News & Resources
The latest Thompson Okanagan tourism industry news from TOTA, tourism businesses, and communities.
Electric Car Charging Stations in Kelowna
Have an electric car, but are unsure if Kelowna has the right charging station for your car? Below is a map of over 20 different charging stations in Kelowna and the area.
Look for more information? Download your Tourism Kelowna’s online digital visitors' guide to go paperless.
Have an electric car, but are unsure if Kelowna has the right charging station for your car? Below is a map of over 20 different charging stations in Kelowna and area.
Look for more information? Download your Tourism Kelowna’s online digital visitors' guide to go paperless.
TOTA Fast Facts
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association presents Fast Facts, a biweekly research roundup to provide an ongoing snapshot of how the tourism industry is being impacted as a result of COVID-19 and an overview of how things are changing through the stages of recovery.
Tourism Research Summary
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is pleased to once again bring you Friday Fast Facts providing an ongoing snapshot of how the tourism industry is being impacted as a result of COVID-19 and an overview of how things are changing as we begin moving through these first stages of recovery.
We will continue to gain and share business intelligence and insights which come directly from tourism stakeholders in our region via telephone and online surveys; data from our partnership with Environics Analytics received and analyzed weekly, and additional research has been sourced through the UN World Tourism Organization, Destination Canada, Destination BC, British Columbia Regional Tourism Secretariat, BC Hotel Association, go2HR, Community DMO Partners, and others.
Now more than ever we understand the importance of providing timely data that will assist you in making informed decisions, understanding how industry and consumers are responding, both in the Thompson Okanagan and the province as a whole, and that will assist you in making adjustments to how you do business.
Watch for Friday Fast Fact bi-weekly and for more information please visit Research Roundup on TOTA News Centre.
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is proudly supported by the British Columbia Ministry of Tourism Arts and Culture.
- TOTA Research
Biweekly Fast Facts
A New Look · Carbon Training Workshops
This month we have a new look to our Biosphere Commitment Monthly Newsletter. With the majority of the communication and engagement moved online, you might found it overwhelming to read all the great contents, sometimes it is just impossible to read them all. That's why we are launching a new format that summarizes the content into four major categories
Biosphere Member Highlights
Sustainability News
Industry Trend
Education & Training
Another exciting update is our upcoming workshops, in collaboration with GreenStep Solutions, we are excited to deliver to Carbon Training Workshop Sessions on March 4th and March 25th at 10 am PST. See details in the post below.
Biosphere Commitment Monthly Newsletter
A New Look
Our Biosphere Commitment Program Newsletter has a new look this month! With the majority of communication and engagement moving online, you might find it overwhelming to keep up with all of the industry newsletters you receive. That's why we are launching a new format that summarizes the content into four major categories:
Biosphere Member Highlights
Sustainability News
Industry Trends
Education & Training
Click on Read More below each section, which will direct you to our News Centre to read the content that interests you.
Another exciting update is our upcoming carbon workshop sessions. We are excited to deliver two Carbon Training Workshops in collaboration with GreenStep on March 4 and March 25. See the post below for further details.
Stay up to date on the latest news about the Biosphere Commitment Program by subscribing to our Biosphere Monthly Newsletter below.
TOTA Carbon Training Workshop
An emission reduction opportunity you don't want to miss!
For many small and mid-sized businesses, measuring your carbon footprint is easier than you may think. In partnership with GreenStep, TOTA will be hosting two carbon training workshop sessions in March to outline the key steps to measure the carbon footprint of your business, and then uncover opportunities to both reduce emissions and save money. These sessions will be highly interactive, engaging, and leave you with actionable steps. The two sessions build on each other, as outlined below.
1st session - Thursday, March 4 - 10:00 to 11:30 AM
Open to all TOTA stakeholders
Overview of the Carbon Challenge and how to select emissions sources that apply to your organization
Identifying data you need to collect and how to collect it
Brief intro to EcoBase carbon software
2nd session - Thursday, March 25 - 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Requires a subscription for EcoBase carbon software (1 year subscription included with the Biosphere Commitment Program).
A deeper dive into how to use EcoBase to calculate your footprint, and how to identify opportunities, set and achieve emission reduction targets, and offset your remaining carbon footprint
The sessions will also be recorded in case you are not able to attend live.
News Highlights
A Few Biosphere Updates Highlights from this month:
Want to keep up to date with Biosphere News? Subscribe to our Biosphere Monthly Newsletter or connect with us through the Biosphere Facebook page.
Sustainable Project of the Year Award Winner for 2020
Best Western Plus Kamloops was selected as the 2020 Sustainable Project of the Year Award Winner!
The Best Western Plus Kamloops Hotel was able to accomplish no small feat in their renovation refresh on their 4th floor. The goal going into the project was to repurpose, resell or recycle 90% of the materials being changed. They are very proud, and so are we, that they were able to beat that goal to 95%.
Best Western PLUS Kamloops selected as the 2020 Sustainable Project of the Year Award Winner!
The Best Western PLUS Kamloops Hotel was able to accomplish no small feat in their renovation refresh on their 4th floor. The goal going into the project was to repurpose, resell or recycle 90% of the materials being changed. They are very proud, and so are we, that they were able to beat that goal and achieve 95%!
Jen Krohn - Best Western PLUS Kamloops
“At the Best Western PLUS Kamloops Hotel, owner John Hampel has been carrying on the passion his father started, building to a sustainable standard. The Hampel family were the first hoteliers in Kamloops to add solar and geothermal to hotels. When they started planning the Best Western PLUS, John Hampel took his father’s passion and experience and built the hotel to “Green Hotel” standards. We have geothermal heating for all public areas and pool, heat pumps, Power smart lighting, etc. to name a few items. Our footprint is 45% of a standard hotel of this size. This Biosphere award means a lot to the owner and the team who operates the hotel. We have always strived to be green, sustainable and give back to our community. This award shows our passion has been recognized by our peers. The Biosphere Commitment Program has allowed us to continue and grow our Green Programs. As Kamloops “Award Winning Eco-friendly Hotel”, the award shows we are maintaining a high standard in all areas of our operations, including sustainability!”
- Jen Krohn, Operations Manager, Best Western PLUS Kamloops
Best Western Plus Lobby
Best Western Plus Kamloops Pool
Best Western Plus Kamloops Exterior
Sustainable Renovation Details
Original window dressings and skirtings were sold to another local Kamloops property
All hallway and room carpets were able to be recycled but they were able to repurpose 20% internally in storage areas, 35% was sold to local motels/hotels and the remaining carpet was donated to Habitat for Humanity. The only part of the project that was unable to be recycled or reused was the carpet bases due to the glue and other materials which only contributed to 5% lost in being a 100% sustainable project.
The vinyl baseboards were purchased to allow them to recycled or reused in the future, while the hallway baseboards were made from 85% recycled material.
The new carpet and vinyl planks were again ordered to the same commitment to be recycled at same end of life.
24 toilets were donated to Habitat for Humanity which resulted in all 24 being able to be resold locally. The new replacement toilets are 25% more efficient than the original toilets.
Since choosing to replace the beds on the 4th floor earlier than needed, they were able to use 40% of the beds on another floor that had high use beds (ie. team rooms). The remaining beds were donated to Ask Wellness, where the beds were then stripped, recycled or reused 98% of the material. The new beds are made from a higher amount of recycled materials than the original beds.
The room furniture is solid wood and granite toppings, thus being able to refresh them effectively.
ShareYourLoveForBC Contest
We are very lucky to live in British Columbia. There is so much to do and to love, which is why Destination BC has created a contest, ShareYourLoveForBC, to hear what you love most about this province.
We are very lucky to live in British Columbia. There is so much to do and to love, which is why Destination BC has created a contest, Share Your Love For BC, to hear what you love most about this province. All you need to do is send in a photo with a brief description and your submissions will be entered into a draw where you have the opportunity to win $500 in gift cards or vouchers to spend at up to 3 local businesses in your own community. This contest will end on March 22nd.
For more information visit ShareYourLoveForBC.com.
If you would like to share this contest with your customers, use the stakeholder toolkit to find contest details, suggested messaging, graphics and imagery, and ways you can participate.
Innovation at UNWTO | 2020 A Year in Review · UN Innovation Toolkit
The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) believes that innovation is the key to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
UNWTO Innovation Services 2020: A Year in Review. This past year has presented unprecedented challenges to the sector but has also stimulated innovation to recover and build back a safer, more resilient sector. Read the full year in review here.
UNSSC collaborated with UNWTO, Google to discuss the use and contextualization of the UN Innovation Toolkit, with a special focus on one of the critical pillars of innovation: Partnerships. Read more here.
A Glance at Innovation At UNWTO
The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) believes that innovation is the key to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. To drive the digitalization of tourism, create an Innovation and Entrepreneurship Ecosystem that will maximize the potential of the sector in terms of economic growth, job creation and sustainable development, and to anticipate, address and overcome the new challenges and trends of the tourism sector, in 2018 UNWTO developed a framework for Innovation, Education, Digital Transformation and Investments.
UNWTO Innovation Services 2020: A Year in Review
This past year has presented unprecedented challenges to the sector, but has also stimulated innovation to recover and build back a safer, more resilient sector. Entrepreneurs have provided ground-breaking ideas and solutions to reboot the sector, specially aimed at mitigating the impact of COVID-19. This year’s top winning and shortlisted Startups came from all regions of the world, especially Europe and the Americas.
UNSSC live with UNWTO on the UN Innovation Toolkit –Partnerships to Achieve the SDGs
Following the success of last year’s first United Nations Innovation Toolkit online event, the United Nations System Staff College (UNSSC) is hosting a second edition, geared towards fostering innovations in partnerships.
This is the second event, taking place on 25 February 2021 14:00-15:00 CET is hosted in collaboration with the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Google, the Vice Minister of Tourism of Colombia, Telefónica and Refundit. In the form of a moderated panel discussion, this multi-stakeholder event will explore the use and contextualization of the UN Innovation Toolkit, with a special focus on one of the critical pillars of innovation: Partnerships.
About Moccasin Trails Consulting
Moccasin Trails Consulting is an Indigenous-owned company dedicated to supporting economic development - specifically in Indigenous tourism, partnership building between Indigenous and non-Indigenous organizations, inspiring keynote presentations, skills development, training, and more.
Moccasin Trails Consulting is an Indigenous-owned company dedicated to supporting economic development - specifically in Indigenous tourism, partnership building between Indigenous and non-Indigenous organizations, inspiring keynote presentations, skills development, training, and more. The company was formed around Indigenous values, cultures, teachings, and beliefs, and therefore know how to navigate and recognize opportunity and hardship within Indigenous communities rural or urban.
Before the Pandemic Moccasin Trails also provided Cultural Tours of ancestral paths, which they look forward to continuing once restrictions permit.
One topic Remaining | Ideas Labs: Peer-to-Peer Learning for B.C. Tourism Business Operators
Ideas Labs are a series of online workshops on original topics requested by tourism operators across the province. The labs will bring small groups together in a business-to-business learning environment to address hot topics where solutions to common problems are discussed and shared, and new ideas are incubated.
Are you interested in joining tourism colleagues from around the province for engaging, informative, peer-to-peer learning sessions with a focus on sharing ideas and co-creating solutions?
Ideas Labs, a series of online workshops on tourism industry topics, are part of the BC Tourism Resiliency Network's suite of programs to support long term resiliency of tourism businesses as we collectively navigate the challenges of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. These 45-minute facilitated small group discussions are guided by a presentation from an inspiring Industry Topic Specialist.
Registration is now open for the last topic of the 2021 series:
Building Back Better: Contributing to a Better Future for Tourism
COVID-19 has presented the tourism industry with a choice to consider: emerge doing business as usual or use responsible, sustainable principles to contribute to a better future for the industry. This session explores ways that tourism can look at sustainable, responsible and regenerative practices as an investment in building back better for long-term returns. Andrea McFadden will kick start the Ideas Lab conversation, sharing what Okanagan Herb and Lavender Farm is doing to build back better and contribute to a better future for tourism.
Dates/times in Pacific Time:
February 17, 2021 at 10am
February 24, 2021 at 2pm
March 2, 2021 at 2pm
For more information and to register: https://tourismresiliency.ca/ideas-labs/
Space is limited to 12 participants across the province, so if you register, please attend or cancel with sufficient notice.
Market Segmentation Insights
To support businesses and communities, we will be supplying visitor and market insights to support Experience and Market Development for your Recovery Strategy.
NEW data is now available through Environics Analytics and we will share highlights as our new baseline report series is released. The updated system now profiles 67 market clusters. These clusters are associated with Destination Canada’s 9 Explorer Quotient market segmentation types known as “EQ”.
No matter how you need your market research profiled, we can access this information by activity, social values, demographics, psychographics and location….anywhere in Canada or the USA.
We can access 67 market profiles to define the ideal target audiences for your marketing campaigns. Through custom reports we can assist you in targeting these markets.
Quick Facts:
For your Recovery Planning – target the right markets for your experience offering. With over 67 profiles, here are some highlights of 3.
Affluent families and couples will have the means to keep travelling.
Highlights of Urban Sanctuary - The- A-LIST
The most affluent households in Canada with a net worth just under $5 million make up 90,425 households or 281,999 of the population with an average household income of $545,511. For the luxury market these University educated homeowners are clustered in Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver, Edmonton and Montreal.
Highlights of Middle-aged Upscale Suburbanites - Turbo Burbs
The wealthiest suburban segment, Turbo Burbs is a haven for middle-aged families found in the outer-ring subdivisions of a handful of large cities representing 162,533 households with an average household income of $212,649 and children between the ages of 10 and 25. More than 90 percent of households live in recently built single-detached homes, with an average dwelling value of more than $700,000. Top BC locations for this segment are the Kelowna, West Kelowna, Lake Country and Prince George
Highlights of Suburban, upscale middle-aged families – Family Mode
Comprising more than a million people, Family Mode is one of the largest segments— and growing. Home to large, suburban families living in recently built houses, this lifestyle is rooted in midsize cities surrounding large metro areas. Its neighbourhoods are filled with maintainers between 35 and 54, and children over the age of 10. The members of Family Mode straddle two worlds: close enough to downtown for their work but far enough away to enjoy outdoorsy activities. These families like golfing, gardening, canoeing and power boating. Average household income $141,436 making up 337,797 households. Top BC locations for this segment are Kamloops and Chilliwack.
Source: Environics Analytics
For more information on Research or Fees for Services Contact:
Kelly Galaski, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, Managing Director for Symphony Tourism Services
Kelly@totabc.com
778-721-5448
For more research information by TOTA, Visit us online at: https://totabc.org/research/
See more posts in the same category: Research
TOTA Fast Facts
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association presents Fast Facts, a biweekly research roundup to provide an ongoing snapshot of how the tourism industry is being impacted as a result of COVID-19 and an overview of how things are changing through the stages of recovery.
Tourism Research Summary
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is pleased to once again bring you Friday Fast Facts providing an ongoing snapshot of how the tourism industry is being impacted as a result of COVID-19 and an overview of how things are changing as we begin moving through these first stages of recovery.
We will continue to gain and share business intelligence and insights which come directly from tourism stakeholders in our region via telephone and online surveys; data from our partnership with Environics Analytics received and analyzed weekly, and additional research has been sourced through the UN World Tourism Organization, Destination Canada, Destination BC, British Columbia Regional Tourism Secretariat, BC Hotel Association, go2HR, Community DMO Partners, and others.
Now more than ever we understand the importance of providing timely data that will assist you in making informed decisions, understanding how industry and consumers are responding, both in the Thompson Okanagan and the province as a whole, and that will assist you in making adjustments to how you do business.
Watch for Friday Fast Fact bi-weekly and for more information please visit Research Roundup on TOTA News Centre.
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is proudly supported by the British Columbia Ministry of Tourism Arts and Culture.
- TOTA Research
Biweekly Fast Facts
Agri-Tourism Entrepreneur Skills Training Program: Now Accepting Applications for Central Okanagan Delivery
TOTA is now accepting applications for the Agri-Tourism Entrepreneur Skills Training Program, a free program to guide participants to develop a market-ready, shelf-stable product to offer in local retail, domestic, and international markets. The program will be delivered through a blend of online and in-person class sessions in Kelowna.
The application deadline is February 17, 2021. Please share this opportunity with farmers, crafters, and artisans in the Central Okanagan.
Course Dates:
February 26 - June 4, 2021 (13 weeks)
3 days / week, 9 AM - 4 PM
Delivered Online and In-Person (Kelowna)
Application Deadline:
February 17, 2021
TOTA has received government funding to provide tourism training skills programs and we are pleased to announce that applications are now being accepted for the Agri-Tourism Entrepreneur Skills Training Program, a free program to guide participants to develop a market-ready, shelf-stable product to offer in local retail, domestic, and international markets. The program will be delivered online and in-person in Kelowna.
The Agri-Tourism Entrepreneur Skills Training Program helps farmers, crafters, and artisans to launch and develop packaged food product lines from the Thompson Okanagan region. This 13-week, fully funded program will guide participants to develop a market-ready, shelf-stable product to offer in local retail, domestic, and international markets.
The blend of live online learning sessions, self-led online industry certificates, and hands-on practical experience in a processing kitchen will rapidly cover many topics aimed to expand small food businesses and support food processing in the Thompson Okanagan region.
Participants will come together 3 days per week in both virtual class sessions and in the processing kitchen, facilitated by a diverse roster of experienced small business instructors and industry guest speakers. The program will include virtual tours to connect participants directly to the Thompson Okanagan agri-tourism sector.
The program will involve participant teamwork and culminate in a presentation of the final agri-tourism product and business concept to a panel of industry experts.
Applicant Eligibility Requirements:
Living in the Central Okanagan area, with access to reliable transportation to commute to Kelowna for regularly scheduled in-person sessions.
Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and protected persons legally able to work in Canada.
Currently unemployed or precariously employed (casual, seasonal, or part-time) or employed but at risk and in need of training for new opportunities.
Over 15 years of age.
For more information:
Website: TOTABC.org/Training/agri-tourism
Email: Training@TOTABC.com
Phone: (778) 752-5877
Delivered by the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) in cooperation with the University of Victoria-Peter B. Gustavson School of Business and supported by the Government of Canada through the Canada-British Columbia Workforce Development Agreement.
Share This Opportunity
Feel free to share this opportunity with farmers, crafters, and artisans of the Thompson Okanagan looking to launch new product lines, particularly unemployed, at-risk, part-time, casual, and seasonal employees.
We have provided sample content to for you to share on bulletins, email newsletters, website listings, and social media:
TOTA Biosphere Team Introduction
This month we are featuring the team members that make up the Biosphere Commitment Program team at TOTA, which consists of five key members who come from various backgrounds and skill sets. From business development, community engagement to program analyst, the Biosphere Commitment Program team has a passion for evolving sustainability throughout the Thompson Okanagan by connecting directly with TOTA’s stakeholders.
This month we are featuring the team members that make up the Biosphere Commitment Program team at TOTA, which consists of five key members who come from various backgrounds and skill sets. From business development, community engagement to program analyst, the Biosphere Commitment Program team has a passion for evolving sustainability throughout the Thompson Okanagan by connecting directly with TOTA’s stakeholders.
"The Biosphere Commitment Program supports stakeholders to find a balance between the environmental, cultural and socio-economic dimensions of sustainability and attract visitors that value authentic, meaningful and sustainable experiences. I look forward to working with Biosphere Committed Companies and continuing to evolve this program to help measure your organization's sustainability performance over time."
- Kaitie, Director of Sustainability & Stewardship
"Sustainability is a complex topic with various elements, indicators and metrics that can sometimes be overwhelming. The good news is that you are not on this journey alone. The Biosphere Commitment Program supports your organization to develop a plan to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals that is measurable and effective. Biosphere provides value-added programs to support you on your sustainability journey and TOTA is continually working with our partners to provide additional development opportunities through assessments, training, toolkits and more."
- Louisa, Technology & Communications Coordinator
"Most of us don't realize that by simply reviewing our bills every month and just being aware of our daily energy use practices, we can cut down a lot on our utility costs. As TOTA's Energy Analyst, my job is to work with your business and identify those hidden low hanging fruits which could save you some dollars! All you have to do is let us know that you are interested!"
- Thivya, Energy Anaylst
"Being able to connect with the Biosphere members and help evolve the program has been a really fun project for me. Through Biosphere communications I enjoy discussing sustainable tourism support in the region and hearing Biosphere members stories. I look forward to connecting more with Biosphere Members in 2021 and reveal what we have been working on these past months."
- Amy, Regional Brand Ambassador
"Despite 2020 being one of the most challenging years for tourism businesses, we have seen Biosphere Committed Companies continue to make progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals and contribute to making the Thompson Okanagan a more responsible destination."
- Kavan, Event & Industry Relations Specialist
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association partners with Peter B. Gustavson School of Business to offer new virtual Tourism Skill Training Program
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has teamed up with the Peter B. Gustavson School of Business, University of Victoria, BC to provide job readiness training for Thompson Okanagan residents through a new, free certificate program.
Victoria, British Columbia (Jan 28 , 2021) – The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has teamed up with the Peter B. Gustavson School of Business, University of Victoria, BC to provide job readiness training for Thompson Okanagan residents through a new, free certificate program.
In this fully funded, online learning program, participants will receive instruction, mentorship, employment coaching, and job placement support delivered full-time over 13 weeks. The new Thompson Okanagan Tourism Skills Training Program will prepare participants to work within all areas of the tourism and hospitality industry. Blending live virtual learning sessions and self-led online industry certificate programs, the program covers the changing landscape of the tourism industry, with featured guest speakers and virtual tours to connect participants to the typically dynamic and growing Thompson Okanagan tourism industry.
“During this unfortunate tourism slowdown, this is a great opportunity for tourism workers to upskill,” said Saul Klein, Dean of the Gustavson School of Business. “We are proud to be partnering with the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association to help provide opportunities for those working in industries hard-hit by the pandemic.”
“Once we are finally in the recovery stage of tourism opening up once again across the Thompson Okanagan, we know that labour will be in high demand,” said Ellen Walker-Matthews, TOTA Sr. Vice President and Acting CEO . “We hope people see this as a tremendous opportunity to learn about the many career opportunities in the tourism industry that are available today and for the future.”
Developed in response to the decline of international tourism and the increase in domestic tourism in 2021, this program will support people whose jobs have been impacted by COVID-19, as well as help Thompson Okanagan businesses capitalize on domestic tourism through skills development for the region’s tourism labour force.
The program hopes to attract new Canadians, persons with disabilities and Indigenous people. Workers over 55 years of age are also encouraged to apply. Applicants also must be currently unemployed or precariously employed (casual, seasonal, or part-time). The application deadline is February 3, 2021, with classes held February 8 to May 5, 2021. Up to 60 students will be accommodated, with a second similar program being planned for March. For more information about the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Skills Training Program, please visit TOTABC.org/Training.
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About the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests throughout the Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia. Supported by the British Columbia 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. For more information, visit TOTABC.org.
About the Peter B. Gustavson School of Business
The Peter B. Gustavson School of Business at the University of Victoria is dedicated to providing a non-traditional business education and a dynamic learning environment that develops principled managers and leaders who can drive innovation and social change. Located in Victoria, BC at the University of Victoria, Gustavson is among the fewer than one percent of the world's business schools that hold both AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) and EQUIS (European Quality Improvement System) accreditation. Gustavson offers BCom, MBA, MGB, MM and PhD programs, and has 104 international exchange partners. For more information, visit: uvic.ca/gustavson.
Media Contact
Kathryn Wu
Account Manager
Beattie Tartan
C: 604-968-5153
E: Kathryn.Wu@beattiegroup.com
TOTA Fast Facts
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association presents Fast Facts, a biweekly research roundup to provide an ongoing snapshot of how the tourism industry is being impacted as a result of COVID-19 and an overview of how things are changing through the stages of recovery.
Tourism Research Summary
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is pleased to bring you TOTA Fast Facts, an ongoing snapshot of how the tourism industry has been impacted as a result of COVID-19 and an overview of how things are changing as we begin moving through the stages of recovery. This timely data will assist you in making informed decisions through understanding how industry and consumers are responding, both in the Thompson Okanagan and the province as a whole.
Business intelligence and insights are collected from tourism stakeholders in our region; data from our partnership with Environics Analytics; and research through the UN World Tourism Organization, Destination Canada, Destination BC, British Columbia Regional Tourism Secretariat, BC Hotel Association, go2HR, Community DMO Partners, and others.
Biweekly Fast Facts
Ideas Labs: Peer-To-Peer Learning For B.C. Tourism Business Operators
Ideas Labs are 45-minute facilitated online sessions led by an Industry Topic Specialist and The Tourism Cafe, brought to you by the BC Tourism Resiliency Network. The sessions bring small groups together in a business-to-business learning environment to address hot topics where solutions to common problems are discussed and shared, and new ideas are incubated.
Are you interested in joining tourism colleagues from around the province for engaging, informative, peer-to-peer learning sessions with a focus on sharing ideas and co-creating solutions?
From January to March 2021, the BC Tourism Resiliency Network together with the Tourism Café and the BC Regional Tourism Secretariat are pleased to be launching a new series of 12 Ideas Labs on four original topics selected by industry across the province
Ideas Labs are part of the BC Tourism Resiliency Network's suite of programs to support long term resiliency of tourism businesses as we collectively navigate the challenges of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. These 45-minute facilitated small group discussions are guided by a presentation from an inspiring Industry Topic Specialist.
For more information and to register: https://tourismresiliency.ca/ideas-labs/
Space is limited to 12 participants across the province, so if you register, please attend or cancel with sufficient notice.
Tourism Skills Training Program: Application Now Open for Free Virtual Certification
TOTA has received government funding to provide tourism training skills programs and we are pleased to announce that applications are now being accepted for this free Domestic Tourism Certification for the Thompson Okanagan Region.
This 13-week full-time virtual program is an opportunity for unemployed, casual, seasonal and part-time employees to upgrade their skills, knowledge, and industry connections to overcome the challenges through this uncertain time.
Online Course Dates:
February 8 - May 5, 2021 (Mon - Thurs, 9 AM - 4 PM)
Application Deadline:
February 3, 2021
Limited seats available
TOTA has received government funding to provide tourism training skills programs and we are pleased to announce that applications are now being accepted for the Canadian Tourism Professional (CTP) Program, a free Domestic Tourism Certification for the Thompson Okanagan Region.
This 13-week full-time virtual program is an opportunity for unemployed, casual, seasonal and part-time employees to upgrade their skills, knowledge, and industry connections to overcome the challenges through this uncertain time.
The Canadian Tourism Professional Program will prepare 60 participants to work in various tourism and hospitality positions in the Thompson Okanagan region with a focus on serving domestic markets in traditional employment and/or self-employment. Participants will receive instruction, mentorship, employment coaching, and job placement support.
Applicant Eligibility Requirements:
Living in Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia (including Shuswap, Boundary Country, Similkameen, and Gold Country/Nicola Valley)
Legally able to work in Canada
Currently unemployed or working casual, seasonal, or part-time
Over 15 years of age
For more information:
Website: TOTABC.org/Training
Email: Training@TOTABC.com
Phone: (778) 752-5877
Delivered by the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) in cooperation with the University of Victoria-Peter B. Gustavson School of Business and supported by the Province of British Columbia.
Share This Opportunity
Feel free to share this opportunity with potential employees of the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry, particularly unemployed or part-time, casual, and seasonal employees looking to expand their career.
We have provided sample content to share on bulletins, email newsletters, website listings, and social media:
BC Hospitality & Tourism Industry Update & 2021 Outlook
The BC Hotel Association, Tourism Industry Association of BC, and the BC Regional Tourism Secretariat outlined the state of the Tourism & Hospitality industry and mapped the outlook for 2021.
The BC Hotel Association, Tourism Industry Association of BC, and the BC Regional Tourism Secretariat outlined the state of the Tourism & Hospitality industry and mapped the outlook for 2021.
Small and Medium-Sized Business Recovery Grant Eligibility Changes: Tourism Businesses Eligible for Up to $45,000 Non-Repayable Grant
The B.C. government has enhanced the Small and Medium-Sized Business Recovery Grant program to make it easier for businesses to qualify and has increased support for those in the hard-hit tourism sector. Tourism businesses impacted by the pandemic will be eligible to receive between $10,000 and $45,000 in a non-repayable grant.
The B.C. government has enhanced the Small and Medium-Sized Business Recovery Grant program to make it easier for businesses to qualify and has increased support for those in the hard-hit tourism sector.
Tourism businesses impacted by the pandemic will be eligible to receive between $10,000 and $45,000 in a non-repayable grant.
Adjustments made to the Small and Medium-Sized Business Recovery Grant program include a streamlined application process and simplified criteria to allow more businesses to be eligible.
Eligibility changes include:
instead of requiring a revenue loss of 50% or more, the criteria has been reduced to 30% at the time of application;
the requirement to list a variety of remittance accounts, like the registration numbers for the goods and services tax, provincial sales tax and WorkSafeBC, have been removed;
businesses that have been in operation for the last 18 months are now eligible (reduced from three years). This means businesses only need to have been in operation nine months before the pandemic to apply for the grant;
applications can now be submitted by sole proprietors; and
businesses that are temporarily closed or seasonal are now eligible for the program.
The revised application process and eligibility criteria are now in place. Small- and medium-sized businesses are encouraged to apply.
For more information on the Small and Medium-Sized Business Recovery Grant program, including the application process and eligibility, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/economic-recovery/business-recovery-grant
About StrongerBC
The grant is part of StrongerBC: BC’s Economic Recovery Plan, which outlines the steps the Government of British Columbia is taking to help people, businesses and communities come out of COVID-19 stronger and better prepared. The changes to the Small and Medium-Sized Business Recovery Grant program were made in consultation with industry associations and business groups that represent the small and medium-sized business community.
For more information on StrongerBC, visit: StrongerBC.gov.bc.ca
State of the Indigenous Tourism Video Released by Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada
Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) released a State of Indigenous Tourism Industry video showcasing the devastating impact of COVID-19. This emotional video showcases members from across Canada, including Thompson Okanagan’s Moccasin Trails, an Indigenous tour company operated by TOTA’s past Board Chair, Frank Antoine.
Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) released a State of Indigenous Tourism Industry video showcasing the devastating impact of COVID-19 on the Indigenous tourism industry at their 2020 AGM on December 15. Tied to ITAC’s second wave response and advocacy efforts to the Federal Government, ITAC hopes to receive the requested $18.2 M to support the Indigenous tourism industry and its immediate needs.
This emotional video showcases members from across Canada, including Thompson Okanagan’s Moccasin Trails, an Indigenous tour company operated by TOTA’s past Board Chair, Frank Antoine. In the video, Frank speaks about the challenges for Indigenous tourism companies at 3:24, 4:00, 6:02, and 8:14.
Watch the State of Indigenous Tourism Industry Video
About the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada
The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) is the lead organization tasked with growing the Indigenous tourism industry across the country. Inspired by a vision for a thriving Indigenous tourism economy sharing authentic, memorable and enriching experiences, ITAC develops relationships with other groups and regions with similar mandates. By uniting the Indigenous tourism industry in Canada, ITAC works to enable collective support, product development, promotion and marketing of authentic Indigenous cultural tourism businesses in a respectful protocol. Due to COVID-19, ITAC recently released a report on the financial challenges facing Indigenous tourism operators and recommended stimulus solutions. As well, a 2020-2021 revised action plan focused on sustaining Indigenous tourism in the face of COVID-19 was released in March.
Expansion of Midway Trail Network Through Community Collaboration
After a storm caused tremendous damage to the Midway Trail Network in 2018, Osoyoos Indian Band, West Boundary Community Forest, community volunteers, and foresters worked together to restore the recreational use trails in Boundary Country and develop 1,000 meters of new trail, which can accessed through the existing Midway Trail Network. Hikers and bikers can now experience areas in the community forest that were to overgrown or filled with downed trees.
A new trail in the Midway Trail Network
After a storm caused tremendous damage to the Midway Trail Network in 2018, Osoyoos Indian Band, West Boundary Community Forest, community volunteers, and foresters worked together to restore the recreational use trails in Boundary Country and develop 1,000 meters of new trail, which can accessed through the existing Midway Trail Network. Hikers and bikers can now experience areas in the community forest that were to overgrown or filled with downed trees.
The need for the project started in the summer of 2018 when a strong windstorm came through the southern Boundary region and blew over a vast number of trees.
Midway may only have a population of 649 people, but the community hosts thousands of visitors throughout the year who venture into the West Boundary Community Forest (WBCF) to explore the extensive Midway Trails network on mountain bike, snowshoes, or hiking. As locals, visitors, and school groups are actively out in the Community Forest, it was to proactively improve the health of the forest for future generations, and to remove dead and fallen trees that could pose a wildfire threat.
“This project has been a community effort,” said Dan Macmaster, Fibre Manager for Vaagen Fibre Canada and Forest Manager of the WBCF. “Our team at Vaagen worked to develop the prescription, and then supervise and implement the work using funding dollars provided by FESBC and the WBCF. This project is on actively used trail systems, so it was important to engage the community to ensure their involvement and buy in, including our First Nations partners in the planning and implementation phases.”
The Osoyoos Indian Band and their forestry team provided archaeology assessments at the outset and members of the Band have been involved in post-harvest treatments like bucking and piling trees.
“This project work has been a very light touch on the landscape using an innovative harvesting/forwarding system to minimize soil disturbance. Plus, we are doing hand treatments where possible,” said Macmaster. “We’ve even had school groups come in to learn more about their community forest and do some of the hands-on work.”
Through daily inspections by the Midway Trail Society volunteers, blowdown from the storm was noted as significant, and an aerial inspection by the WBCF verified the extent of the damage. Because the area is already susceptible to the Douglas-fir beetle, the downed trees needed to be removed to prevent further infestation in the local forest. The Mayors of Midway and Greenwood were very supportive of the project, and a Director of the WBCF Board has heard excellent reviews from local residents and community leaders alike.
“We are pleased to see the hard work of so many make an improved difference for our Community Forest and for the Midway Trails,” said Ross Elliot, Director on the Board of the WBCF. “We expressed early on to the Midway Trails Society members and to the residents of Midway and Greenwood who have joint ownership of this Community Forest that there was a lot of work to be done. The $94,200 in FESBC funding, in conjunction with a $139,500 contribution from the WBCF, has allowed us to get the work underway. Moving forward, we will continue to rely on our community volunteers to maintain the trails well into the future for everyone to enjoy.”
Noting the many benefits of the project is FESBC Operations Manager, Gord Pratt: “Our team likes to see projects that request FESBC-funding cover a number of our purposes, and this project is doing just that. Not only are excessive fuel loads being reduced to mitigate increased wildfire risk, but the work is making the forest healthier. This in turn helps create enhanced wildlife habitat, maintain forest recreation opportunities, and ensures timber supply for future generations. When marginal stands can be harvested and brought to the local mill, projects like this also create economic benefits, including jobs for the community.”
To see the project area in relation to the Midway Trails System, visit the West Boundary Community Forest website. The interpretive trail map signs will be updated for 2021.
Submitted by Forest Enhancement Society of BC