The Cree Outfitting and Tourism Association (COTA) is an association of outfitters and other Crees involved in tourism. COTA was founded in December 2000. The mission of COTA is to develop and implement a sustainable, world-class tourist industry that is respectful of Cree values and culture. COTA offers assistance to Crees wishing to start companies to work in the tourist industry. In 2001-2002, COTA set up a databank of all Cree tourist facilities and tourist-industry companies. COTA wants to become known in the communities and to stimulate interest among young people for jobs in the tourist industry.