Promoting the region and its tourism stakeholders since 1976. 
About Superior Country
Ontario’s Superior Country is a local non-profit destination marketing organization that has been dedicated to promoting tourism in the region (13C) since its incorporation in 1976. Governed by a board of directors, the organization plays a crucial role in advocating for the marketing and promotional needs of tourism stakeholders across Northwestern Ontario. As a grassroots organization, Ontario’s Superior Country is uniquely positioned to represent the interests of local businesses, communities, and tourism operators, ensuring that their voices are heard at the provincial level. Its long-standing presence and commitment to regional tourism make it an essential partner in driving economic growth, fostering collaboration, and enhancing the tourism experience for both visitors and residents.
Importantly, Ontario’s Superior Country does not receive operational funding from government sources. Instead, the organization relies on the revenues generated through its memberships, advertising sales, and service sales to remain sustainable. This business model ensures that the organization remains independent and directly accountable to its stakeholders, allowing it to continue its work without relying on external funding, while actively supporting the growth and development of the region’s tourism industry.
Ontario’s Superior Country promotes the region through four key product pillars: Fish & Hunt, Touring, Nature & Adventure, and Culture & Heritage. These pillars help to define the unique offerings of the region and provide a framework for marketing and promotional efforts. By aligning with these pillars, the organization strengthens its ability to partner with the provincial government, ensuring that its initiatives are well-integrated with broader tourism strategies across Ontario. This alignment allows Ontario’s Superior Country to effectively showcase the region’s diverse attractions while leveraging provincial resources and support to enhance its marketing reach.
Mission & Vision
Mission
Superior Country builds and sustains a world class tourism destination for visitors by marketing the region, fostering relationships with members, and collaborating with partners.
Vision
To increase visitation to the region by being a leader in the tourism industry with innovative approaches that allow for heightened awareness about superior products and experiences.
Superior Country Team
Dan Bevilacqua
Executive Director & President
Dan has served as the Executive Director of Superior Country since November of 2014. He is widely known for his passion and love for the region. Dan works tremendously hard to ensure that tourism stakeholders within the
Superior Country region are well represented, advertised, and flourish as Superior Country members. In his free time Dan can be found camping throughout the region and fishing salmon from the Nipigon River. Bevilacqua came to the organization with an extensive background in marketing, customer services, multi-media, and sales.
Suzanne Kukko
Northshore Tourism Coordinator
Suzanne has been part of the Superior Country team since 2020. Hired under the Lake Superior North Shore Tourism (LSNST) Project, her main responsibility has been to oversee the implementation of the LSNST Strategy which was developed in 2018 via Destination Northern Ontario and Parks Canada. Born and raised in Thunder Bay, Suzanne relocated to Nipigon in 2006. Spending most of her spare time enjoying the outdoors, in the summer months she can be found hiking area trails, indulging her blueberry-picking obsession, and enjoying walks and runs around town. In the winter, she’s out on the local and regional cross country ski trails with her friends and family.
Vicki Banning
Executive Assistant
Vicki has been the Executive Assistant for Superior Country since 2018. With a professional background rooted in tourism, accommodations, and customer service, she has been beneficial in her role. Born and raised in Nipigon, Vicki brings a profound understanding and appreciation of the region. She plays a key role in the day-to-day operations of the organization. Her contributions have been pivotal in several major projects, including the development of the Lake Superior Circle Tour website and mobile app.
Amber Gionet
Marketing Assistant
Amber joined Superior Country in 2025 as the Marketing Assistant. With a strong background in Graphic Design, she brings a creative edge to the team. Growing up in a quaint Northwestern town, Amber developed a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of the North Shore. In her free time, she enjoys exploring nearby trails, capturing the scenic views of Lake Superior through her camera lens, and cherishing quality moments with friends and family. Amber’s creativity and passion for the North Shore make her an invaluable addition to the Superior Country team.
