internet marketing for your tourism business: proven techniques for promoting tourist-based businesses over the Internet.
Call number: HF 5415 .125 S93 2000

Marketing and selling the travel product
Call number: G 155 B87 2000

Domestic and international travel to Canada : business outlook ; spring 2002.
Call number: G 155 .C3 C66 2002

Small Business BC
Canada/British Columbia Business Service Centre

Sector studies
The Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre maintains a database of local sector studies. Below is a list of some of the studies available on the adventure tourism industry. For a complete list of studies on adventure tourism, or other sectors, visit the Sector Studies Inventory (SSI) web site.

• Gros Morne National Park Visitor Assessment 2004 : Summary Report
• Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism Marketing Council : Strategic Marketing Plan : 2004-2008
• A Special Place, A Special People : The Future of Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism
• Newfoundland and Labrador Product Market Match Study - Volumes 1-18
  (Includes volumes on hiking; cultural and heritage tourism; nature tourism; canoeing and sea kayaking; scuba diving; sport fishing; winter adventure; expedition cruising; learning vacations; plus a guide on starting an adventure tourism business in Newfoundland and Labrador)
• A Needs Assessment to Identify the Management and Supervisory Training Needs of Tourism Operators in Newfoundland and Labrador
• Adventure Travel and Ecotourism in Canada: Framework for Development
• Adventure Travel & Ecotourism: The Challenge Ahead
• An Adventure Tourism Strategy for Newfoundland and Labrador: Executive Summary and List of Recommendations
• Newfoundland and Labrador Snowmobile Tourism and Recreation Strategy : Final Report Recreational Marine Activities and Marina Development Study
• The Newfoundland T'Railway : Resource Assessment and Opportunity Analysis

Canada Tourism Commission
On the Commission's Web site, you will find numerous reports featuring trends, statistics, and best practices for tourism operators. The CTC has also just published a series of six guides on financial management (see question 16 below).

13.  Are there trade shows I can attend?

CNLBSC - Events Calendar
Our Centre maintains an Events Calendar with an extensive listing of local trade shows and business events. Our Events Calendar is also interactive, allowing you to add your own events!

Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador (HNL)
HNL also maintains an events calendar, featuring:

• HNL's Annual Convention and Trade Show
• Tourism Awareness Month (each May)
• Annual Golf Classic tournament
• Annual Fall Meeting.

Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation (TCR)
The department has annual publication called Marketing Plan and Partnership Opportunities, which outlines upcoming trade shows, trade missions, and marketing activities that the Department will be involved in.

Tourism Industry Association of Canada  (TIAC)
TIAC has a calender on their web site, and also sponsors events such as:

• Canada's Tourism Leadership Summit
• Rendez-vous Canada
• Talking with TIAC Forums

Canada/Newfoundland & Labrador Business Service Centre
Finally, the CNLBSC purchases directories that contain listings of additional trade shows that may be of interest, such as those listed below. For the latest dates and locations, contact the Business Service Centre at 1-800-668-1010.

• Coors Light Outdoor Adventure Show
• Canadian Hunting & Shooting Sports & Outdoor Trade Show
• Expo Cycle - Canada's Bike Trade Show
• Hunting & Outdoor Show
• National Outfitter's Hunting & Fishing Show
• NSIA Snow Show
• Ottawa Paddlesport & Outdoor Adventure Show
• Outfitter's & Great Outdoor Show - Chicoutini
• Toronto International Bicycle Show
• Toronto International Snowmobile Show
• Toronto Ski, Snowboard & Travel Show
• Underwater Canada

14.  Where can I get training?

College of the North Atlantic (CONA)
The College offers a 2-year diploma course in Adventure Tourism - Outdoor Recreation at their Corner Brook campus.

Gros Morne Institute for Sustainable Tourism (GMIST)
GMIST offers the following programs:

• Canadian Avalanche Association Recreational Avalanche Course
• Edge of the Wedge: Innovation in Experiential Learning
• Edge of the Wedge: Innovation in Experiential Learning for Signature Attractions of Atlantic Canada
• Greening Your Business - Improving Your Bottom Line ... and Your Community
• Legal Liability and Risk Management for Tourism, Hospitality & Adventure Tourism
• Snowmobile Safety, Ethics and Winter Interpretation
• Sustainable Tourism: Good for Business and Community.

Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador (HNL)
HNL represents private sector tourism operators in Newfoundland and Labrador. HNL members can avail of training support such as business recogniton programs, professional certification, seminars and workshops, and more.

Newfoundland and Labrador WorkinfoNet (NLWIN)
Residents of Newfoundland and Labrador can call toll free 1-800-563-6600 (729-6600 in St. John's local calling area) to obtain career and work search information. The Web site offers the latest in provincial career and employment information and offers links to national and international resources. There are also Career Information Resource Centres throughout the Province.

15.  What do I need to know about legal liability, risk management and insurance

Adventure Tourism Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (ATANL)
(part of Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador)

To be eligible for membership in ATANL as a voting member, you must meet three basic requirements:

• you must have coverage for your employees from the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission (WHSCC)
• you must have public liability Insurance
• members plus guides (those actually guiding groups) must have valid Wilderness First Aid (16 hrs) and CPR certificates.

Book: Legal Liability and Risk Management in Adventure Tourism
By:  Ross Cloutier; Daniel Garvey; Will Leverette; James Moss; Gilles Valade

Exposure to liability, and the need to practice risk management are realities inherent in the activities of adventure businesses. Adventure operators need to understand the various elements of these realities and the interactions between them in order to provide professional programs that are safe as possible for their participants and for the adventure companies themselves.

Copies of this book are available for loan from the Canada/Newfoundland & Labrador Business Service Centre , or you can purchase the book through Bhudak Consultants

Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC)

Database of Insurance Service Providers for Adventure and Ecotourism Operators
The Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC) developed this database to assist adventure and ecotourism operators access insurance. The database is current as of December 2002 and contains information supplied by insurance service providers. There are 3 companies listed for Newfoundland and Labrador:

• Cal LeGrow Insurance Limited
• Sunco Insurance
• Wedgewood Insurance Limited

Know the Regulations

16.  What government departments or agencies do I need to contact?

For information on general business regulations, such as incorporation, taxation, labour standards, insurance, and intellectual property, see our  Business Start-Up Info-Guide .

Town or City Council Office
Municipal governments have varying requirements regarding the operation of businesses within their town/city boundaries.  Your local municipality should be consulted on such matters as:

• zoning regulations
• construction or renovation of buildings
• operation of a homebased business
• business taxation.

Department of Environment and Conservation
This Department is responsible for a number of Acts aimed at protecting natural areas and wild life, such as the:

• Endangered Species Act
• National Parks Lands Act
• Provincial Parks Act
• Wilderness and Ecological Reserves Act
• Wildlife Act

Licenses may be required if you are taking participants into protected areas (e.g. parks or wilderness reserves), or featuring wild life in your adventures (e.g. ocean kayaking and whale watching).  If you are involved in angling or hunting, you will need the apporpriate fishing/hunting licenses (e.g. moose; bear; small game; salmon). You will also need an Outdoor Identification Card indicating that you have taken a firearm safety/hunter education course.

Newfoundland Department of Environment and Conservation
4th Floor, West Block
Confederation Building
P.O. Box 8700
St. John's, Newfoundland & Labrador  A1B 4J6
Telephone: 709-729-2664
Fax: 709-729-6639
Toll-free (information): 1-800-563-6181
Web site: http://www.env.gov.nl.ca/env/

Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation (TCR)

The Tourist Establishment Act primarily includes accommodations such as cottages, hotels, and bed and breakfasts; however, the Act also applies to tour companies, tent camps or other premises erected or used for the purpose of catering to hunters and sport fishers and a boat on which food and overnight accommodation is provided for hunters, sport fishers or travel parties.

As well, the Department, in conjunction with the Adventure Tourism Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (ATANL) is working on certification and standards for adventure tourism businesses (e.g. how much first aid and wilderness survival training adventure tourism operators should have).

TCR - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Transport Canada - Office of Boating Safety

The Office of Boating Safety is Transport Canada's focal point for the recreational boating community. The Frequently Asked Questions section of their web site covers topics such as:

• Operator competency
• Safety compliance notices
• Pleasure craft licensing.

Their publication The Safe Boating Guide has safety information regarding sailboards, paddleboats and watercycles, canoes, kayaks, rowboats and rowing shells, personal watercraft, unpowered and powered pleasure craft.  They have also recently published a video and a Sea Kayaking Safety Guide which has a section specific to Newfoundland and Labrador. Transport Canada
330 Sparks Street, 11th Floor
Ottawa, Ontario  E1C 8K6
Telephone:  
Fax: 613-991-4818
Toll-free (information): 1-800-267-6687
TTY Toll-free (hearing impaired):  
E-mail: obs-bsn@tc.gc.ca
Web site: http://www.tc.gc.ca/BoatingSafety/menu.htm

Transport Canada
330 Sparks Street, 11th Floor
Ottawa, Ontario  E1C 8K6
Telephone:  
Fax: 613-991-4818
Toll-free (information): 1-800-267-6687
TTY Toll-free (hearing impaired):  
E-mail: obs-bsn@tc.gc.ca
Web site: http://www.tc.gc.ca/BoatingSafety/menu.htm

Newfoundland Region
Transport Canada
Tower 2, Cabot Place
10 Barter's Hill
P.O. Box 1300
St. John's, Newfoundland & Labrador  A1C 6H8
Telephone: (709) 772-5166
Fax: (709) 772-0210

Government Service Centres
The GSC processes permits, licences, approvals and conducts inspections and investigations on behalf of a number of line departments. Whether you are home based or operating your business from a separate location, you should contact the Centre nearest you to ask what regulations may apply. Listed below are some of the services offered by the Government Service Centre:

• Approval of Highway Signage
• Building Accessibility Approval/Exemption for Public Buildings
• Commercial and private Septic System Approvals and Authorizations
• Commercial Building Plan Approvals
• Crown land (permits for access to/use of crown land - in conjunction with Dept. of Tourism, Culture and Recreation)
• Electrical Permits and Inspections
• Elevator Inspections and Approvals
• Food Establishment Licensing
• Fuel Storage and Handling Approvals
• Liquor Licensing
• Meat Inspections
• Propane System Licensing and Inspections
• Waste Management System Approvals
• Water Supply Testing.

GSC - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission (WHSCC)
The Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Act requires that all employers performing work in this province register with the Commission.  Additionally, adventure tourism operators are required to take a St. John Ambulance First Aid course in order to be covered by WHSCC.

WHSCC - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Finance Your Business

17.  How do I prepare before approaching lenders?

Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC)

1. Finding funding : ten steps to meet your financial needs
(see section of CTC's web site on Industry Relations )

This guide is designed for tourism operators whose businesses require financing and who would like assistance in approaching a loaning institution or agency. It is a stand-alone document, but also a companion piece to six other guides and financial planning spreadsheets published by the Canadian TourismCommission.

2. The ABC's of financial performance measures and benchmarks for Canada's tourism sector
(see section of CTC's web site on Tourism Research )

These six financial planning guides were written for tourism operators who have little or no experience in the area of finance. These guides can be used as reference documents for those who wish to better understand the language of accounting and finance, maximize the utilization of the financial planning spreadsheet, and discuss, with more self-assurance, their financial plans with investors.

• Guide 1:  Financial planning : key to maximizing your bottom line
• Guide 2:  Profiting from your financial statements
• Guide 3:  Financial planning measures and benchmarks for Canada's tourism operators
• Guide 4:  Decision-making tools for Canada's tourism operators
• Guide 5:  Linking your financial performance measures to your business plan
• Guide 6:  Industry financial averages and benchmarks for Canada's tourism operators.

18.  What government assistance is available to me?

(Back to table of contents)

Please note that this alphabetical list is provided to help adventure tourism operators focus on a few relevant programs rather than have to review an exhaustive list of programs available to entrepreneurs. The Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre has no role in determining who will receive assistance under any of these programs.

Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
- counselling service
-  Business Development Program

ACOA - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Business Development Bank of Canada
- consulting service
-  Co-Vision - Start-up Financing Solution
-  Growth Capital for Aboriginal Business

BDC - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Canada Tourism Commission
- Product Clubs
- Winter product development
- Packaging and product development
- Industry performance profiles
- Database of Insurance Service Providers for Adventure and Ecotourism Operators

Mr. Frank Verschuren
Canadian Tourism Commission
55 Metcalfe Street
Ottawa, Ontario  K1P 6L5
Telephone: (613) 946-2122
E-mail: verschuren.frank@ctc-cct.ca
Web site: http://www.canadatourism.com/ctx/app/en/ca/home.do

Department of Human Resources, Labour and Employment (HRLE)
- Graduate Employment Program
- Linkages
- NL Works
- Student Work and Service Program(SWASP)
- Student Employment Program
- Seasonal Employment Program

HRLE - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development (INTRD)
- small business counselling service
- Small Business and Market Development Program

INTRD - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation (TCR)
- Consulting services
- Marketing assistance
- Statistics; studies; trends
- Partnering and industry development:

• e.g. Adventure Tourism Marketing Cooperative ¦ http://www.guidetoadventures.com/
• e.g. Newfoundland and Labrador Marketing Council

TCR - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Industry Canada (IC)
-  Aboriginal Business Canada

19.  What other agencies offer assistance?

(Back to table of contents)

Please note that this alphabetical list is provided to help adventure tourism operators focus on a few relevant programs rather than have to review an exhaustive list of programs available to entrepreneurs. The Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre has no role in determining who will receive assistance under any of these programs.

Canadian Youth Business Foundation
-  CYBF Loan Program

Community Business Development Corporations
- Financial Assistance Program
- Self Employment Benefits Program
- SEED Capital Program
- business counselling
- other programs (eg. bridge financing; micro loans up to $5,000; training; technical assistance; business plans; financial planning and counselling; export readiness and supplier development)

CBDC - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Newfoundland and Labrador Organization of Women Entrepreneurs (NLOWE)
- services to women entrepreneurs at all stages of business development
- Women in Business Initiative (in conjunction with ACOA)

NLOWE - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Banks and Credit Unions
All major banks and credit unions offer small business loans and have a wealth of business information available on their Web sites. Listed below are links to the major financial institutions operating in Newfoundland and Labrador:

• BMO - Business Banking
• CIBC - Business Banking
• HSBC - Business Banking
• NL Credit Union - Business Banking
• RBC - Business Banking
• Scotiabank - Business Banking
• TD Commercial Banking

***From the Interactive Business Planner (IBP)

DISCLAIMER
Information contained in this document is of a general nature only and is not intended to constitute advice for any specific fact situation. Users concerned about the reliability of the information should consult directly with the source, or seek legal counsel.

Links Policy
Some of the hypertext links lead to non-federal government sites which are not subject to the Official Languages Act and the material is available in one language only.