Government of Canada announces support to boost tourism in Eastern PEI

Rural tourism operators receive funding to expand accommodations, improve services, and modernize facilities

June 23, 2026 · Three Rivers, Prince Edward Island · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) 

Today, Kent MacDonald, Member of Parliament for Cardigan, announced federal investments totaling more than $1.5 million to support three tourism businesses in Eastern PEI. The investments will help the following operators to expand and modernize facilities, offer more year-round accommodations, and enhance guest experiences:

• Rodd Brudenell River Resort will modernize its guest accommodations and enhance guest experience with upgraded wellness and recreational facilities ($804,345).
• Oyster Creek Chalets will expand its operations with the addition of 8 new high-end chalets to its four-season rural tourism accommodation ($400,000).
• 45 Steps - the Culinary Beachside Inn will expand its operations with the addition of a guest room and a separate building to help with back-of-house inn operations ($301,942).

These investments will boost the region’s appeal as a tourism destination, contributing to the growth of the local economy and the broader tourism sector in Atlantic Canada.

Today’s announcement further demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to supporting a dynamic and resilient tourism sector in Atlantic Canada.

The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.

Quotes

“Investments like these strengthen our communities by supporting local businesses, broadening experiences in the tourism sector, and ensuring Atlantic Canada remains a destination of choice for visitors from across Canada and the world.”

-   The Honourable Sean Fraser, P.C., K.C., Member of Parliament for Central Nova, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

“These projects will help Eastern PEI to welcome more visitors and offer them even better experiences on Prince Edward Island. By supporting our tourism operators, we’re building a stronger local economy and more vibrant communities for everyone.”

- Kent MacDonald, Member of Parliament for Cardigan 

“Our ongoing investments are transforming the resort into an even stronger year-round destination. The addition of new outdoor wellness amenities, along with significant upgrades to guest accommodations, dining, and recreational facilities, reflects our ongoing commitment to elevating the guest experience. These investments will help us attract more visitors year-round and contribute to the continued growth of tourism in the region.”

- Ricardo Salvini, Vice President of Operations for Rodd Hotels & Resorts

Quick facts

• One of the PEI’s most popular golf destinations, and located in Brudenell Provincial Park, Rodd Brudenell River Resort features a hotel with 67 standard guest rooms, 18 junior suites, and 14 larger hospitality-type suites, as well as 8 cottages.

• Oyster Creek Chalets are modern, newly constructed vacation homes located on St. Mary’s Bay.

• 45 Steps – The Culinary Beachside Inn, is a 5‑star boutique hotel located in Goose River, Prince Edward Island, Canada, just 45 steps from the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

• The funding announced today is provided through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s (ACOA) Regional Economic Growth through Innovation program.