News & Resources
The latest Thompson Okanagan tourism industry news from TOTA, tourism businesses, and communities.
go2HR - Shift Into Winter | Driving Tips & Safety for BC Drivers
go2HR has compiled winter driving resources to support tourism businesses through the changing weather and driving conditions across B.C. and to remind drivers and employers to be prepared and plan ahead.
The Shift into Winter campaign is designed to raise awareness of the changing weather and driving conditions across B.C. and to remind drivers and employers to be prepared and plan ahead. In the tourism and hospitality industry, some occupations that involve winter driving include:
Delivery drivers (including dropping off rental equipment or providing a restaurant delivery service, for example)
Shuttle bus and taxi drivers
Snow plow and removal
Traffic and grounds management vehicles (parking attendants)
Emergency Transport Vehicles (ETVs) in some remote locations
When planning a work journey, consider the following tips to help keep drivers safe on the job:
Does the worker have to drive? Could the business be conducted online or in a different way?
Ensure drivers are aware of the risks they may be exposed to while driving, are trained, and have the equipment and supervision needed (including regular check ins) to keep themselves safe
Ensure driver checks the route and knows where they are going (avoid driving after dark)
Ensure vehicles are properly maintained and winterized, and have four winter tires that carry the 3-peaked mountain and snowflake symbol
Make sure drivers know when and how to safely and properly install chains or other approved traction devices
Equip vehicles with a winter driving emergency kit and emergency supplies
Train workers on your motor vehicle accident reporting procedure, should something happen
Don’t forget the commute to and from work:
Many workers regularly drive their own vehicles to and from work in varying weather conditions. This includes those who work at ski resorts or in parts of the province that are prone to harsh winter weather. To raise awareness about winter driving, consider the following:
Post signage in the workplace about winter driving tips, what an emergency kit should contain and other useful information
Have a working late policy (if they're one of the last to leave the mountain they should make sure someone knows when they leave and when they get to the bottom of the mountain, in case they get stranded on the way down.)
Promote winter driving resources, including training and other information
Winter driving resources
Visit ShiftIntoWinter.ca for free information and tools associated with this campaign:
Download the Employer and Supervisor Tool Kit.
Register for the Keeping Your Employees Safe During Winter Driving webinar on November 25.
Register for the Winter Driving Safety for Employers and Supervisors course, which takes 90-120 minutes to complete. Everyone who completes the course and an exit survey by December 15 will be entered in a draw for a gift certificate for a set of winter tires (value up to $1,000), donated by Kal Tire. For details, visit: Shift Into Winter.
View go2HR's Winter Driving Resources for further tips, posters and checklists.
Register for Okanagan College Business Expo & Employment Fair: February 2, 2022
Okanagan College/Okanagan School of Business and the Student, Graduate and Co-op Employment Centre is excited to be hosting their 14th Annual Business Expo and Employment Fair on February 2, 2022 at the Okanagan College KLO Kelowna Campus.
Register by November 30 for the early bird discount.
Okanagan College/Okanagan School of Business and the Student, Graduate and Co-op Employment Centre are excited to be hosting their 14th Annual Business Expo and Employment Fair on February 2, 2022 at the Okanagan College KLO Kelowna Campus. Specifically, this event will be taking place in the atrium of the “Centre for Learning” building.
The event will provide the opportunity to promote your organization and to connect with the skilled students from ALL Okanagan College programs (Business, Engineering Technologies, Health, Trades, Office Administration, Computer Information Systems and Arts and Science) – both graduating this year and those continuing with their studies with the business community in hopes of fulfilling job vacancies within your organization.
This event will also provide the opportunity to display information on employment and careers within your organization. Generally there are approximately 1000 students who attend the fair. The fair is also open to job seekers from the public.
Early Bird Registration Discount before November 30
Cultural Grants for Kelowna Non-Profit Organizations | City of Kelowna
The City of Kelowna is offering five categories of arts and culture grants to non-profit organizations on an annual basis. The purpose of these grants is to enrich the art, culture and heritage experience for Kelowna. An organization must be incorporated as a non-profit society and operate primarily in Kelowna to be eligible for a grant.
The City of Kelowna is offering five categories of arts and culture grants to non-profit organizations on an annual basis. The purpose of these grants is to enrich the art, culture and heritage experience for Kelowna residents.
An organization must be incorporated as a non-profit society and operate primarily in Kelowna to be eligible for a grant. Organizations may apply for grants under more than one category in the same calendar year.
General operating grants are available to arts, culture and heritage organizations that carry out most of their work in Kelowna. These grants support the operations of the organization, but are not to be used for start-up, events or capital projects. This grant acknowledges the work these organizations do and how they positively contribute to Kelowna's quality of life, identity and economy. Grants are extended to recipients who demonstrate vision, accountability and a spirit of community service in their operations.
The 2022 General Operating program opened on October 1, 2021.
Please apply through the online application system.
The application deadline is November 30, 2021 at 3pm PST.
For more information, view the program guidelines.
Project grants are available to community organizations that provide a festival, event or project that feature arts, culture and/or heritage for the benefit of Kelowna residents. Eligible organizations are not required to be from the arts, culture or heritage sector.
All festivals, events and projects must be accessible to the public, offer a unique experience and prominently feature arts, culture or heritage content. Funding is provided for up to a maximum of three years on a matching 50/50 basis.
The 2022 Project program opened on October 1, 2021. Please apply through the online application system.
The application deadline is November 30, 2021 at 3pm PST.
For more information, view the program guidelines.
Organization development grants aim to assist non-profit organizations in undertaking activities or initiatives that will develop the organization’s capacity and sustainability. Funding can be used to cover 100% of the consulting or tuition/registration costs, to a maximum of $5,000. Two or more organizations may partner on an organization development project and undertake joint planning or training.
Deadline: Open in-take for 2021
More information, including contact information, program guidelines and the screening tool is available on the main grants page.
Please apply through the online application system.
Community art is a collaborative, collective creative process between a professional artist and the community. It encourages the creation of publicly accessible artworks, fosters community pride and identity, and reflects the diversity of the community. One or more projects will be considered each year based on the applications received and reviewed by the Public Art Committee. Funding is provided on a matching 50/50 basis. We welcome proposals for projects using either traditional or new art practices.
It’s advised that applicants should connect with Cultural Services Staff at culture@kelowna.ca prior to completing an application to determine eligibility.
Professional operating grants are here to provide consistent and reliable annual support to professional, established non-profit arts and cultural organizations which provide impactful, quality programs and services, demonstrate sustainable operations and contribute to the realization of the cultural vision, principals and goals as outlined in the Cultural Plan. Funding assists these organizations with operational sustainability and enables them to develop and deliver their wonderful programs and services to the community.
For more information about the program, view the program guidelines.
Summer 2021 Kettle Valley Rail Trail Upgrades Complete
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) in coordination with the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) and Recreation Sites and Trails BC (RSTBC) have completed trail improvements along the Kettle Valley Rail (KVR) Trail, in the Central Okanagan.
Upgrades were implemented to improve the trail users experience
Before
After
Kelowna, B.C. - The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) in coordination with the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) and Recreation Sites and Trails BC (RSTBC) have completed trail improvements along the Kettle Valley Rail (KVR) Trail, in the Central Okanagan. TOTA's involvement was primarily the 16 km section between Bellevue Trestle (above Kelowna) and Chute Lake, two very popular sections of the KVR.
The improvements included raising the tread (trail surface) of selected sections that saw annual flooding, followed by capping of the repaired sub base with 1.91 cm minus aggregate to create a rideable trail tread and prevent any drainage issues. Locations were identified by a professional Geotechnical Engineer and the project was completed using heavy machinery and hauling up the proper aggregate.
The work upgrades were undertaken to improve the worst segments of the approximately 16 km subsection of trail. Altogether, approximately 20 segments were repaired making up about 3 km of accumulated trail surface. These improvements are necessary to enhance the overall user experience along the KVR. TOTA will continue to work with partners to evaluate future areas of need, working to develop a world class cycling experience, which will encourage sustainable and responsible tourism to the Thompson Okanagan region.
The KVR is a remote trail that has ongoing maintenance challenges, and users should prepare accordingly for differing trail conditions dependent on the season.
TOTA is pleased to have undertaken this work to create a better KVR experience through the support of Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) and the Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure (CERIP) program funding, received through the Ministry of Forest Lands Natural Resource Operations & Rural Development to enable TOTA to contribute to this project and implement these changes along the trail. We also appreciate the work that many have undertaken to improve the trail over the past many months, including the RDOS, RSTBC, Chute Lake Lodge and others.
About
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 region, and is supported by and representative of Destination British Columbia British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, Arts, & Culture. It 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. For more information about the KVR Trail visit bcrailtrails.com.
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure
Ministry of Forest Lands Natural Resource Operations & Rural Development
BC Liquor Conference | ABLE BC
Hosted by ABLE BC, the #1 advocate for BC’s pubs and liquor stores, this year’s conference will take place online and in-person on Monday, October 25, 2021.
No matter where you are in the province – tune in and get the liquor industry data, trends, and policy updates you can’t get anywhere else.
Hosted by ABLE BC, the #1 advocate for BC’s pubs and liquor stores, this year’s conference will take place online and in-person on Monday, October 25, 2021. No matter where you are in the province – tune in and get the liquor industry data, trends, and policy updates you can’t get anywhere else.
BC’s hospitality industry was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. The liquor industry has been forced to adapt and drastically change in this new normal, while complying with stringent new regulations that have limited your ability to operate profitably.
Join ABLE BC at the 2021 Hybrid BC Liquor Conference and get the actionable steps and knowledge you need to rebuild after COVID-19.
TIAC Tourism Congress
The tourism industry’s must-attend annual event, the 2021 Tourism Congress, is an opportunity to network, connect and learn alongside delegates from coast to coast to coast. You’ll gain access to national and global industry insights, get relevant updates from your region and sector, and experience practical sessions that give you the tools you need to move forward.
Tuesday Nov 30 - Wednesday Dec 1
The TIAC Tourism Congress brings tourism operators together. As Canada’s visitor economy continued to struggle under the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism operators have been incredibly resilient.
The tourism industry’s must-attend annual event, the 2021 Tourism Congress, is an opportunity to network, connect and learn alongside delegates from coast to coast to coast. You’ll gain access to national and global industry insights, get relevant updates from your region and sector, and experience practical sessions that give you the tools you need to move forward.
This year, the 2021 TIAC Tourism Congress will have thought-provoking content to inform and inspire, and practical tools and solutions for the way forward. Join us in person at the Westin Ottawa or connect through our user-friendly virtual platform
Tuesday Nov 30 - Wednesday Dec 1
New Business Supports Now Available for Thompson Okanagan Tourism Businesses
The TOTA and BC Tourism Resiliency Network teams have prepared several new business support programs to assist tourism businesses. The programs are available free of charge for Thompson Okanagan tourism companies.
We encourage you and your team members to register as soon as possible, to take advantage of these programs while they are available.
Supports include:
Thompson Okanagan Wildfire Resilience Roundtable this Tuesday, October 5
Decade of Action Program: Building a Sustainable Future for BC Tourism - Apply by Friday, October 8
Business Mentorship Sessions with Okanagan College Instructors
BCRTS Tourism Summit 2021 - November 3 & 4
Hospitality Professional Program - Apply by November 28
TOTA Complimentary Energy Assessments & FortisBC Equipment Rebate Support
Change Management Webinar Recording & Skill Building Exercises
Happy autumn and welcome to October. With the changing of the seasons, the TOTA and BC Tourism Resiliency Network teams have prepared several new business support programs to assist tourism businesses. The programs are available free of charge for Thompson Okanagan tourism companies.
We encourage you and your team members to register as soon as possible, to take advantage of these programs while they are available.
Supports include:
Thompson Okanagan Wildfire Resilience Roundtable this Tuesday
Decade of Action Program: Building a Sustainable Future for BC Tourism - Apply by October 8
Business Mentorship Sessions with Okanagan College Instructors
BCRTS Tourism Summit 2021 - November 3 & 4
Hospitality Professional Program - Apply by October 29
TOTA Complimentary Energy Assessments & FortisBC Equipment Rebate Support
Change Management Webinar Recording & Skill Building Exercises
Read on to learn the details of the support programs and how to register your company. Feel free to forward this email to anyone who may benefit from these services.
- The TOTA Team
Upcoming Opportunities
Thompson Okanagan Wildfire Resilience Roundtable
Virtual | October 5, 10 AM - 11 AM
The British Columbia Tourism Resiliency Network is hosting a virtual Wildfire Resilience Roundtable for the Thompson Okanagan region on Tuesday, October 5 from 2 PM to 3 PM. The session will begin with a wildfire scenario developed from the guest perspective, tailored to reflect the realistic and relevant needs of the region.
In this roundtable session, you'll learn more about:
Developing a shared understanding of the impacts a wildfire may have on guests
How messaging can influence guest confidence and safety
Generating a repository of solutions or resources that either currently exist or could be developed to support guests and tourism operators
Decade of Action Program: Building a Sustainable Future for BC Tourism
Virtual | Apply by October 8, 2021
The Decade of Action Program: Building a Sustainable Future for BC Tourism through the UN Sustainable Development Goals is a virtual capacity-building program to support businesses across B.C. to create a Sustainable Development Goal Strategy and Decade of Action Plan.
Decade of Action Seminar (Tuesday, October 19, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM PST)
Business Action Planning and One-on-One Coaching Calls (October - December)
Decade of Action Showcase (Thursday, November 18, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM PST)
Learn how to align your sustainability efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals, set targets for the future, and drive meaningful results for your guests, company, and community.
Free Business Mentorship Sessions with Okanagan College Instructors
Virtual | One on one
Okanagan College instructors are available to deliver virtual, one-hour individually tailored business counselling sessions based on expressed areas of need.
This service is offered free of charge through the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Resiliency Program, for a limited time. Mentors can provide support on a variety of leadership soft skills, business administration, and hospitality topics.
To access the service, register for the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Resiliency Program and schedule a Discovery Call with a TOTA Advisor.
If you have already registered for the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Resiliency Program, you can sign up for Expert Business Mentorship and schedule your first meeting with an Okanagan College mentor.
BCRTS Tourism Summit 2021
Virtual | November 3 & 4, 2021
On November 3 and 4, come together as a tourism community to learn from everything we've been through and think differently about how we can co-create a vibrant and resilient tourism industry in BC. The BCRTS Tourism Summit 2021 is a joint virtual event, in collaboration with the five regional destination management organizations of the British Columbia Regional Tourism Secretariat (BCRTS) and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).
The BCRTS Tourism Summit 2021 is open to all tourism stakeholders and GSTC members at no cost.
Hospitality Professional Program - Fully Funded Training for New & Underemployed Tourism Professionals Hosted by TOTA & Okanagan College
Virtual | Winter 2021/2022
Application Deadline: November 28, 2021
Do you know current hospitality professionals looking to build on their hospitality management career by further developing their skills, knowledge and connections? Someone eager to develop the tools and resources necessary to thrive in the evolving world of hospitality?
TOTA, in partnership with Okanagan College, is offering the fully funded Hospitality Professional Program to unemployed, seasonal, part-time, and casual workers.
This 28-week LIVE online learning program pairs practical, unique and intensive hospitality skills training with key industry certifications so participants can jump into a supervisory position in 2022.
Ongoing Opportunities
Tourism Resiliency Business Support Services
The TOTA team is here to help with the challenges your business is facing. As part of TOTA's Tourism Resiliency Program tourism companies can access the following free supports:
Register for 1:1 Business Support with a TOTA Resiliency Advisor.
Submit a Voice Your Concerns form so TOTA can share the impacts on the tourism industry with government.
Email Recovery@TOTABC.com for quick questions or to share challenges faced by your business.
TOTA Complimentary Energy Assessments & FortisBC Equipment Rebate Support
TOTA is offering complimentary virtual energy assessments and free one-on-one equipment rebate consultations to Thompson Okanagan tourism companies that are serviced by FortisBC. The goal is to help businesses reduce their energy-related operating and capital expenses, energy consumption, and carbon footprint.
TOTA’s Energy Analyst can assist in choosing the right equipment eligible for rebates, submitting a rebate application to FortisBC, and guide you throughout the process.
To book your complimentary virtual energy assessment or to find out if your business is eligible for rebates, book a free appointment with TOTA's Energy Analyst.
Accommodation Accessibility Features Survey
Accommodators (resorts, hotels, motels, B&B) in the Thompson Okanagan region are invited to share information about the accessibility features of their venue.
Please take a few moments to fill out this survey to better help us identify the accessible accommodations available in the Thompson Okanagan region.
Change Management Webinar Recording & Skill Building Exercises
COVID-19 and climate change have caused frequent disruptions and major changes to the workplace for tourism and hospitality businesses. As this trend of change will likely continue, business leaders can prepare by developing a dynamic and resilient team.
Watch the webinar recording by Angela Pomeroy, Engagement and Leadership Development Consultant and Okanagan College professor, for insights on the principles of Change Management, followed by a pre-recorded video with exercises to develop change management skills for individuals or teams.
Introduction to Sustainable Tourism Presentation
TOTA’s Destination Stewardship team offers 30-minute virtual presentations to share how tourism businesses can work towards sustainable tourism through TOTA's Biosphere Commitment Program.
Westbank First Nation Launches Online Language Program
On September 30, 2021, The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Westbank First Nation (WFN) launched an online language tutorial series in effort to revitalize nsyilxcən language learning within the community. WFN received $100,000 from the First People’s Cultural Council through their Pathways to Language Vitality Program that helped to support developing materials, immersion programming, planning and community collaboration.
On September 30, 2021, on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the Westbank First Nation (WFN) launched an online language tutorial series in effort to revitalize nsyilxcən language learning within the community. WFN received $100,000 from the First People’s Cultural Council through their Pathways to Language Vitality Program that helped to support developing materials, immersion programming, planning and community collaboration.
Initially, the program was intended to have in person teachings, but as a pandemic precaution the curriculum was reworked into online modules.
Over 45 video tutorials were created featuring WFN Councillor Jordan Coble and ONA Member Levi Bent, utilizing Book 1 of the Paul Creek nsyilxcən curriculum and making it the first language series of its kind. The program would not have been possible without the support and hard work of language speakers, past and present who champion the nsyilxcən language in the community.
The program is entirely online and can be completed at any pace. Students can work through there lessons on their own schedule and will always have access to the lessons and resources. The tutorial series is open to everyone with a goal to revitalize nsyilxcən language for the syilx nation and guests who visit the website.
Winter Tire Regulations Now in Effect
As of Friday, Oct. 1, 2021, winter tires are mandatory for all vehicles until spring on most British Columbia highways, including all highways in the Interior.
With cold-weather season approaching, drivers and vehicle owners are reminded that B.C.’s annual winter tire requirements are in effect.
As of Friday, Oct. 1, 2021, winter tires are mandatory for all vehicles on most British Columbia highways to increase travel safety until spring.
Winter tires are required for travel on:
all highways in the North;
all highways in the Interior;
sections of some highways on the South Coast, including the Sea to Sky Highway; and
sections of some highways on Vancouver Island, including the Malahat and highways 4, 14 and 28.
In B.C., appropriate winter tires are defined as those with either the M+S (mud and snow) or mountain/snowflake symbol, in good condition with a minimum tread depth of 3.5 millimetres.
Tires marked with a mountain/snowflake symbol on the sidewall offer the best traction on snow and ice and in cold weather. Tires marked with M+S offer better traction than summer tires, but are less effective than mountain/snowflake tires in severe winter conditions. Drivers are encouraged to choose their tires based on the region and conditions in which they regularly drive.
Digital Jumpstart - Digital Skills for People With Disabilities | Neil Squire Society
Do you have an employee with a disability who would like to upgrade their digital skills? Neil Squire’s Digital Jumpstart is an online program that helps people with disabilities improve their digital literacy. The goal of the program is to tutor individuals one-on-one so that they can feel more confident in their computer readiness.
Do you have an employee with a disability who would like to upgrade their digital skills?
Neil Squire’s Digital Jumpstart is an online program that helps people with disabilities improve their digital literacy. The goal of the program is to tutor individuals one-on-one so that they can feel more confident in their computer readiness.
How Does It Work?
Participants will work one-on-one with an instructor in a virtual, private classroom from the comfort of their own homes. The program covers topics based on the needs of each individual and may include the basics of:
Email
Word processing (Microsoft Office)
The internet
Virtual platforms (Zoom and Microsoft Teams)
Social media
Online safety
The program taps into Neil Squire’s nearly 20 years of experience providing support to people with disabilities using remote technology. The participant and instructor will be able to talk and see each other’s screens, allowing active learning to occur regardless of where they are located in Canada.
“I felt stranded and alone and scared. People throw around the word isolated when talking about COVID. I was truly isolated and Neil Squire was a lifeline to me.”
— Hayley
“I want people to realize if I can do it, anybody can do it. [Neil Squire] helped me beyond what I thought. They actually have me thinking my goals might be possible. And that’s a big plus for me.”
— Jaycee
Digital Jumpstart is available in all regions across Canada. Please contact the office location nearest you to get started.
British Columbia
Patty Lavakittichaiyant
T 604 473 9363
Toll Free 1 877 673 4636
info@neilsquire.ca
Accommodation Accessibility Features Survey
Accommodators (resorts, hotels, motels, B&B) in the Thompson Okanagan region are invited to share information about the accessibility features of their venue.
Please take a few moments to fill out this survey to better help us identify the accessible accommodations available in the Thompson Okanagan region.
TOTA is committed to becoming a world-renowned accessible destination and the goal is to promote “Access & Inclusion” in all aspects of community and tourism experiences, products, and services in the Thompson Okanagan region.
Accommodators (resorts, hotels, motels, B&B) in the Thompson Okanagan region are invited to share information about the accessibility features of their venue.
Please take a few moments to fill out this survey to better help us identify the accessible accommodations available in the Thompson Okanagan region.
Join as a Member of the Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC)
Joining as a member enables TIABC to support important advocacy efforts on behalf of the entire visitor economy. Due to the difficulties the tourism industry has faced since early 2020, TIABC has extended various payment options to members if required.
Membership in TIABC has never been more important. The impacts of COVID-19 have been widespread in the tourism industry and coordination with industry partners to share concerns with government is critical.
To assist in recovery for BC’s visitor economy and generate incremental revenues for operators and government, TIABC needs the right mix of marketing investment, infrastructure and product development, access to labour, and policies that facilitate and enable success. That’s where TIABC comes in.
TIABC remains steadfast in its objective to create a policy and regulatory environment that allows tourism operators to grow and prosper, that provides job opportunities for all ages and skills, that generates economic impact in regions throughout British Columbia, and that helps communities develop in manageable and sustainable ways.
Joining as a member enables TIABC to support important advocacy efforts on behalf of the entire visitor economy.
Due to the difficulties the tourism industry has faced since early 2020, TIABC has extended various payment options to members if required.
Destination Canada Attracting U.S. Market by Matching Travel Perks on Air Canada
Destination Canada, has partnered with Air Canada and StatusMatch to launch a new status match program to encourage frequent American travellers to visit Canada. Destination Canada is offering to match the tier of Air Canada's Aeroplan members that are US residents and have a tier with an eligible US airline listed.
Canada is using the lure of travel perks to convince America’s frequent flying elite to fly north on Air Canada as the country steps up efforts to revive crucial traffic from the United States.
Destination Canada, has partnered with Air Canada and StatusMatch to launch a new status match program to encourage frequent American travellers to visit Canada. Destination Canada is offering to match the tier of Air Canada's Aeroplan members that are US residents and have a tier with an eligible US airline listed.
This limited-time offer marks the first time a tourism organization has used status-matching to entice visitors to travel to their destination.
COVID-19 has battered travel from Canada’s largest tourism market. During the first half of 2021, Canada had about 178,000 overnight arrivals from the United States, compared with 6.8 million during the same period in 2019, according to government data.
To help reverse that decline, government tourism body, Destination Canada has rolled out its first campaign targeting U.S. frequent fliers.
It is part of broader $14 million effort by the tourism commission to boost traffic after Canada recently opened its borders to vaccinated travellers. It comes as countries ease restrictions on international travel, with the United States set to reopen in November to vaccinated air travellers from 33 countries.
Thompson Okanagan Wildfire Resilience Roundtable | BC Tourism Resiliency Network
The British Columbia Tourism Resiliency Network is hosting a virtual Wildfire Resilience Roundtable for the Thompson Okanagan region on Tuesday, October 5 from 2 PM to 3 PM. Each Wildfire Resilience Roundtable will begin with a wildfire scenario developed from the guest perspective, tailored to reflect the realistic and relevant needs of the region.
In this roundtable session, learn more about:
Developing a shared understanding of the impacts a wildfire may have on guests
How messaging can influence guest confidence and safety
Generating a repository of solutions or resources that either currently exist or could be developed to support guests and tourism operators
The British Columbia Tourism Resiliency Network is hosting a series of Wildfire Resilience Roundtables throughout October, one for each of the five B.C. regions, led by emergency management experts from Calian Group.
The Thompson Okanagan Wildfire Resilience Roundtable is being held virtually on Tuesday, October 5 from 2 PM to 3 PM.
Each Wildfire Resilience Roundtable will begin with a wildfire scenario developed from the guest perspective, tailored to reflect the realistic and relevant needs of each region.
Breakout groups will then be guided by a facilitator and designed to explore a specific question with real solutions. All discussions will be conducted with a Trauma Informed Approach (TIA) to ensure the cultural and emotional safety of all participants.
In this roundtable session, you will learn more about:
Developing a shared understanding of the impacts a wildfire may have on guests
How messaging can influence guest confidence and safety
Generating a repository of solutions or resources that either currently exist or could be developed to support guests and tourism operators
URGENT Survey: Impact of BC Vaccine Card - Alliance of Beverage Licensees
Industry organizations want to better understand how the Vaccine Card has impacted hospitality businesses. The goal of this survey is to understand if and how the Vaccine Card has impacted revenue, expenses, and interactions with customers in hospitality businesses. The responses will give real-world information needed to advocate for the government support businesses need to succeed.
ABLE BC in partnership with the BCRFA, BC Craft Brewers Guild, Craft Distillers Guild of BC, Wine Growers British Columbia, Restaurants Canada, and New Wave Wine Society want to better understand how the Vaccine Card has impacted hospitality businesses.
British Columbia’s vaccine card program began on September 13. The program requires proof of at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine in order to enter restaurants, movies, ticketed sporting events and many other non-essential venues.
As of October 24, those aged 12 and up will need to be fully vaccinated to access those same services and venues.
The goal of this survey is to understand if and how the Vaccine Card has impacted revenue, expenses, and interactions with customers in hospitality businesses. The responses will give real-world information needed to advocate for the government support businesses need to succeed.
TOTA Complimentary Energy Assessments & FortisBC Equipment Rebate Support
TOTA is offering complimentary virtual energy assessments and free one-on-one equipment rebate consultations to Thompson Okanagan tourism companies that are serviced by FortisBC. The goal is to help the businesses reduce their energy-related operating and capital expenses, energy consumption, and carbon footprint.
TOTA’s Energy Analyst can assist in choosing the right equipment eligible for rebates, submitting a rebate application to FortisBC, and guide you throughout the process till the application gets approved.
To book your complimentary virtual energy assessment or to find out if your business is eligible for rebates, book a free appointment with the TOTA Energy Analyst.
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is offering complimentary virtual energy assessments and free one-on-one equipment rebate consultations to tourism businesses in the region that are serviced by FortisBC. The goal of these free services is to help businesses reduce their energy-related operating and capital expenses, energy consumption, and carbon footprint.
Your company might be eligible for FortisBC rebates if you are a FortisBC electricity or natural gas customer, meet their requirements for energy-efficient equipment, and you:
Are trying to find ways to reduce energy costs or capital expenses for your business
Are planning to purchase or upgrade lighting, HVAC equipment (boilers, furnaces, water heaters, heat pumps, rooftop units, ovens, dishwashers, etc), or other appliances for your business
Have purchased or installed any of these within the last 365 days
Energy Analyst Services
TOTA’s Energy Analyst can assist you in choosing the right equipment eligible for rebates, submitting a rebate application to FortisBC, and guide you throughout the process until the application gets approved.
To book your complimentary virtual energy assessment or to find out if your business is eligible for rebates, book a free appointment with TOTA’s Energy Analyst.
Examples of FortisBC rebates available:
Commercial lighting rebates up to $30 per unit per LED lamp, up to $200 per LED interior luminaire, and up to $220 per LED exterior luminaire (only eligible models of lamps, luminaries, occupancy and photocell sensors)
Natural gas boiler rebates up to $20,000 when installing an eligible mid-efficiency natural gas boiler. For a limited time, until December 31, 2021, FortisBC has even bigger rebates on eligible high-efficiency condensing models, up to $60,000 per boiler.
Heat pump and electric water heater rebates up to $1,000 per water heater for ENERGY STAR certified heat pump water heater and up to $600 per ton for eligible variable refrigerant flow heat pump model
Kitchen and laundry equipment rebates (eligible models of convection ovens, fryers, griddles, hot food holding cabinets, steam cookers, dishwashers, demand controlled ventilation exhaust hoods, clothes washers, etc).
Province Extends Order Capping Fees Charged by Food Delivery Services | BC Gov News
The B.C. food delivery service fee cap is being extended to December 31, 2021, at which point it will be reviewed, taking into account the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The order will continue to cap fees charged to restaurants from food delivery companies to 15%. An additional cap of 5% will also be extended for other related fees associated with use of the service, such as online ordering and processing fees. This will ensure companies cannot shift their delivery costs to other fees.
The Province of B.C. announced that restaurants facing unprecedented challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic will continue to be supported through the extension of the food delivery fee cap, which limits the total fees food delivery companies can charge.
The food delivery service fee cap is being extended under the COVID-19 Related Measures Act and will immediately follow the expiry of the current temporary order put in place on December 22nd last year under the Emergency Program Act. The current order was set to expire at midnight (Pacific time) on Sept. 28, 2021.
The order will continue to cap fees charged to restaurants from food delivery companies to 15%. An additional cap of 5% will also be extended for other related fees associated with use of the service, such as online ordering and processing fees. This will ensure companies cannot shift their delivery costs to other fees.
Small-delivery service businesses that serve less than 500 restaurants will continue to be exempt from the order. The order also prohibits delivery companies from reducing compensation for their drivers allowing employees to continue to be paid their regular wages.
The revised order is set to expire on December 31, 2021, at which point it will be reviewed, taking into account the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Service Feature: Moccasin Trails Consulting
Moccasin Trails Consulting works to support urban and rural economic development - specifically in Indigenous tourism, partnership building between Indigenous and non-Indigenous organizations in B.C. Services include speaking engagements, tourism & economic development, training programs, corporate training, and workshops.
Moccasin Trails Consulting can support your organization towards working with and build positive relationships with Indigenous communities.
Moccasin Trails Consulting supports urban and rural economic development, specifically in Indigenous tourism, partnership building between Indigenous and non-Indigenous organizations, inspiring keynote presentations, skills development, training, and more in B.C.
Services
Public Speaking: Presentations and keynotes can be tailored to small or large groups participating in conferences, lectures or workshops.
Tourism & Economic Development: Strategic planning, community engagement, and cultural programming/
Training Programs & Workshops: Facilitate training programs and workshops to deliver Indigenous specific curriculum developed by your university, school, or organization.
Team Building & Workshops: Youth empowerment, ceremonies and ceremonial education, Indigenous Cultural Awareness training, and other corporate workshops.
Moccasin Trails Consulting can support your organization towards working with and build positive relationships with Indigenous communities. Learn more at MoccasinTrails.com.
About the Founders
Moccasin Trails Consulting is Indigenous-owned and deeply rooted in Indigenous values, cultures, teachings, and beliefs. The founders, Greg Hopf and Frank Antoine, have been immersed in Indigenous cultures and traditional practices and are now looking forward to sharing their traditional knowledge and professional expertise with you and your organization.
Netflix In Your Neighbourhood Features Okanagan Tourism Businesses
Netflix is launching a new website — Netflix in Your Neighbourhood — to make it easier for fans, both local and from around the world, to find and explore amazing Netflix filming locations that all have one thing in common: Canada. Several productions listed were filmed in the Okanagan, benefiting communities by creating jobs and investments in local businesses while also creating a desire among our members to visit the area and learn more.
Frequency Winery was one Okanagan business featured in the Netflix show Restaurants on the Edge.
Netflix is launching a new website — Netflix in Your Neighbourhood — to make it easier for fans, both local and from around the world, to find and explore amazing Netflix filming locations that all have one thing in common: Canada.
Netflix in Your Neighbourhood provides a window into some of the Canadian cities and towns that have enriched films and series, and captivated audiences worldwide. Visitors can search filming locations by a film or series title, or by province. Fans can also access directions to these destinations, and see how they’ve been featured on Netflix.
Netflix has filmed hundreds of productions across Canada and the site will feature some current highlights, as well as select new titles, once they are released.
Several productions were filmed in the Okanagan, benefiting communities by creating jobs and investments in local businesses while also creating a desire among our members to visit the area and learn more about the place, food, wilderness, and culture.
Thompson Okanagan filming locations listed include businesses featured on the show, Restaurants on the Edge, filmed in Vernon and Kelowna:
The Outboard Waterfront Pub
Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery
Okanagan Lake
Frequency Winery
A recent study shows that Netflix audiences are 1.8x more likely to have seen Canadian content than those who don’t watch Netflix. And people who have watched Canadian content are 2.1x more likely to say Canada is their #1 travel destination.
Canadian Content on Netflix has helped contribute to my appreciation of Canada’s history and culture
-Male, 74, US
Through Netflix, members can discover many different parts of Canada, encouraging them to look at these Canadian destinations through a new lens.
Applications Open for Decade of Action Program: Building a Sustainable Future for BC Tourism | Apply by 12:00 October 13, 2021
The Decade of Action Program: Building a Sustainable Future for BC Tourism through the UN Sustainable Development Goals is a virtual capacity-building program to support businesses across B.C. to create a Sustainable Development Goal Strategy and Decade of Action Plan. Learn how to align the SDGs with your existing sustainability efforts, set targets for the future, and drive meaningful results for your guests, company, and community.
The Decade of Action Program: Building a Sustainable Future for BC Tourism through the UN Sustainable Development Goals is a capacity-building program to support businesses across B.C. to create a Sustainable Development Goal Strategy and Decade of Action Plan. Learn how to align the SDGs with your existing sustainability efforts, set targets for the future, and drive meaningful results for your guests, company, and community.
Facilitated by the BC Tourism Resiliency Network, in partnership with Synergy Enterprises, this pilot program will support up to 40 tourism businesses across B.C. through two workshops and one-on-one coaching for each participating business.
In the program, participants will:
Connect with passionate business leaders and discover how tourism can create a better world
Receive coaching to identify the SDGs that most align with your organization, and actions that promote resiliency, cost reduction, and access to talent
Identify key metrics to track your progress towards the SDGs
Integrate the SDGs into your messaging and communications
Develop an SDG Strategy and 10-year Action Plan for your organization
Help position BC’s tourism industry as a leader in sustainability
This Program consists of three parts:
Decade of Action Seminar (Tuesday, October 19, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM PST)
Business Action Planning and One-on-One Coaching Calls (October - December)
Decade of Action Showcase (Thursday, November 18, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM PST)
Spaces are limited. Apply by October 13, at 12:00pm