Xá:ytem has been operating as a First Nations cultural and education centre and tourism attraction since 1993 offering fully-guided interactive experiential tours, workshops, gift gallery and facility rental.

Xá:ytem received business plan coaching and a grant from the Social Enterprise Fund in April 2007. These funds were used to complete expansion of the Artisan Center to make it ready to act as a venue for artists and for the arts program. The funds were also used to design and produce self-guided interpretive signage. These activities are anticipated to increase the number of visitors to the centre, diversify revenue by creating a space for art classes and workshops, retain those visitors who do not wish a full-guided tour, increase gallery sales, and create a space for First Nation artists to showcase their work.

It is too soon to see the results of the social enterprise grant. However, between 2004 and 2006, revenues increased at an annual growth rate of approximately 17%.

The Xá:ytem Centre attracts more than 15,000 visitors annually, 11,000 of which are students. More than 120 First Nations People have taken advantage of the job-ready, transferable skills and training programs in tour guiding, marketing, volunteer coordinating, construction, retail management, grounds keeping, administration, and special event planning.

http://www.xaytem.ca