News & Resources
The latest Thompson Okanagan tourism industry news from TOTA, tourism businesses, and communities.
Tourism Marketing Committee: Call for Applications 2025-2027 Term
Destination BC is seeking representatives for its Tourism Marketing Committee (TMC) beginning on January 1, 2025.
Destination BC is seeking representatives for its Tourism Marketing Committee (TMC) beginning on January 1, 2025.
There is one available, three-year term position in the Thompson Okanagan, running until December 31, 2027.
Interested applicants should possess the following experience and skills, to complement those of the current members:
Understanding of the tourism industry, its issues, trends, and opportunities.
Experience with destination marketing on a global, national, and/or provincial scale demonstrating a thorough understanding of the tourism industry.
Experience with destination management with a focus on industry development/training, cooperative programming, sustainable tourism development, visitor management strategies, resident engagement and familiarity with provincial, regional, or local destination development strategies.
Plus, at least one of the following, as an area of specific expertise:
Sector knowledge – representative of one of our 2025 priority industry or experience sectors or stakeholders including wine, culinary, golf, fishing, camping, transportation, etc.
An owner/operator/senior manager of a tourism business based in BC.
Learn more about the TMC and read the full Terms of Reference.
Visit the TMC homepage for more information.
Registration for BCTCRI Project 4 is Now Open - Climate Resilience and Indigenous Knowledge
Registration is now open for the third BC Tourism Project Four Workshop: Regenerative Tourism & Systems Thinking Workshop.
Date: July 17 - Virtual
Time: 10:00 am
The workshop will cover the key. oncepts of regenerative tourism and systems thinking, their. relationships to climate change, and their importance when it comes to developing regenerative tourism.
The Community Destination Stewardship Initiative's Project 4, Climate Resilience and Indigenous Knowledge, aims to create a provincial network across BC to enhance climate resiliency and sustainability in community destinations and the broader tourism industry. The program provides comprehensive learning opportunities through workshops, discussions, and peer-to-peer engagements, offering essential knowledge and tools. It emphasizes sharing successes and lessons learned to promote collaborative growth and connects communities to resources, programs, and initiatives supporting sustainable business practices and community engagement.
This initiative helps advance BC’s sustainable tourism development by equipping communities to adopt sustainable practices, support local businesses in climate emergency preparedness, and reduce impacts from extreme weather events. Participants can join workshops on topics such as Climate Resilience, Sustainable Tourism, and Decarbonization, that you can choose to join based on your community’s needs. The program is available in various formats to accommodate different schedules, and encourages networking with other communities to exchange successes and practical solutions for sustainability challenges.
Eligible Participants for Joining the Destination Stewardship Network:
Any community or community organization that manages visitors as a destination
BC-based Community Destination Management Organizations (CDMOs)
Municipal government staff
First Nations and First Nation Economic Development Corporations
Communities with any level of experience in managing climate change resiliency, adaptation, mitigation, or sustainability in tourism are encouraged to participate, regardless of their experience level
Learn more about the course at www.destinationbc.ca
Working with the Travel Trade: Six-Part Tutorial Video Series
DBC has developed a 6-part video series based on the previously written Working with the Travel Trade Guide.
DBC has developed a 6-part video series based on the previously written Working with the Travel Trade Guide,
These tutorial videos will help tourism businesses determine whether working with the travel trade is right for them, provide guidance on how to work with travel trade, and how local and regional Destination Management Organizations can help.
Destination BC’s Tourism Industry Webinar
Destination BC invites you to join them on Thursday, August 1st at 10:00 am (PDT).
Destination BC invites you to join them on Thursday, August 1st at 10:00 am (PDT) for an update on the state of tourism in BC and the latest on their key strategies and programs.
DBC will include updates on their latest marketing campaigns, travel trade and media relations, destination development projects, and more followed by a Q&A session.
Destination Development Case Studies
Destination development case studies showcase the positive impact of tourism's social, cultural, and economic advantages through destination development initiatives.
Destination BC has put together 12 case studies that showcase the positive impact of tourism's social, cultural, and economic advantages through destination development initiatives.
Read the case study about how Larch Hills Nordic Society and Overlander Ski Club have improved trails and added lighting to bring in more people to cross-country ski at night.
Read the case study about how Big White Ski Resort, SilverStar Mountain Resort, and Sun Peaks Resort answered the demand for more accessible mountain bike infrastructure.
Partnership Opportunities: 2024-25 Resident Perceptions of Tourism Research Survey
There are partnership opportunities available for Regional and City Destination Management Organizations in BC to better understand how residents view tourism in their communities.
There are partnership opportunities available for Regional and City Destination Management Organizations in BC to better understand how residents view tourism in their communities.
RDMOs and CDMOs can contact DBC’s research and analytics team leads to confirm their participation and get more information on the following partnership opportunities.
Learn more about partnership opportunities and contact information at DestinationBC.ca
Destination BC & Wine Growers BC Experiences: Sip, Smile, and Stay Awhile
Ten wineries across the province have developed completely new wine tourism experiences as part of the Cultivating Experiences: Elevating BC Wine Tourism program.
Ten wineries across the province have developed completely new wine tourism experiences as part of the Cultivating Experiences: Elevating BC Wine Tourism program. Working with Wine Growers British Columbia and Destination BC in partnership with Firecircle, and supported by Pacific Economic Development Canada (PacifiCan), the wineries have been hard at work over the past few months with the goal of bringing their offerings from vision to market this summer.
The Cultivating Experiences program represents Wine Growers BC and Destination BC’s united effort to promote the province as a destination for incredible tourism experiences.
The program provided virtual workshops, valuable market research, and mentorship for each participant winery to ultimately launch a unique wine tourism experience. These Cultivating Experiences winery offerings are the latest added to the plethora of options available to those exploring BC wine country this summer:
Monte Creek Winery, Thompson Valley, Long Table Dinner Series
Maverick Estate Winery, Okanagan Valley, Intimate Dinner Series
Mythology Vineyards, Okanagan Valley, Sip, Savour & Create Mediterranean Experience, launching soon
Joie Farm Winery, Naramata Bench, Aikin’s Walk the Loop Tour Experiences, launching soon
Da Silva Vineyards & Winery, Naramata Bench, Terroir Sessions
Township7 Vineyards and Winery, Fraser Valley & Naramata Bench, Saber & Sip: The Art of Sabrage at both locations
Bartier Bros. Vineyard & Winery, South Okanagan Valley, Flavour, Texture & Time
Blue Grouse Estate Winery, Vancouver Island, A Sparkling Day in Cowichan
Unsworth Vineyards, Vancouver Island, A Sparkling Day in Cowichan
Culmina Family Estate Winery, Okanagan Valley, Wine & Art event
Destination BC Co-op Tourism Marketing Partnerships and Thompson Okanagan Travel Resources
Destination BC (DBC) announced $4.38M in funding to help partners drive consumer demand, educate visitors on responsible travel practices, and increase tourism revenues in communities through destination and activity sector marketing initiatives across the province, including in the Thompson Okanagan.
Destination BC (DBC) announced $4.38M in funding to help partners drive consumer demand, educate visitors on responsible travel practices, and increase tourism revenues in communities through destination and activity sector marketing initiatives across the province.
The Co-operative Marketing Partnerships Program invests resources into marketing that supports responsible, short-haul visitation in more seasons, and more areas of the province. This year, the program expanded its initiative eligibility criteria to include visitor education marketing, emphasizing Destination BC’s – and the BC tourism industry’s – commitment to responsible tourism.
Thompson Okanagan projects include:
The communities of Vernon, Lumby, the Okanagan Indian Band, and Destination Silver Star are embodying the spirit of the Co-op program for their latest venture, collaborating this year to create Explore North Okanagan. This new collective, led by Destination Silver Star, aims to create a cohesive way to move all travellers throughout the region, create educational messaging around minimizing impacts to communities and nature, and share the living history and stories of local Indigenous cultures.
Led by the Fishing Highway Tourism Association and partnered with Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association, Tourism Wells Gray, and Tourism Kamloops, Land of Hidden Waters promotes the unique beauty, natural wonders and road trip experiences along the corridor and connectors of Hwy 25, Hwy 5, Hwy 97, and Wells Gray Park. With a focus on sustainable travel, freshwater experiences are now more accessible than ever with EV road trip itineraries that include practical tips such as charging station locations, charging etiquette, and places to stay along the way.
As well as:
Sector projects include:
The BC Ale Trail’s immersive self-guided experiences for foodies, adventurers, and nature lovers provides beer enthusiasts with over 225 breweries to discover across the province in all seasons. A visit to the BC Ale Tail website provides travellers with information on different regions, food and beverage offers, and experiences, as well as a link to download the BC Ale Trail mobile app, which highlights partner liquor stores, tap houses, sip & stays, tours, Visitor Centres, attractions, and more.
The Fishing BC marketing initiative brings together the fresh and saltwater fishing sectors under one provincial collaborative marketing effort to get more anglers fishing in BC. A visit to the Fishing BC website takes travellers through a broad range of year-round fishing experiences destinations across BC. They have raised awareness of fishing opportunities for people with mobility challenges, and this year, the sector will also create visitor education marketing campaigns that promote safe, respectful, and sustainable use of resources, including boat and river safety.
As well as:
A notable example related to sustainable tourism:
Now in its second year, Don’t Love it to Death has become a leader in visitor education marketing. Through social ads, videos, ambassador partnerships, community installations, and more, it aims to educate residents and visitors in the Sea-to-Sky corridor to be mindful of the impact they can have, providing tips and tongue-in-cheek calls to action for responsible outdoor recreation. The Co-op initiative is led by Tourism Whistler, with partners Tourism Squamish, Vancouver’s North Shore Tourism Association, Discover Surrey, Sunshine Coast Tourism, Tourism Abbotsford, Tourism Burnaby, Tourism Pemberton, Tourism Hope, Cascades & Canyons, and Tourism Harrison River Valley.
For more information, see the Destination BC announcement.
Emergency Preparedness Week Resources (May 5-11, 2024)
Emergency Preparedness Week is May 5 to 11 in 2024, and is a great time to learn about getting prepared for emergencies, such as reviewing the updated resources from the Province of BC and Destination BC.
May 5-11, 2024 is Emergency Preparedness Week in BC, and it's a great time for individuals and businesses to learn about getting prepared for emergencies.
The Province has a wealth of resources available including;
Using technology in emergency management
Knowing the hazards in your community, using the PreparedBC Hazard Map
How to make an emergency plan
Throughout the week, Destination BC will be highlighting the Tourism Emergency Management Committee's (TEMC) work, messaging and resources through their newsletter, website, and LinkedIn, under the slogan “Prepare and Share”.
Here are a couple of examples:
Updated emergency messaging guide, infographics, and resources for industry
New and updated Infographics (in the TEMC’s public Google Hub)
Reminders to create crisis comms plans (TEMC comms guidance and check-lists)
Suggested emergency apps/platforms: Alertable, BC Wildfire, Drive BC etc.
Also to note, as part of Emergency Preparedness Week, an emergency alert test will be issued to cellphones, television and radio at 10:55 am (PT) on Wednesday, May 8.
The test alert will go to all compatible cellphones, and will interrupt radio and television broadcasts. This test will assess the system’s readiness for an actual emergency and identify any required adjustments.
2023 Resident Perceptions of BC's Tourism Industry Report by Destination BC
Destination BC released a on report on the 2023 Resident Perceptions of BC’s Tourism Industry survey, launched in November 2023 to understand the perceptions BC residents have of the tourism industry on both community and provincial levels. The survey found that the majority of BC residents continue to value the impact that tourism has on their communities.
Destination BC released the results from the 2023 Resident Perceptions of BC’s Tourism Industry survey. The survey was launched in November 2023 to understand the perceptions BC residents have of the tourism industry on both community and provincial levels.
Some key highlights noted in the announcement include:
The majority of BC residents continue to value the impact that tourism has on their communities.
A large percentage agree that tourism supports a greater diversity of amenities (78%), contributes positively to the quality of life of their community (72%), and its positive impacts in their community outweigh the negative ones (75%).
Residents take pride in making visitors feel welcome (75%) and a strong majority agree their community is a desirable place to visit (79%).
Province-wide, residents are more likely to support tourism growth during winter (December-February), followed by fall (September-November), and then spring (March-May).
New Grant and Mentorship Program to "Spark" Innovative Tourism Ideas Along Rainforest to Rockies Iconic Route | Apply by March 1
A new program aimed at sparking and supporting innovative tourism ideas along the Rainforest to Rockies iconic route across southern British Columbia was announced by Destination BC, in partnership with Tourism Innovation Lab, TOTA, and other tourism partners.
The Rainforest to Rockies “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program will match selected applicants with a tourism mentor and provide a $3,000 grant and additional partner support to help take their new tourism ideas to the next level of development.
A new program aimed at sparking and supporting innovative tourism ideas along the Rainforest to Rockies iconic route across southern British Columbia was announced by Destination BC, in partnership with Tourism Innovation Lab, TOTA, and other tourism partners.
The Rainforest to Rockies “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program will match selected applicants with a tourism mentor and provide a $3,000 grant and additional partner support to help take their new tourism ideas to the next level of development.
The goal of the program is to find, advance, and support new tourism ideas that will enhance the road trip experience along British Columbia’s Rainforest to Rockies corridors by motivating travellers to stop and explore a unique tourism experience, encouraging them to stay longer, and visit more communities along the way.
Eligible Projects
Rainforest to Rockies is the first Iconic brand to launch from Destination BC’s Invest in Iconics Strategy and takes visitors from the Pacific Coast to the Canadian Rockies, through the Thompson Okanagan through Highways 1, 3, 5, and 99, to Gold Country, Thompson Valley, Similkameen, South Okanagan, Boundary Country, and Shuswap areas.
The Spark Program is seeking new tourism ideas that enhance the experience of the road-trip traveller along British Columbia’s Rainforest to Rockies corridors in one or more of the following ways:
Motivate travellers to stop their vehicle and explore a unique tourism experience along the Iconic Route
Motivate visitors to stay longer or visit more communities along the way,
Address gaps in tourism products and services by offering something that does not yet exist or is in demand along the route or in the area
Share or convey captivating stories about the place, providing an opportunity for the visitor to connect with the destination in a meaningful way
Preference will be given to applications that demonstrate how your tourism idea supports economic, social, and/or environmental sustainability. Ideas that support or advance principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility are encouraged.
Learn More and Apply
Applications are open to tourism entrepreneurs, small businesses, and non-profit organizations based in BC until March 1, 2024.
Following a review process, 20 finalists will be invited to four virtual pitch sessions, resulting in a total of 12 “Spark” Program winners.
For more information about the Rainforest to Rockies “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program and upcoming info sessions, visit TourismInnovation.ca/R2R.
New Business Supports for Tourism Climate-Readiness: BC Tourism Climate Resiliency Initiative (BCTCRI)
Through the BC Tourism Climate Resiliency Initiative (BCTCRI), BC's tourism industry can apply for sustainability adaptation planning support and micro-grants from Destination BC.
The BC Tourism Climate Resiliency Initiative (BCTCRI) is launching in January 2024 to help BC’s tourism companies develop sustainable practices and climate resiliency. The program aims to incentivize and empower tourism businesses and community destination management organizations to actively contribute to the development of a clean, sustainable, and regenerative tourism landscape in BC.
The BCTCRI is comprised of four project streams that invest in:
Practical climate adaptation and sustainability planning for tourism businesses,
Micro-grants to help with implementation of climate adaptation and sustainability plans,
Development of a data framework to enable better insight-driven decisions, and
New province-wide learning and training opportunities.
Applications for the first two project streams will open in January 2024 and will provide direct support to tourism businesses by offering personalized assistance for creating sustainability roadmaps to help:
Grow sustainable business practices
Address the challenges of climate change
Save on energy costs
Identify solutions to climate change related threats.
Additionally, businesses can receive financial aid for:
Joining accredited sustainability programs
Planning for and adapting to extreme climate events such as wildfires and floods
Funding for projects that reduce energy, waste, and water consumption, aligning with CleanBC’s climate goals.
Application Process
Free, tailored support to tourism businesses looking to incorporate environmental sustainability or climate adaptation measures into their operations. An experienced program advisor and supporting experts will work with you to develop a sustainability and climate adaptation road map and perform detailed assessments to identify the most impactful, customized measures for climate resiliency. Applications are open January 18 to February 23, 2024.
Project Two: Micro-Grants to Support Sustainability and Climate Adaptation Plan Implementation
Micro-grant funding of up to $15,000 for tourism businesses that are ready to build on their current sustainability or climate adaptation plan to implement a project or obtain sustainability certification. Applications are open January 29 to March 8, 2024.
An additional micro-grant intake is planned for Fall 2024 to provide future opportunities for tourism businesses that need time to prepare or enhance their sustainability and climate adaptation plan or road map.
Project Three: Sustainability and Climate Adaptation Data Framework and Project Four: Community Destination Stewardship Initiative will launch later this year.
Learn more about the BCTCRI and the four project streams, including intake periods and application deadlines for BC’s tourism industry, by visiting the program landing page: DestinationBC.ca/what-we-do/destination-management/bc-tourism-climate-resiliency-initiative
Background
This initiative builds on the achievements of the BC Tourism Sustainability Network (BCTSN) – a collaborative sustainability support program for BC’s tourism industry that was initiated in 2022.
This initiative will be delivered by Destination BC and the RDMOs and was created through a provincial partnership with:
BC’s six Regional Destination Management Organizations (RDMOs)—the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association, Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association, Northern BC Tourism Association, Vancouver, Coast & Mountains Tourism Region, and 4VI
This initiative is being funded through a $3 million investment from the provincial Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, over two-years, as part of BC’s Destination Development Fund.
Destination BC Launches First Iconic Brand, Rainforest to Rockies
The first Iconic brand to launch from Destination BC’s Invest in Iconics strategy is now live for the world to see. Rainforest to Rockies, is an iconic Canadian journey along ever-changing landscapes, inspiring travellers to visit more places in the province.
Destination BC is branding, marketing, and supporting destination development of new, globally compelling routes and places that span the entire province of British Columbia. These new place brands will inspire more travellers to visit more places in the province, throughout the year.
The first Iconic brand to launch from Destination BC’s Invest in Iconics strategy is now live for the world to see. Rainforest to Rockies, is an iconic Canadian journey along ever-changing landscapes, inspiring travellers to visit more places in the province.
On HelloBC.com/Rainforest-to-Rockies, travellers can choose their own adventure and enjoy the journey from Vancouver on the Pacific Coast to the Canadian Rockies through several routes, like Highway 3, 5, and 1, to various communities, including destinations in the Thompson Okanagan, such as Kamloops, Mt Robson, Osoyoos and the Kettle Valley Rail Trail.
The TOTA team looks forward to working with Destination BC to promote this iconic route through the region.
Learn More at DestinationBC.ca.
New Highway 3 Trip Planning Website
The Highway 3 Tourism Alliance - a collaboration led by three regional destination marketing organizations (Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, and Vancouver, Coast & Mountains) - launched a new website Hwy3BC.ca encouraging travellers to take the ‘winding route to adventure’.
Highway 3 from Hope, British Columbia to the Alberta border is soon to be known as the best-loved touring route in BC, thanks to a unique multi-regional partnership to help market the route to visitors. The Highway 3 Tourism Alliance - a collaboration led by three regional destination marketing organizations (Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, and Vancouver, Coast & Mountains) - launched its new website Hwy3BC.ca encouraging travellers to take the ‘winding route to adventure’.
The website showcases all the BC communities along Highway 3 like a ‘string of pearls’ and curates itineraries and stories from the road that have been themed to engage traveller passion for adventures, like Arts & Culture, Historic Highway 3, Food, Craft Beer & Wine, Lakes & Rivers, and Outdoor Adventure.
This collaborative regional initiative activates the vision of the Destination BC led Destination Development Strategy and action-planning for Highway 3, co-created with tourism partners from the entire length of the route. This 2016 strategy identified the opportunity to feature the many adventures along Highway 3 and encourage travellers to slow down and enjoy a classic road trip, touring from community to community at all times of year with the intention of driving visitation and spending in more places, across more seasons.
With support from both the Provincial Rural Dividend Fund and PacifiCan Tourism Relief Funding, the three regional destination management organizations (DMOs) together with community DMOs worked with Victoria-based creative agency, The Number, to create a new brand identity for Highway 3.
The new brand features a bold, modern take on the crow, inspired by the history of the Crowsnest Highway. Market research informed the website design and a digital campaign subsequently launched on September 5, 2023 to encourage autumn travel.
A corridor-long Festivals and Events strategy is also underway and the group hopes to continue their work together to secure funding and implement branded signage and wayfinding at key gateways and stops of interest.
Learn more and start exploring Hwy3BC.ca
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Kootenay Rockies Tourism
Wendy Van Puymbroeck
Wendy@kootenayrockies.com
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association
Mike Overend
Mike@TOTABC.com
Vancouver, Coast & Mountains
Allison Picard
Allison.Picard@destinationbc.ca
Thompson Nicola Entrepreneurs Awarded Grants and Mentorships to Help Spark New Tourism Ideas
Three finalists who made winning pitches for the Thompson Nicola “Spark” Program were each awarded a $3,000 seed grant and mentorship to help them get started with their new tourism ideas.
KELOWNA, B.C. – Three finalists who made winning pitches for the Thompson Nicola “Spark” Program were each awarded a $3,000 seed grant and mentorship to help them get started with their new tourism ideas.
The Thompson Nicola “Spark” Program is presented by Destination British Columbia in collaboration with Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), Tourism Valemount, Tourism Kamloops, Tourism Sun Peaks, Explore Gold Country, Tourism Wells Gray, and the Tourism Innovation Lab.
The program’s goal is to find, foster, and support new tourism ideas, experiences, and partnerships that will enhance current offerings, address gaps or challenges, motivate travel and longer stays, and increase year-round visits in the area.
Seven applications were received, with the top five being invited to present their new tourism ideas at the virtual Pitch Session held on December 1. Judge panels of local partner representatives and tourism innovators from outside the region selected the three winning applicants.
The Thompson Nicola “Spark” Program winners are:
Maveric Northcott - Wells Gray Outfitters
Matt Sych - Dunn Folkin' Around? Music Festival
Daphne Spencer - Nicola Valley Rodeo Association
In addition to seed funds, mentorship, and additional partner support, selected applicants gain access to a network of tourism innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders across the province.
For more information visit https://TourismInnovation.ca/ThompsonNicola.html
Quotes
Richard Porges, President & CEO, Destination BC
“We are excited to be supporting local tourism entrepreneurs in the Thompson Nicola area by awarding “Spark” grants and mentorships that will create new tourism experiences and offerings. We look forward to seeing all the winners bring their creative and innovative initiatives to life as they strive to enhance the visitor experience and add value to local communities.”
Ellen Walker-Matthews, CEO, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association
“The “Spark” program has provided an opportunity to learn about many exciting initiatives and ideas in the Thompson Nicola. We congratulate the winners and look forward to watching as their plans unfold and help to grow visitor experiences. We also encourage others to continue to follow their dreams and passions, and bring new experiences to the Thompson Okanagan region.”
Justin Lafontaine, Program Lead, Tourism Innovation Lab
“We congratulate the three winners of the Thompson Nicola “Spark” Program, and are excited to work with them to help develop new and exciting tourism offerings in the region.”
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Media Contacts
TOTA Communications
Chelsea Travere, Communications Specialist, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)
Email: News@TOTABC.com
Destination BC Media Relations
Email: Media.Relations@DestinationBC.ca
Justin Lafontaine, Program Lead, Tourism Innovation Lab
Email: Info@TourismInnovation.ca
Social Media
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)
LinkedIn: @TOTABCNews
Facebook: @TOTABCNews
Twitter: @TOTABCNews
Destination BC
Twitter: @DestinationBC
LinkedIn: @DestinationBritishColumbia
Tourism Innovation Lab
Facebook: @TourismInnovationCanada
Instagram: @TourismInnovationCanada
Twitter: @TourInnovation
About Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association:
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests of the Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia. TOTA is supported by and representative of Destination British Columbia and the BC Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, and Sport.
TOTA is an industry-led organization that represents and supports all business and community tourism interests in the region, while also helping to implement provincial tourism policies.
Learn more at www.TOTABC.org.
About Destination BC:
Destination British Columbia (Destination BC) is a Provincially funded, industry-led Crown corporation that supports a strong and competitive future for BC’s tourism industry through a combination of global marketing, destination development, industry learning, cooperative community-based programs, and visitor servicing. Destination BC’s programs help to improve the visitor experience, support businesses and communities across the province, and strengthen BC’s worldwide reputation as a destination of choice.
For more information about Destination BC’s programs and services, please visit: www.DestinationBC.ca.
About the Tourism Innovation Lab
The Tourism Innovation Lab is a non-profit initiative created to find, foster and support new tourism ideas, experiences and partnerships, to cultivate and propel collaborations between the tourism and tech sectors, and to build a community of tourism innovators, idea makers and entrepreneurs. Launched in Ontario in 2018, the Lab and its "Spark" Mentorships & Grants Program are expanding to new regions across Canada. The Tourism Innovation Lab is a program of Hackforge and has a BC home base in Squamish.
Learn more at www.TourismInnovation.ca.
New Program Aims to "Spark" Innovative Tourism Ideas in Thompson Nicola
A new program aimed at sparking and supporting innovative tourism ideas in the Thompson Nicola area of the Thompson Okanagan tourism region in British Columbia was officially announced by local and provincial tourism partners.
The “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program will match selected applicants from the area with a tourism mentor and provide a $3,000 grant to supplement additional partner support, to help bring new tourism ideas to the next level of development.
For Immediate Release: September 27, 2022
KELOWNA, B.C. – A new program aimed at sparking and supporting innovative tourism ideas in the Thompson Nicola area of the Thompson Okanagan tourism region in British Columbia was officially announced today by local and provincial tourism partners.
The “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program will match selected applicants from the area with a tourism mentor and provide a $3,000 grant to supplement additional partner support, to help bring new tourism ideas to the next level of development.
The goal is to find, foster, and support new tourism ideas, experiences, and partnerships that will enhance current offerings, address gaps or challenges, motivate travel and longer stays, and increase year-round visits.
Applications can be submitted from September 27 to November 4, 2022 and are encouraged from entrepreneurs, small businesses, and non-profit organizations based in the Thompson Nicola area including the communities of Kamloops, Sun Peaks, Valemount, Clearwater, Blue River, Merritt, Lytton, Cache Creek, Clinton, and surrounding areas. Following a review process, five finalists will be invited to a virtual Pitch Session where three winners will be selected.
The “Spark” Program will support businesses and entrepreneurs in the area to bring new tourism experiences to life, which will help visitors experience the Thompson Nicola, benefitting the local community and residents.
The “Spark” Program was first launched in Ontario in 2018 by the Tourism Innovation Lab and has expanded to several regions across British Columbia.
The Thompson Nicola “Spark” Program is presented by Destination British Columbia in collaboration with Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), Tourism Valemount, Tourism Kamloops, Tourism Sun Peaks, Explore Gold Country, Tourism Wells Gray, and the Tourism Innovation Lab.
For more information on the “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program, including eligibility and upcoming Information sessions, visit TourismInnovation.ca/ThompsonNicola
Quotes
Richard Porges, President & CEO, Destination BC
“We are thrilled to be awarding Spark grants and mentorships to three local tourism entrepreneurs in the Thompson Nicola area. It will be rewarding to see the winning initiatives come to life and enhance the availability of diverse tourism offerings in the local area.”
Ellen Walker-Matthews, CEO, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association
“This is a tremendous opportunity for new tourism ideas to be realized in the Thompson Nicola area of the Thompson Okanagan region. The “Spark” program enables and encourages those with innovative tourism concepts to have the chance to see them come to life. We are very excited that Destination BC has brought this opportunity to the Thompson Okanagan.”
Justin Lafontaine, Program Lead, Tourism Innovation Lab
“We are excited to be launching the “Spark” Program in British Columbia in the Thompson Nicola area,” said Justin Lafontaine, Program Lead of the Tourism Innovation Lab. “We are keen to spark and support new tourism ideas that will enhance the region’s tourism offerings and drive innovation.”
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Media Contacts
TOTA Communications
Chelsea Travere, Communications Specialist
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)
Email: News@TOTABC.com
Destination BC Media Relations
Email: Media.Relations@DestinationBC.ca
Justin Lafontaine, Program Lead
Tourism Innovation Lab
Email: info@tourisminnovation.ca
Social Media
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)
LinkedIn: @TOTABCNews
Facebook: @TOTABCNews
Twitter: @TOTABCNews
Destination BC
Twitter: @DestinationBC
LinkedIn: @DestinationBritishColumbia
Tourism Innovation Lab
Facebook: @TourismInnovationCanada
Instagram: @TourismInnovationCanada
Twitter: @TourInnovation
About
About Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association:
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests of the Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia. TOTA is supported by and representative of Destination British Columbia and the BC Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, and Sport.
TOTA is an industry-led organization that represents and supports all business and community tourism interests in the region, while also helping to implement provincial tourism policies.
Learn more at www.TOTABC.org.
About Destination BC:
Destination British Columbia (Destination BC) is a Provincially funded, industry-led Crown corporation that supports a strong and competitive future for BC’s tourism industry through a combination of global marketing, destination development, industry learning, cooperative community-based programs, and visitor servicing. Destination BC’s programs help to improve the visitor experience, support businesses and communities across the province, and strengthen BC’s worldwide reputation as a destination of choice.
For more information about Destination BC’s programs and services, please visit: www.DestinationBC.ca.
About the Tourism Innovation Lab
The Tourism Innovation Lab is a non-profit initiative created to find, foster and support new tourism ideas, experiences and partnerships, to cultivate and propel collaborations between the tourism and tech sectors, and to build a community of tourism innovators, idea makers and entrepreneurs. Launched in Ontario in 2018, the Lab and its "Spark" Mentorships & Grants Program are expanding to new regions across Canada. The Tourism Innovation Lab is a program of Hackforge and has a BC home base in Squamish.
Learn more at www.TourismInnovation.ca.
Free Tourism Digital Academy
Registration for the October intakes of the Tourism Digital Academy, now with learning modules that combine self-directed and live interactive sessions, is NOW OPEN!
It is a free, eight-week digital marketing program for BC tourism businesses seeking to elevate their knowledge and skills in digital marketing to an intermediate level.
Registration for the October intakes of the Tourism Digital Academy, now with learning modules that combine self-directed and live interactive sessions, is NOW OPEN!
It is a free, eight-week digital marketing program for BC tourism businesses seeking to elevate their knowledge and skills in digital marketing to an intermediate level.
Designed for business owners or marketing team members, this comprehensive program provides actionable guidance that helps build a better understanding of SEO, website usability, content, email marketing and analytics.
For the first time, these intakes will offer a combination of self-directed and live interactive programming. Interested participants are encouraged to apply soon as it fills up quickly.
Free Advisory & Education Services from Small Business BC, funded by Destination BC
Destination BC has partnered with Small Business BC to provide tourism stakeholders across the province with free access to Small Business BC’s Advisory Services and Education Offerings. Services are delivered online, by phone, email, webinar or in person.
Destination BC has partnered with Small Business BC to provide tourism stakeholders across the province with free access to Small Business BC’s Advisory Services and Education Offerings. Services are delivered online, by phone, email, webinar or in person (if available).
Service details are as follows:
Advisory Services
Talk to an Expert Series – Speak with a wide range of business advisors and experts and ask questions specific to your business:
Appointments are 30-45 minutes in length. Each session must be booked in advance, using the code DBC3034, and is based on availability.
Business Strategy Advisory – Access Small Business BC’s staff advisors who can provide solutions-based strategy planning advice for business growth. Consultations are up to 60 minutes in length and must be booked in advance, using code DBC3034 at checkout.
Education Services - Education - Small Business BC produces approximately 300 education webinars per year covering over 40 different business topics.
To access any of these resources, identify which advisory and/or education service(s) you are interested in, add it to cart, and apply coupon code DBC3034 at checkout. There is no charge to tourism stakeholders.
Promote Safe Travel this Summer
With the arrival of summer and many people looking to Explore BC, Destination BC is encouraging all operators to remind visitors how to enjoy our beautiful province safely and responsibly.
This summer, help spread the word about safe travel practices by sharing responsible travel graphics on your social media channels. Access updated responsible travel graphics below
With the arrival of summer and many people looking to Explore BC, Destination BC is encouraging all operators to remind visitors how to enjoy our beautiful province safely and responsibly.
This summer, help spread the word about safe travel practices by sharing responsible travel graphics on your social media channels. Access updated responsible travel graphics below
Happy Tourism Week | May 29 – June 4, 2022
Tourism Week is an annual invitation for all tourism partners to come together to champion and promote Canada’s destinations, tourism businesses, and employees – from coast to coast to coast.
Operators and communities around BC are encouraged to share their Tourism Week celebrations on social media using the hashtags #BCTourismCounts and #GreenMeansGo.
The Tourism Industry Association of Canada has created a toolkit with resources to make it easy to share Tourism Week.
Destination BC and TIABC have provided a toolkit with B.C. specific resources.
TIABC created a series of Value of Tourism Videos that you can share through your channels. Videos range from about 0:35 seconds to 2:57 minutes, and feature different parts of the province.
Each year, from May 29 to June 4, 2022, tourism partners are invited to come together to champion and promote Canada’s destinations, tourism businesses, and employees to celebrate tourism in Canada from coast to coast to coast.
Get Involved
Operators and communities around BC are encouraged to share their Tourism Week celebrations on social media using the hashtags #BCTourismCounts and #GreenMeansGo.
The Tourism Industry Association of Canada has created a toolkit with resources to make it easy to share Tourism Week.
Destination BC and TIABC have provided a toolkit with B.C. specific resources.
TIABC created a series of Value of Tourism Videos that you can share through your channels. Videos range from about 0:35 seconds to 2:57 minutes, and feature different parts of the province.
Be sure to follow TIABC and Destination BC on their social channels to share, like and retweet social posts to help all B.C. communities spread the word about Tourism Week.
The Value of Tourism
Tourism is vital to British Columbia, not only for its ability to generate huge economic activity, but also for providing social, cultural and environmental benefits, and showcasing our values as a province: resiliency, reconciliation, peace, tolerance, and inclusivity. These values are needed on the world stage now more than ever.
Tourism improves the quality of life for all British Columbians. Think about the things we enjoy that would not be as viable without the tourism engine: museums and galleries, festivals and sports events, air/highway and coastal transportation, dining and wine touring, parks and recreational facilities, and many other benefits that make life so good here in BC.
Tourism has benefits for both urban and rural communities, provides inclusive and welcoming spaces for all travelers, and acts as a financial and social force for good.
The majority of British Columbians agreed that tourism industry plays an important role in British Columbia’s economic recovery from the COVID 19 pandemic (84%), tourism supports a greater diversity of amenities (such as restaurants, attractions, recreation facilities, and events) than would otherwise exist in their community (79%), while 76% agree that tourism plays a positive role in preserving, sharing, and celebrating the culture and history of their community.