In conversation with Geoff Gillon, Regional Economic Developer, Rainy River Future Development Corporation

Q. Why would tourism investors be attracted to Northwestern Ontario?

A. Northwestern Ontario includes one of the world’s last untouched wilderness areas. It’s huge and it’s almost indescribably beautiful, with ancient boreal forests, towering granite cliffs, majestic waterfalls and thousands and thousands of clear lakes. It’s quiet, serene, full of fish, animals and birds. It’s an outdoor enthusiasts paradise. And it’s accessible by air and road. Up until now, though, it’s been largely undiscovered by the international tourism investment community.

Q. What types of investors are you looking for?

A. To date, investment has been about 50-50 Canadian and American. Both groups have been very successful because they’ve been able to tap into their respective markets. We think the time is right for European and Asian investors to come in. After all, sophisticated European and Asian travelers are looking for the next big adventure – and that’s us.

Q. What are the opportunities with the greatest potential?

A. Northwestern Ontario offers a niche type of tourism investment. Traditionally, investment here has focused on the fishing experience – we’ve got a number of 4 and 5-star lodges like Totem Resorts, Evergreen Lodge and Temple Bay Lodge as well as fly-in camps like Kabeelo Lodge that are built around it – and the fishing here is amazing.

But now we’re looking for investors who are interested in branching out and developing more of the wilderness experience – the kayaking, canoeing, hiking, climbing, even bird watching and other eco adventures like dive and cruise experiences – that offers travelers “comfort in the wilderness”.

Q. What are the challenges for investors?

A. One challenge is that the majority of the land here is Crown land, which means it’s difficult to develop. But there are lots of existing properties that could be purchased and transformed into upscale wilderness locations.

We’ve also got a short summer season, but enterprising entrepreneurs can overcome that by developing winter offerings like ice fishing, dog sledding, snowmobiling and ice climbing.

For more information on tourism investment opportunities throughout Ontario, please visit: www.investinontario.com/tourism/regionalinvest.asp.