In August 2020, the Department of ITI, in partnership with the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor), launched the Growth and Recovery by Investing in Tourism (GRIT) Fund to help tourism-focused operators and organizations in the NWT deal with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and adapt and position their operations for future growth.
These are their stories…
The Snowking’s’ castle looked very different this spring. The jewel in Yellowknife’s winter festival crown was one of many tourism activities that had to deal with the impacts of COVID-19.
The challenges and limitations presented by the pandemic meant the Snowking and his crew had to explore different options. The team took the opportunity to experiment with ideas they probably wouldn’t have otherwise to see how they could accommodate their customers while complying with public health measures.
Photo : Artless Collective
The support received from GRIT funding as well as local sponsors allowed the Society to try out new ideas.
Rules for social distancing, for example, meant that the structure of Yellowknife’s famed snow castle had to be reshaped. The limit on indoor gatherings meant the loss of the great hall.
But when a great hall closes, a courtyard opens; and the enhancements of the courtyard made the castle the biggest it has ever been. The open space allowed for new attractions and games to be introduced to the programming - like having three slides instead of just one.
Organizers also decided to make admission to the snow castle free this year, but then had to find alternative ways to recover that income. The result was a more diverse merchandise line with sales confirming that it is a viable revenue alternative for the future.
Bill Braden Photography
The Society says they like to keep a free extended courtyard during the day next year; and along with the popular merchandise, bring back live entertainment and paid admission to the great hall in the evenings.
The 2022 Snow Castle will be better than ever thanks in part to changes made possible by the GNWT’s GRIT fund.
The GRIT Fund was both increased and extended before closing in October, 2020. More than 90 individuals and companies have received contributions designed to adapt and position their operations for the future
– Braeden Cordero