Tourism provides the most potential for economic growth in Teslin. The community could expand existing tourism activities by providing more services locally.
Otherwise the Teslin area offers limited employment, and there is a considerable need to develop long-term opportunities, particularly for First Nations people. The Teslin Tlingit Council plans to assist small businesses in order to increase employment. The TTC sees particular potential in tourism and has already ventured into the field. The First Nation owns and operates the largest local outfitting business. Cultural activities and arts and crafts production already exist in Teslin. They could be developed further, expanding the amount and range of products for sale. Increased markets would encourage people to base their work in Teslin.
The Marlin open-pit rhodonite mine is a small producer in the Teslin area. Rhodonite is a pink semi-precious mineral used for jewelry and small carvings. Additional tourism in the Teslin area would create more employment opportunities in accommodation and food services. Further tourism activities could be developed through using local knowledge, especially in areas such as fishing locations and bird habitat. More visitors might also be attracted by arts and cultural and traditional activities and displays. Local people will need skills that allow them to start up and run small businesses. Communication skills are also very important for most tourism, especially anything that builds on cultural and traditional areas.
