News & Resources
The latest Thompson Okanagan tourism industry news from TOTA, tourism businesses, and communities.
TOTA 2024 AGM & Announcement of Board Directors
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) Annual General Meeting (AGM) was held on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, at the Penticton Lakeside Resort, on the traditional, unceded, and ancestral territory of the Syilx (Okanagan) People.
The meeting included an overview for the year ending March 31, 2023, the presentation of the Fiscal Year 2022/23 Audited Financial Statement, Governance Report, TOTA Activities, and the Board Election Results.
Please join us in congratulating the new and returning board of directors.
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) Annual General Meeting (AGM) was held on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at the Prestige Vernon Lodge & Conference Centre, on the traditional, unceded, and ancestral territory of the Okanagan Indian Band and the syilx (Okanagan) People.
The meeting reviewed the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024, including a presentation of the Audited Financial Statements, Governance Report, and TOTA Activities, as well as the announcement of the Board Election Results.
Board Director Election
We would like to thank all of those in attendance as well as the candidates that let their names stand in this year's election.
Please join us in congratulating the new and returning board of directors:
Executive Directors
Chair:
Sandra Oldfield, Elysian Projects (Continuing Term)
South Okanagan | Sector: Other
Vice-Chair:
Kimo Linders, ERTCU Travel Group (Elected for Additional Term)
All sub regions | Sector: Other
Secretary-Treasurer:
Cassandra Zerebeski, Destination Silver Star (Elected for Additional Term) North Okanagan | Sector: DMO
Past Chair:
Michael J. Ballingall, Big White Ski Resort
Boundary Country | Sector: Attraction
Directors
Mandi Carroll, Westbank First Nation (Elected for Additional Term)
Central Okanagan | Sector: Other
Vicki Dalgleish, Sandman Hotel Group (New)
North Thompson, South Thompson, Gold Country, North Okanagan, Central Okanagan, South Okanagan, and Similkameen | Sector: Accommodation
Kelley Glazer, Destination Osoyoos (Elected for Additional Term)
South Okanagan | Sector: DMO
Morgen Matheson, Tourism Shuswap / Columbia Shuswap Regional District (Elected for Additional Term) Shuswap | Sector: DMO
Lumin McCutcheon, Trails to the Boundary Society (New)
Boundary Country | Sector: Other
Lara Pethybridge, Andrew Peller Ltd (New)
Central, South Okanagan | Sector: Wine
Ed Ratuski, YKA Kamloops Airport (Elected for Additional Term)
South Thompson | Sector: Transportation
Colin Ross, Peak Cellars (New)
Central Okanagan | Sector: Wine & Culinary
Monica Seys, Shuswap Marina (Continuing Term)
Shuswap | Sector: Speciality retail
Dale Sivucha, Coast Capri Hotel (Continuing Term)
Central Okanagan | Sector: Accommodation
Thom Tischik, Travel Penticton Society (Continuing Term)
South Okanagan | Sector: DMO
Welcome to all of the new and continuing board members. We thank you for your dedication and commitment to the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry and the region.
Learn more about the directors at TOTABC.org/Board.
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association Request for Proposals
Qualified engineering firms are invited to submit proposals for providing engineering design services for an addition and renovation to the TOTA Inspiration Centre in West Kelowna, BC.
Qualified engineering firms are invited to submit proposals for providing engineering design services for an addition and renovation to the TOTA Inspiration Centre in West Kelowna, BC.
The addition and renovation will consist of:
260 square foot addition to the front of the building that will be two storeys in height with decorative columns and a large roof overhang. It will house a new entrance, and stairs and an elevator to the rooftop patio.
600 square foot rooftop addition (300 sq ft green roof and 300 sq ft patio space)
Installing a new roof membrane and roof insulation on the remaining 1100 sq feet of roof
Renovating one bathroom to meet BCBC 2024 accessibility standards
Removing a powder room
Cladding the existing exterior walls.
Deadline for submission of proposals is November 6, 2024
For more information, including architectural drawings, please contact: Jane Parece jane@totabc.com
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association Is Biosphere Certified
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is thrilled to have once again completed its annual Biosphere Certification Audit.
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is thrilled to have once again completed its annual Biosphere Certification Audit. This annual reporting provides the opportunity to review and confirm continuous improvement against the 17 Sustainable Development Goal Measures.
"The time to consider making change is behind us; our industry must work together to adopt practices and policies now that will protect and preserve the very experiences our residents value and that we invite visitors to enjoy," notes Walker-Matthews, "The responsibility is ours, individually, collectively and urgently."
Tourism businesses within the region can participate in the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program, which equips tourism businesses with tools and resources to continuously measure, manage, and report sustainability management efforts.
Board Director Election Voting Begins October 1, 2024
The TOTA board director election will be open October 1 to 14, 2024. Learn about the candidates and how voting members can vote.
Electronic voting for the TOTA Board Election will be open from October 1 to October 14, 4:30 pm.
Voting stakeholders received an email invite on October 1 from TOTA through Election Runner (noreply@electionrunner.com) with a link and instructions to vote for the board of directors.
There are a total of 12 board candidates for the 10 open positions. Each individual would be a tremendous asset to the TOTA board.
Candidates
For profiles of each candidate, go to TOTABC.org/agm.
Current directors, running for an additional term:
AJ Bachhal, Best Western Plus Gateway to the Falls
North Thompson
Accommodation
Mandi Carroll, Westbank First Nation
Central Okanagan
Other: Community
Kelley Glazer, Destination Osoyoos
South Okanagan
DMO
Kimo Linders, ERTCU Travel Group
All sub regions
Other: Receptive tour operator
Morgen Matheson, Tourism Shuswap / Columbia Shuswap Regional District
Shuswap
DMO
Ed Ratuski, YKA Kamloops Airport
South Thompson
Other - Transportation
Cassandra Zerebeski, Destination Silver Star
North Okanagan
DMO
New candidates:
Vicki Dalgleish, Sandman Hotel Group
North Thompson, South Thompson, Gold Country, North Okanagan, Central Okanagan, South Okanagan, and Similkameen
Accommodation
Lumin McCutcheon, Trails to the Boundary Society
Boundary Country
Other
Lara Pethybridge, Andrew Peller Ltd (Gray Monk, Sandhill, Black Hills, Tinhorn Creek, Red Rooster)
Central Okanagan, South Okanagan
Wine & Culinary
Natasha Rojas, Wine Tours Gone South
South Okanagan
Other - Tour operator
Colin Ross, Peak Cellars
Central Okanagan
Wine & Culinary
This is an outstanding list of candidates, and we look forward to announcing and welcoming the new board directors at the TOTA AGM on October 29.
More Information
For questions, please email the TOTA Board Liaison at BoardLiaison@TOTABC.com.
Spring 2024 Beverage Industry Training Program Summary
The "Beverage Industry Training" (BIT) program, a collaborative initiative between the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), Okanagan College, and an independent consultant, recently concluded with notable success. This comprehensive, two-week program aimed to enhance the skills and knowledge of 20 participants within the South Okanagan beverage industry, covering wine, beer, and spirits and providing essential industry certifications.
The "Beverage Industry Training" (BIT) program, a collaborative initiative between the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), Okanagan College, and an independent consultant, recently concluded with notable success. This comprehensive, two-week program aimed to enhance the skills and knowledge of 20 participants within the South Okanagan beverage industry, covering wine, beer, and spirits and providing essential industry certifications. The BIT program participants included new hires in wineries, breweries, distilleries, and tasting rooms, owners of small wineries, and existing staff seeking foundational knowledge and opportunities for career advancement.
The BIT program combined practical skills, industry insights, and career development opportunities to address the critical need for skilled personnel retention and enhancement. Participants were taught and immersed in the South Okanagan beverage community, gaining exposure to grape varieties, production methods, and the regional context.
A panel of industry experts was consulted to develop the program’s curriculum, ensuring it met the current needs and standards of the South Okanagan beverage industry. The program also utilized Roots & Vines to transport participants to wineries, breweries, distilleries, and cideries. This arrangement allowed participants to gain hands-on learning experiences in various beverage production environments.
The program's comprehensive curriculum covered several key modules designed to equip participants with a broad spectrum of skills and knowledge essential for the beverage industry.
Foundations for Industry Professionals
This module explored the unique flavor profile of the South Okanagan's beverage scene, delving into the region's history, terroir, and community connections. Emphasis was placed on customer service excellence to enhance guest experiences through effective communication and hospitality, preparing participants to handle challenging situations with professionalism. Additionally, this segment provided essential knowledge on financial literacy, compliance with regulations, and navigating licensing and safety protocols.
Teamwork and Collaboration
The Teamwork and Collaboration module focused on fostering positive relationships with colleagues and industry partners. Training included conflict resolution and team-building techniques, enabling participants to work cohesively in a professional environment.
Storytelling and Sales
This segment highlighted the construction of compelling sales narratives using traditional storytelling techniques. Participants learned to share regional stories effectively, engaging customers and enhancing their sales strategies.
Retention Strategies for Employers
In this module, strategies for employee engagement, career pathways, and promoting work-life balance were discussed to enhance job satisfaction and retention. The content aimed at helping employers develop a supportive and motivating work environment.
Challenges and Adaptability
Lastly, the Challenges and Adaptability module prepared participants to handle emergency protocols during wildfire seasons, manage air quality issues, and support community resilience during challenging times. This training was crucial for ensuring that participants could maintain operations and support their communities in the face of adversity.
Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive. One participant remarked, "Such a great introduction to the field of the Beverage Industry. Can’t say enough about the two weeks of classes and field trips. Everything about this course was perfect!! Loved it!"
Participants completed the program with a robust understanding of the beverage industry specific to the South Okanagan region. They were equipped to solve real-world challenges in winemaking, brewing, and distillation, manage beverage-related projects effectively, and appreciate the significance of sustainable practices for long-term success.
Building on the initial program's success, plans are underway for a Tier 2 program that will offer more advanced skills and leadership development. This upcoming program will explore craftsmanship and quality assurance, covering advanced winemaking, brewing, and distillation techniques to ensure precision, consistency, and excellence. Participants will stay updated on industry trends and innovation and learn to implement the best product development and marketing practices. Leadership and mentorship will be key components, focusing on effective management strategies, developing mentorship programs, and fostering a learning culture. Business sustainability and succession planning will be emphasized to ensure business continuity and growth, preparing participants for leadership transitions. Advanced retention strategies for employers will also be included, covering talent development, recognition programs, and employee wellness initiatives. Additionally, the program will address challenges and resilience, helping participants adapt to climate variability, plan for emergency preparedness, and strengthen community support during difficult times.
The successful completion of the Beverage Industry Training program highlighted its value in cultivating an appreciation for the beverage industry and its impact on local culture. By equipping participants with the necessary skills and knowledge, the BIT program has significantly contributed to the professional growth of individuals and the overall enhancement of the South Okanagan beverage industry.
Future Programs
Based on the success of the Spring 2024 Beverage Industry Training Program, a secondary Fall 2024 intake has been created. Interested parties are invited to watch the TOTA Industry Training Centre to learn about ongoing, and future upcoming training programs.
AGM & Board Director Call for Nominations
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) will hold the 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) on October 29, 2024, at 3:30-4:30 pm, in the Prestige Vernon Lodge & Conference Centre.
We invite Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association voting stakeholders to put their name forward or to nominate a qualified candidate to serve as a member of the TOTA Board of Directors for a two-year term, effective October 29, 2024, to the 2026 AGM.
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) will hold the 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) on October 29, 2024, at 3:30-4:30 pm, in the Prestige Vernon Lodge & Conference Centre in Vernon, home of the Okanagan Indian Band and the unceded, traditional territory of the Syilx People.
On behalf of TOTA Vice-Chair and Governance Committee Chair, Sandra Oldfield, we invite Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association voting stakeholders to put their name forward or to nominate a qualified candidate to serve as a member of the TOTA Board of Directors for a two-year term, effective October 29, 2024, to the 2026 AGM.
Leading up to the AGM, the Board Election will take place as follows:
Deadline to become a Voting Member: August 29
Call for Nominations: August 30 - September 20 (3 weeks)
Electronic Voting: October 1 - 15 (2 weeks)
Election results announced at TOTA AGM and first board meeting: October 29
TOTA is committed to assisting and supporting tourism stakeholders and working closely with Destination BC to put the Thompson Okanagan region and the Province of BC at the forefront of innovation as we maneuver through the tourism industry’s changing landscape.
This year, there are 10 openings. 7 directors are letting their names stand for re-election. 4 directors moving into the second year of their 2-year term.
Directors continuing their term:
Owner & Manager
Blind Bay | Shuswap
Executive Director, Travel Penticton Society
Penticton | South Okanagan
Sandra Oldfield, Vice-Chair
Founder
Elysian Projects & Fortify Conference & Tradeshow
South Okanagan
General Manager, Coast Capri Hotel
Kelowna | Central Okanagan
Current directors standing for re-election:
Economic Development & Communications
Westbank | Central Okanagan
Co-Founder / Director, Business Development
Penticton | South Okanagan
Managing Director
Kamloops | Thompson Valleay
General Manager, Best Western Plus Gateway to the Falls
Clearwater | North Thompson
Executive Director
Osoyoos | South Okanagan
Team Leader, Tourism and Film
Tourism Shuswap / Columbia Shuswap Regional District
Salmon Arm | Shuswap
Executive Director
Destination Silver Star / Silver Star Resort Association
Vernon | North Okanagan
Thank you to the exiting directors:
Michael J. Ballingall, Chair (moving into position of Past Chair)
Senior Vice President
Boundary Country
Business Development Officer
Kamloops | South Thompson
Patricia Leslie, Secretary-Treasurer
National People & Culture Business Partner, for the Estate Wine Group of Andrew Peller properties
Okanagan Valley
Submit a Nomination
We look forward to having candidates representing various communities and sectors, with a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences.
Voting members are eligible to put a name forward as a candidate in the election. Candidates must complete the nomination form which includes signatures from 4 voting stakeholders - see details below.
If you or someone you know is interested to run in the TOTA board election and is on the current Voting Stakeholder List, please:
Collect signatures for the nomination form
Submit the nomination form to TOTABC.org/AGM/election by 11:59 pm, September 20, 2024
For questions, please email BoardLiaison@TOTABC.com.
Register for the TOTA AGM & Summit
October 29 - 30, 2024
Hosted with Tourism Vernon & Destination Silver Star
TOTA’s Corporate Carbon Inventory & Thompson Okanagan’s Destination Carbon Inventory
This Carbon Inventory was done to get a comprehensive assessment of our Destination and Corporate carbon emissions and to set the stage for future coordinated action based on accurate data.
With sustainability as one of our guiding principles, and as a signatory of the Glasgow Declaration, TOTA has committed to net zero by 2050 and 50% reduction by 2030. This Carbon Inventory was done to get a comprehensive assessment of our Destination and Corporate carbon emissions and to set the stage for future coordinated action based on accurate data.
A carbon footprint - or Carbon Inventory - measures the amount of greenhouse gasses released by an activity, such as TOTA's business operations. It's expressed in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e), which shows the impact on global warming.
To calculate TOTA's corporate carbon footprint, the GHG Protocol’s Corporate Standard was used, a widely accepted method that ensures consistency in measuring and comparing greenhouse gas emissions across different organizations globally.
If you run a tourism business and have taken actions to decarbonize your business, please let us know by emailing eve@totabc.com
Help Steer the Future of Transportation in the Thompson Okanagan with Inter-Community Transportation Survey
As the region continues to grow input from the public is crucial in shaping the future of transportation. The survey results will guide planning and advocacy efforts to enhance transportation options between communities, ensuring a connected and sustainable future for the Thompson Okanagan.
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) and the University of British Columbia Okanagan (UBCO), with support from the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior, have launched the Inter-Community Transportation Survey. This important initiative invites businesses, residents, and visitors to share their thoughts on transportation needs and preferences within the Thompson Okanagan region.
As the region continues to grow— with StatsBC projecting an increase of 250,000 people by 2046—input from the public is crucial in shaping the future of transportation. The survey results will guide planning and advocacy efforts to enhance transportation options between communities, ensuring a connected and sustainable future for the Thompson Okanagan.
“We encourage all business owners, residents, and visitors in the Thompson Okanagan region to participate in this important survey,” said Ellen Walker-Matthews, CEO of TOTA. “Feedback will play a crucial role in shaping the future of transportation, making travel between our communities more efficient, sustainable and accessible for everyone.”
The survey is quick and easy, taking just five minutes to complete. To thank participants for their time, they will be entered into a draw to win one of several incredible prizes, including:
3-night stay at Big White Ski Resort.
2-night stay at Summerland Waterfront Resort.
Predator Ridge Golf Experience.
Read the Release here: www.hatchcomms.ca/post/thompson-okanagan-transportation-survey
Thompson Okanagan Launches the “Travel Now to the Thompson Okanagan On Us” Campaign
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is inviting visitors to enjoy lazy days at the beach, picturesque landscapes, and all the charming communities nestled within the region with its latest campaign entitled Travel Now to the Thompson Okanagan - On Us.
Visitors to the region and locals enjoying a staycation can share their vacation photos within the region to be entered to win one of ten $1,000 cash prizes toward a 2024 trip.
Visit thompsonokanagan.com/on-us for full contest details and share the campaign via social media via @Thompson_Okanagan post on Facebook and Instagram.
Read the full press release by Hatch Comms for full campaign details.
TOTA is now a member of the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association has joined over 100 member organizations across the province and is now an Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORCBC) member.
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association has joined over 100 member organizations across the province and is now an Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORCBC) member.
This partnership will help TOTA promote and protect outdoor recreation opportunities and outdoor spaces across British Columbia.
Interested businesses can learn more about and join the ORCBC in preserving the outdoor spaces that we work and play on throughout the province. There are many ways to get involved including BC Rivers Day on September 22, 2024.
About the ORCBC
The Outdoor Recreation Council of British Columbia (ORCBC) is a charitable organization that works with its members, government agencies, Indigenous communities, other organizations, and the public to address issues related to outdoor recreation access, environmental stewardship, and public policy.
TOTA Awarded North America's Responsible Tourism Award 2024
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has been awarded the 2024 North America’s Responsible Tourism Award in the annual World Travel Awards.
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has been awarded the 2024 North America’s Responsible Tourism Award in the annual World Travel Awards.
The World Travel Awards acknowledge, reward, and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the global travel and tourism industry.
TOTA has received the North America’s Award for Responsible Tourism for six consecutive years, in 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022, 2023, and 2024 (there was no NA competition in 2021) and is honoured to win once again in this category.
As well, TOTA received the World Travel Award for Responsible Tourism in 2018, 2019, and 2020.
Achieving this recognition helps TOTA spread the word on how the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry and our organization are working to offer tourism services in a responsible and sustainable manner.
As the winner of the North America award, TOTA is nominated for the World Travel Award for Responsible Tourism contest in autumn 2024. Voting information will be shared then.
Background
About the World Travel Awards™
World Travel Awards™ was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all key sectors of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries. Today, the World Travel Awards™ brand is recognised globally as the ultimate hallmark of industry excellence.
About the 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 B.C. 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.
BetterTable Shortcast with Ellen Walker-Matthews
BetterTable created a shortcast series for hospitality leaders to learn about food, sustainability and diversity from some of the brightest minds in the tourism and hotel industry.
In the latest episode, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) CEO Ellen Walker-Matthews shared insights about the Thompson Okanagan region and dives into how TOTA is leading the way in sustainability by supporting local food, farm to table experiences, and food waste training and audits for tourism stakeholders.
BetterTable created a shortcast series for hospitality leaders to learn about food, sustainability and diversity from some of the brightest minds in the tourism and hotel industry.
In the latest episode, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) CEO Ellen Walker-Matthews shared insights about the Thompson Okanagan region and dives into how TOTA is leading the way in sustainability by supporting local food, farm to table experiences, and food waste training and audits for tourism stakeholders.
Listen to BetterTable shortcast episode
TOTA is now Rainbow Registered
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is a Rainbow Registered business. This accreditation, administered by Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce(CGLCC), is a testament to our commitment to creating a safer, more welcoming, and inclusive space for the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
We are excited to announce that The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is a Rainbow Registered business. This accreditation, administered by Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce(CGLCC), is a testament to our commitment to creating a safer, more welcoming, and inclusive space for the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
By achieving the Rainbow Registered accreditation, we are recognized for ensuring that our 2SLGBTQI+ visitors and staff feel valued and respected. This aligns with our core values of diversity and inclusion, and we are proud to be a part of this important national initiative.
Tourism businesses in the Thompson Okanagan region can join over 300 other businesses in Canada that are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive community by becoming Rainbow Registered.
We encourage you to visit RainbowRegistered.ca to learn more about the program.
Last chance: Register for TOTA Golf Tournament and enter win great prizes
This year, the 30th on the 30th TOTA Annual Golf Tournament, will the biggest and best golf tournament yet - and there's still time to register and be entered to win 2 Air Canada Round-Trip economy tickets to anywhere Air Canada flies within North America including Hawaii.
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Register for the TOTA Golf Tournament & enter for chance to win 2 Air Canada Round-Trip Tickets
Golfers registered by Friday, May 24 will have a chance to win 2 Air Canada Round-Trip economy tickets to anywhere Air Canada flies.
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TOTA Golf Tournament Sponsors and Prizes | Join us May 30, 2024 in Kamloops
For 30 years, the TOTA Golf Tournament has brought together people of the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry for a day of connection and comradery, and, of course, fun!
This year, Bighorn Golf & Country Club in Kamloops is playing host to the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association’s 30th Annual Golf Tournament on Thursday, May 30.
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GreenStep EcoFund Verified Program Assists TOTA Stakeholders to Reduce the Costs of Switching to RNG
TOTA continues its commitment to destination stewardship and sustainability through a partnership with GreenStep and its EcoFund program. Tourism businesses that join the EcoFund program, collect an EcoFee that helps their businesses to cut down on the consumption of energy, waste and water, by investing in more efficient technologies and renewable energy.
TOTA continues its commitment to destination stewardship and sustainability through a partnership with GreenStep and its EcoFund program. GreenStep is an industry leader in guiding businesses to reduce environmental impacts and in turn the region’s carbon footprint. Tourism businesses that join the EcoFund program, collect an EcoFee that helps their businesses to cut down on the consumption of energy, waste and water, by investing in more efficient technologies and renewable energy. The EcoFund is managed by GreenStep and is applied to measurable carbon reduction projects at the participating business.
Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) is part of that energy solution and businesses that are GreenStep Verified are now able to use 10% of their EcoFund towards incorporating RNG into their energy portfolio. RNG is a practical way to help mitigate future climate crises and transform BC's energy future by reducing BC's greenhouse gas emissions. Supporting both personal and professional climate goals, this is an important action to aid the Province’s path toward a ‘CleanBC Roadmap to 2030.’ Switching to FortisBC’s renewable natural gas option does not require any new equipment, upgrades, or installations. Customers have the option of replacing 5% to 100% of their natural gas consumption with RNG.
Improving tourism business value is a goal of TOTA and GreenStep. Through the GreenStep EcoFund program businesses access a comprehensive energy and carbon management funding program, and receive the EcoFund Verified seal, marketing assets, and annual summary reports to help communicate the positive impacts they have made. These materials help share the participation in the program, and reflect your dedication and progress towards improving sustainability within the region. If understanding your business's energy consumption or carbon footprint is a commitment for your business, then TOTA’s dedicated Energy Analyst, Harshit Srivastava, can provide a free audit. Harshit specializes in energy and can offer local tourism businesses opportunities for cost-saving options to reduce their carbon footprints. For energy efficiency solutions and to learn more about the benefits of making this simple switch, schedule an Energy Audit with Harshit, or book a free EcoFund opportunity analysis with GreenStep. Projects identified can then be funded in whole or in part through the GreenStep EcoFund program.
About GreenStep Solutions Inc.: GreenStep was founded in 2008 to help small to medium-sized enterprises measure and improve their sustainability performance. To date, the organization has worked with thousands of businesses and organizations of all sizes, in a variety of industries such as tourism and hospitality, retail, professional services, and manufacturing. For more information, visit www.greenstep.ca.
BC Fairs Learning Exchange
The BC Fairs Learning Exchange took place in Penticton on April 14-16, bringing together a diverse community of thought leaders, professionals, and enthusiasts from across the realms of business, culture, and innovation. TOTA CEO Ellen Walker-Matthews delivered the opening presentation and took part in a panel on crisis communications for BC fairs.
The BC Fairs Learning Exchange took place in Penticton on April 14-16, bringing together a diverse community of thought leaders, professionals, and enthusiasts from across the realms of business, culture, and innovation. This BC Fairs event serves as a dynamic platform for fostering collaborative dialogue, sharing groundbreaking ideas, and cultivating lasting connections.
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) CEO Ellen Walker-Matthews delivered opening remarks, including an overview of the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry, the value of agri-tourism, and resources for agri-tourism operators.
Ellen also took part in a panel on Communicating in a Crisis with Leeann Froese and Travel Penticton executive director Thom Tischik, moderated by Allison Markin of All She Wrote Consulting. The panelists discussed how fairs/large events can communicate in a meaningful way when a sudden disaster (fires, floods, road closures, pandemics etc) happens, plus prepare ahead of time by developing reputation management strategies.
Promote Your Business at the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Inspiration Centre - 2024 Season
Thompson Okanagan tourism companies are invited to share adventures and experiences at the Tourism Inspiration Centre on Highway 97C above Peachland, which receives 35,000+ visitors per season.
Promotion Opportunities for the season (May-October)
Outdoor Billboard Space: $500+GST / year
Brochure Racking Space & QR Code Link to Website: $125+GST / year
On-Site Exhibit Space: $150+GST / weekend
Biosphere Commitment Program members will receive a 25% discount on listed prices.
Availability is limited and offered first come, first serve. To secure your promotion space, contact Visit@TOTABC.com.
Thompson Okanagan tourism companies are invited to share adventures and experiences at the Tourism Inspiration Centre on Highway 97C above Peachland, which receives 35,000+ visitors in a regular season.
TOTA operates the Tourism Inspiration Centre, with a team of Tourism Visitor Information Counsellors available to assist visitors en route to or from their Thompson Okanagan destination.
Note: Biosphere Commitment Program members will receive a 25% discount on listed prices.
Promotion Opportunities for the 2024 Season (May-October)
Outdoor Billboard Space: $500+GST / year
Display a poster for 4' x 8' space facing the Tourism Inspiration Centre and parking lot. This includes the opportunity to host an on-site exhibit space for one weekend during the season to meet with and directly promote your experience to visitors; and one social media post on Tourism Inspiration Centre Facebook, Instagram, and Google Business.
Billboard creation and installation not included.
Brochure Racking Space & QR Code Link to Website: $125+GST / year
Display brochures and link to your website in the Tourism Inspiration Centre. Tourism Inspiration Centre ambassadors will familiarize themselves with your company and share it with visitors. Includes one social media post on Tourism Inspiration Centre Facebook, Instagram, and Google Business. Brochure creation not included.
On-Site Exhibit Space: $150+GST / weekend
Host an on-site exhibit space outside the Tourism Inspiration Centre to meet with and directly promote your experience to visitors. Includes one social media post on Tourism Inspiration Centre Facebook, Instagram, and Google Business. Tent/booth not included.
Secure Your Promotion Space
Availability is limited and offered first come, first serve. To secure your promotion space, submit the Promotion Subscription Form or contact Tourism Inspiration Manager, Barbara Bonnough, at Visit@TOTABC.com.
Thompson Rivers University (TRU) and TOTA partner to benefit students in TRU’s tourism management program and support the TRU Tourism Innovation Lab
Thompson Rivers University (TRU) and the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to benefit students in TRU’s tourism management program and support the TRU Tourism Innovation Lab.
KAMLOOPS – Thompson Rivers University (TRU) and the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to benefit students in TRU’s tourism management program and support the TRU Tourism Innovation Lab.
The partnership prioritizes collaboration between TRU and TOTA to support students entering the tourism field through learning resources and opportunities, industry mentorship and referrals. TOTA’s support for the TRU Tourism Innovation Lab also fuels business development in the tourism sector.
“I am thrilled to affirm our commitment to fostering the next generation of tourism leaders through our partnership with Thompson Rivers University. Together, we are empowering students with invaluable resources, mentorship and opportunities to innovate within the dynamic tourism sector. This collaboration not only enriches the educational experience but also fuels entrepreneurial spirit, driving forward the future of tourism in our region,” said Ellen Walker-Matthews, CEO of TOTA.
TRU, in partnership with Tourism Kamloops and the Kamloops Innovation Centre, launched the TRU Tourism Innovation Lab in February 2020. The entrepreneurship program leverages an existing tourism management course at the university and supports students to develop an innovative tourism product through research and industry mentorship.
Students can further develop their business ideas through the Tourism Venture Acceleration Program with support from the TRU Generator and Kamloops Innovation Centre to produce market-ready tourism products that fill current gaps.
“Industry partnership is critical to the success of our program, students and alumni because it keeps education up to speed with market activity and gaps, especially in BC,” said David Carter, assistant teaching professor and director of the Tourism Innovation Lab. “Our partnership with TOTA ensures students have access to resources that are current and reflect the state of the industry today.”
Success stories from the TRU Tourism Innovation Lab include:
Pilot tour to the McAbee Fossil Beds Heritage Site with Jada Glen
Guided hiking in Kamloops with Alex Page
ShredLoops with Steffen Masaites (watch the video here)
Additionally, TOTA has renewed funding for the Tourism Excellence Award first established in 2014 to provide a $1,500 annual scholarship for the top academic student on the Bachelor of Tourism Management Program.
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Contacts:
David Carter, Director, Tourism Innovation Lab
Thompson Rivers University
DCarter@TRU.ca
Ellen Walker Matthews, President and CEO
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association
Ellen@TOTABC.com