News & Resources
The latest Thompson Okanagan tourism industry news from TOTA, tourism businesses, and communities.
New B.C. Ministers Appointed for Land Stewardship, Municipal Affairs
Premier John Horgan appointed Josie Osborne as Minister of Land, Water, and Resource Stewardship and Minister Responsible for Fisheries, and Nathan Cullen as Minister of Municipal Affairs. Premier Horgan has also named MLA Doug Routley as Parliamentary Secretary for Forests to support the work of Minister Katrine Conroy to modernize forestry in British Columbia.
The establishment of the Ministry of Land, Water and Resource Stewardship follows government’s commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples, protecting BC's environment and building a strong economic recovery. Minister Osborne will work with First Nations, local communities and industry to build a vision for land and resource management that will embrace shared decision making on the land base and to build certainty and create further opportunity.
As Minister of Municipal Affairs, Cullen will work with local governments to support their communities as they recover and rebuild after COVID-19 and extreme weather. Cullen will support municipalities to address their priorities, from building infrastructure to responding to challenges posed to businesses and neighbourhoods by homelessness.
Premier John Horgan appointed Josie Osborne as Minister of Land, Water, and Resource Stewardship and Minister Responsible for Fisheries, and Nathan Cullen as Minister of Municipal Affairs. Premier Horgan has also named MLA Doug Routley as Parliamentary Secretary for Forests to support the work of Minister Katrine Conroy to modernize forestry in British Columbia.
The establishment of the Ministry of Land, Water and Resource Stewardship follows government’s commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples, protecting BC's environment and building a strong economic recovery. Minister Osborne will work with First Nations, local communities and industry to build a vision for land and resource management that will embrace shared decision making on the land base and to build certainty and create further opportunity.
As Minister of Municipal Affairs, Cullen will work with local governments to support their communities as they recover and rebuild after COVID-19 and extreme weather. Cullen will support municipalities to address their priorities, from building infrastructure to responding to challenges posed to businesses and neighbourhoods by homelessness.
Government of Canada Support for the Air Transportation Ecosystem in B.C.
On February 22nd, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada, announced Regional Air Transportation Initiative (RATI) funding of over $18.8 million in federal support for 11 airports and two air carriers in B.C. In the Thompson Okanagan, Kelowna International Airport received $3,261,330 of RATI funds.
The funding will ensure these airports and carriers can continue essential route maintenance and facility operations, as well as maintain employment and restore growth in the region.
On February 22nd, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada, announced Regional Air Transportation Initiative (RATI) funding of over $18.8 million in federal support for 11 airports and two air carriers in B.C. In the Thompson Okanagan, Kelowna International Airport received $3,261,330 of RATI funds.
The funding will ensure these airports and carriers can continue essential route maintenance and facility operations, as well as maintain employment and restore growth in the region.
REMINDER | Lightened Border Measures Now in Effect
A reminder that effective Monday, February 28, Canada will be transitioning to a new phase at the border.
All fully vaccinated travellers arriving in Canada may be randomly selected for testing. However, they will no longer be required to quarantine while awaiting their test result.
Children under 12 years old, travelling with fully vaccinated adults, will be exempt from quarantine without any prescribed conditions limiting their activities.
Travellers will now have the option to use a COVID-19 rapid antigen test result or a molecular test result to satisfy pre-entry requirements.
The Government of Canada will adjust its Travel Health Notice from Level 3 to Level 2. This means that government will no longer recommend Canadians avoid travel for non-essential purposes.
International flights carrying passengers will be permitted to land at all Canadian airports that are designated by the Canada Border Services Agency to receive international passenger flights.
Travellers should understand the risks that are still associated with international travel given the high incidence of Omicron, and take necessary precautions.
A reminder that effective Monday, February 28, Canada will be transitioning to a new phase at the border.
All fully vaccinated travellers arriving in Canada may be randomly selected for testing. However, they will no longer be required to quarantine while awaiting their test result.
Children under 12 years old, travelling with fully vaccinated adults, will be exempt from quarantine without any prescribed conditions limiting their activities.
Travellers will now have the option to use a COVID-19 rapid antigen test result or a molecular test result to satisfy pre-entry requirements.
The Government of Canada will adjust its Travel Health Notice from Level 3 to Level 2. This means that government will no longer recommend Canadians avoid travel for non-essential purposes.
International flights carrying passengers will be permitted to land at all Canadian airports that are designated by the Canada Border Services Agency to receive international passenger flights.
Travellers should understand the risks that are still associated with international travel given the high incidence of Omicron, and take necessary precautions.
Funding for Intern Programs | Mitacs
Mitacs designs and delivers research and training programs in Canada, including the Business Strategy Internship and Accelerate Program, which match an organization’s funding towards the project, up to $7,500, which covers a student’s stipend. BSIs are focused on designing and implementing an innovation strategy to tackle a business problem. Accelerate supports research projects that are eligible for peer-review.
Mitacs designs and delivers research and training programs in Canada, including the Business Strategy Internship and Accelerate Program, which match an organization’s funding towards the project, up to $7,500, which covers a student’s stipend. BSIs are focused on designing and implementing an innovation strategy to tackle a business problem. Accelerate supports research projects that are eligible for peer-review.
Business Strategy Internship
Mitacs is bringing their Business Strategy Internship (BSI) program back for a second year. The BSI connects students from academic institutions with businesses and nonprofits to support innovation. With the guidance of an academic supervisor, these interns provide technical expertise on everything from operations to finance, to marketing, to intellectual property, and beyond to help businesses develop and implement their innovation roadmap—and Mitacs funding will support you to bring these students onboard!
Accelerate Program
The Accelerate Program supports organizations to enlist students to work on research projects. Solve your research challenges with academic expertise, leveraged funding, and one-to-one support from Mitacs. Internships start at four months and can scale up as much as you need — your financial contribution starts at $7,500.
Okanagan Rail Trail to Be Completed by Okanagan Indian Band, District of Lake Country, and City of Kelowna
The Okanagan Indian Band, District of Lake Country and City of Kelowna announced agreement on a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will pave the way toward building important health, safety, and infrastructure improvements, including completion of the Okanagan Rail Trail.
On February 8, 2022, the Okanagan Indian Band, District of Lake Country and City of Kelowna announced agreement on a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will pave the way toward building important health, safety, and infrastructure improvements, including completion of the Okanagan Rail Trail.
Staff discussions among the three neighbours over many months have resulted in an agreement to move toward resolving infrastructure needs. Some preliminary work is already underway on agreements to overcome historical jurisdictional challenges.
Working within the spirit of the agreement, all parties are committed to meeting the following goals:
OKIB Objectives
the opportunity for water and sewer services to existing properties and availability of servicing for future developments,
a road access to a parcel of land on the east side of Duck Lake, and
an Addition to Reserve for the Okanagan Rail Trail corridor.
Lake Country Objectives:
to have Commonwealth Road opened as an arterial access to Jim Bailey Road from Highway 97 to address capacity issues on Beaver Lake Road,
to complete the Okanagan Rail Trail,
to secure interim sewer servicing from the City of Kelowna,
dedication of a road right-of-way north from Beaver Lake Road to the Clearwater/Copperhill subdivision, and
a minor boundary adjustment.
City of Kelowna Objectives:
to complete the development of the Okanagan Rail Trail,
to protect the City’s main sewer line within the rail trail right-of-way through the IR#7,
to obtain full access for the industrial lands via Commonwealth Road, and
later supply from Lake Country for the entire neighbourhood.
The three jurisdictions agree to work together to upgrade Beaver Lake Road to an arterial standard from Highway 97 to Jim Bailey Road.
OKIB has agreed to provide access to the Okanagan Rail Trail once the Government of Canada adds the lands to Reserve. This connection will provide the final link to this important recreational corridor.
Over the coming months, the parties will formalize legal agreements to address responsibilities and funding for the various works.
OKIB Chief Byron Louis, Kelowna Mayor Colin Basran, and Lake Country Mayor James Baker will take part in a ceremonial signing event in the near future.
Small Business BC Awards - Vote for Thompson Okanagan Nominees
The Small Business BC Awards are open for nominations and voting until February 28, 2022. This year’s competition consists of two categories, the Business Impact Award and the returning Premier’s People’s Choice Award.
The Thompson Okanagan small business nominees are:
Click the profile links to cast your vote and support these outstanding small businesses!
The Small Business BC Awards are open for nominations and voting until February 28, 2022. This year’s competition consists of two categories, the Business Impact Award and the returning Premier’s People’s Choice Award.
The Thompson Okanagan small business finalists are:
Click the profile links to cast your vote and support these outstanding small businesses!
Once a small business is nominated, they must gain as many public votes as possible. The businesses with the most votes in the SBBC Business Impact Award category will be narrowed down to the top twenty, then judged by an internal panel of business experts to select the Top Five finalists. The Top 5 Finalists will be invited to present to a panel of judges.
The winner of the Premier’s People’s Choice award will be selected based on the most votes, after a normalization process to allow for regional populations.
On April 28, 2022, a virtual gala will be hosted by Small Business BC to announce and honour the winners.
CleanBC Communities Fund Intake 3 Now Open | Apply by May 25, 2022
The CleanBC Communities Fund (CCF) intake 3 is now accepting applications to fund projects that support the management of renewable energy, access to clean energy transportation, improved energy efficiency of buildings, and generation of clean energy. The fund invests in public infrastructure owned by local governments, Indigenous communities, not-for-profits and projects in partnership with for-profit entities.
The CleanBC Communities Fund (CCF) intake 3 is now accepting applications to fund projects that support the management of renewable energy, access to clean energy transportation, improved energy efficiency of buildings, and generation of clean energy. The fund invests in public infrastructure owned by local governments, Indigenous communities, not-for-profits and projects in partnership with for-profit entities.
Integrating People with Disabilities into the Workplace
There are several B.C. employment agencies that help to successfully match tourism employers with non-traditional labour pools, including people with disabilities.
Once the recruitment process is done, how can employers look beyond obligatory compliance to accommodate people with disabilities so they can do their jobs as effectively as possible?
Learn more in go2HR’s guide to Integrating People with Disabilities into the Workplace →
There are several B.C. employment agencies that help to successfully match tourism employers with non-traditional labour pools, including people with disabilities.
Once the recruitment process is done, how can employers look beyond obligatory compliance to accommodate people with disabilities so they can do their jobs as effectively as possible?
Learn more in go2HR’s guide to Integrating People with Disabilities into the Workplace →
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association Collaborates with Green Wine Future 2022
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has joined with Green Wine Future (GWF) as one of its corporate sponsors and strategic partners. The event is the most ambitious environmental conference ever organized for the wine community and will launch as a fully online gathering May 23-26, 2022.
Miami, Florida, USA - The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), to show its commitment to protecting the environment and sustainability, has joined with Green Wine Future (GWF) as one of its corporate sponsors and strategic partners. The event is the most ambitious environmental conference ever organized for the wine community and will launch as a fully online gathering May 23-26, 2022.
“Because Green Wine Future is an international summit which will be broadcast around the globe and from eight different time zones, we will be able to show the entire planet, why and how the Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia, Canada became the first destination in the Americas to successfully achieve the Biosphere Certified designation distinction from the Responsible Tourism Institute,” said Ellen Walker-Matthews, CEO for TOTA.
As part of TOTA’s participation in the conference, TOTA is supported by several provincial and regional funding partners: Destination British Columbia, Wine Growers British Columbia, Sustainable Winegrowing British Columbia; and host wineries who will showcase the Thompson Okanagan wine region: Mission Hill Family Estate Winery, CedarCreek Estate Winery, and Monte Creek Winery.
To address critical topics of sustainability, wine, and matters related to the climate crisis and the environment, Chrand Events has created Green Wine Future as the culmination of its Climate Change & Wine and Wine Future conferences. The conference will be broadcast in four languages simultaneously (English, Spanish, French, Italian) from 8 different parts of the planet in their respective time zones: USA, Chile, Portugal, Spain, France, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand.
In 2006, Chrand Events pioneered the world’s first international conference on Climate Change and Wine, and the first event examining the impacts of the climate crisis upon any one industry. Since that edition in Spain, Chrand Events has organized numerous other international conferences in Hong Kong, Portugal, and other parts of the world featuring the most influential names of the wine industry and such visionary global leaders as US President Barack Obama, Nobel Laureate Al Gore, and UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan amongst many others.
“Green Wine Future will share with wine professionals innumerable, valuable aspects of how their peers are addressing sustainability issues in creating solutions to problems in the vineyard, winery, supply, and sales streams,” said David Furer, host and co-organizer of this unique international event.
In response to current world conditions, the premiere edition of Green Wine Future will offer a totally new way to attend a conference and for speakers to present their information: a hands-on and practical approach through video footage, and documentaries. Live broadcast from vineyards, footage from innovative solutions to the climate crisis, interactive documentaries specially recorded for the event are just a few highlights of GWF.
This virtual technology will allow wineries and wine companies to be present at the GWF Virtual Expo, showcasing their wines, products, and services. The innovative technology will also allow delegates, speakers, and exhibitors to network virtually for a period of 2 weeks prior to the conference.
GWF also announces the addition of “Wine for the Planet” (W4P) docuseries which will showcase the wine industry’s work in protecting areas of the Earth most sensitive to the climate crisis, including:
Antarctica, Iceland, Greenland, the Arctic;
Coral reefs in different parts of our planet;
The Amazon and other rainforests;
Regions already suffering from water shortages and floods;
Areas implementing sustainable initiatives, such as the Thompson Okanagan region in British Columbia, Canada.
Recorded and presented by GWF and W4P founder Pancho Campo and his team from the above listed regions, W4P will stream free globally during regular breaks of GWF. Documentaries will be available through Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram, where the team will highlight wine tastings in Greenland, Iceland, Antarctica, the Amazon, and the Great Coral Reef.
As part of these documentaries, Pancho will travel to the Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia at the beginning of April to record a documentary that will showcase the region’s wine industry, sustainable tourism commitments, and environmentally friendly strategies and initiatives that are being undertaken as part of the provincial focus to address the global climate crisis.
The event has obtained the support of many key wine organizations and allies including the International Institute of Vine and Wine, Wine Institute of California, Napa Valley Vintners, Interprofesional del Vino de España, Barossa Australia, Wines of Chile, Wines of Portugal, and the Porto Protocol.
Registrations and all information regarding GWF’s speakers and program, as well as the program for W4P, are available at GreenWineFuture.com.
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, & Sport. 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.
About Chrand Events
Chrand Events, founder of Green Wine Future, is an agency founded by former tennis professional and Olympic captain Pancho Campo. Chrand has organized world-class events for over 30 years in more than 20 countries. Chrand has managed and produced concerts, sporting events, summits, and conferences with some of the most important world leaders, celebrities, and Nobel Prize winners including: US President Barack Obama, US Vice-President Al Gore, UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, film director Francis Ford Coppola, Sting, Pink Floyd, Andre Agassi and Enrique Iglesias amongst other notables.
For more information, contact:
Pancho Campo
Founder / Conference Director
Sponsorships
Michael Wangbickler
Publicity & Communications Director
Balzac Communications & Marketing
David Furer
Host / Program Director
DF Consults
Ellen Walker-Matthews
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)
Kavan Vijayakumar
Industry Relations & Stewardship Specialist
Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program Winery Virtual Trade Booths
Wendy Vallaster
Certified ISG Sommelier & Professional Wine Consultant
Green Wine Future Virtual Trade Booths
New BC Tourism Learning Portal from the BC Tourism Resiliency Network
The British Columbia Tourism Resiliency Network (BCTRN) launched the BC Tourism Learning Portal, a free resource designed to support all B.C. tourism businesses through long-term access to resources.
The portal includes a high-functioning search tool so tourism businesses can ask a question and be provided with helpful information, including: articles, webinar recordings, case studies, links to resources on other sites, and experts offered by the Tourism Resiliency Program.
Thompson Okanagan companies can combine the learning portal with free 1-1 support from a TOTA Advisor through the Tourism Resiliency Program.
The recordings from the British Columbia Tourism Resiliency Network Online Learning Day held September 28, 2021 are now available on the Learning Portal, and new content will be added on an ongoing basis.
Access Resources at Learn.TourismResiliency.ca
The British Columbia Tourism Resiliency Network (BCTRN) launched the BC Tourism Learning Portal, a free resource designed to support all B.C. tourism businesses through long-term access to resources.
The portal includes a high-functioning search tool so tourism businesses can ask a question and be provided with helpful information, including: articles, webinar recordings, case studies, links to resources on other sites, and experts offered by the Tourism Resiliency Program.
Thompson Okanagan companies can combine the learning portal with free 1-1 support from a TOTA Advisor through the Tourism Resiliency Program.
The recordings from the British Columbia Tourism Resiliency Network Online Learning Day held September 28, 2021 are now available on the Learning Portal, and new content will be added on an ongoing basis.
Access Resources at Learn.TourismResiliency.ca
BSAFE™️ Program Updated with Proof of Vaccination Information
go2HR's free online health and safety program for employees, BSAFE, has been updated to reflect Provincial Health Orders. BSAFE now includes BC Proof of Vaccination protocols as well as Step 3 of BC’s Restart Plan.
go2HR's free online health and safety program for employees, BSAFE, has been updated to reflect Provincial Health Orders. BSAFE now includes BC Proof of Vaccination protocols as well as Step 3 of BC’s Restart Plan.
This program is designed to ensure foundational health and safety knowledge for BC’s tourism and hospitality businesses to keep everyone — workers, guests and communities — safe as we continue to move through the COVID-19 pandemic.
Course details:
Free for BC tourism and hospitality employers and employees
Created by go2HR in partnership with tourism and hospitality stakeholders and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sports
Asynchronous, online training course, 90-minutes in length
Organizations and individuals are able to sign up to take part in the BSAFE training. You can join the over 400 organizations who are already registered and working on becoming BSAFE Trained businesses. Upon full completion of the course, participants will receive a certificate of achievement.
Employers who have 75% of their workforce successfully complete the training course, will be recognized with a “BSAFE Trained” certificate. They can use this certificate in different ways to demonstrate their commitment to providing a safe environment for guests and workers, thereby increasing consumer confidence. go2HR will provide a communications toolkit for BSAFE Trained business to easily assist them in promoting this new designation.
PHO Order on Workplace Safety Updated
The provincial health officer (PHO) has updated the Provincial Health Officer Order on Workplace Safety, to support the transition of employees back into the workplace.
The requirement for employers to allow workers to work from their private residence, if possible, has been lifted.
All workplaces must continue to have COVID-19 safety plans in place, and the PHO’s Face Coverings Order continues to apply to some workplaces.
The Province and the PHO recognize that every workplace is different. Many workplaces will be able to transition to in-person work again quickly. Others may wish to continue with remote or hybrid models. Workplaces and businesses are encouraged to choose the option that works best for them.
The provincial health officer (PHO) has updated the Provincial Health Officer Order on Workplace Safety, to support the transition of employees back into the workplace.
The requirement for employers to allow workers to work from their private residence, if possible, has been lifted.
All workplaces must continue to have COVID-19 safety plans in place, and the PHO’s Face Coverings Order continues to apply to some workplaces.
The Province and the PHO recognize that every workplace is different. Many workplaces will be able to transition to in-person work again quickly. Others may wish to continue with remote or hybrid models. Workplaces and businesses are encouraged to choose the option that works best for them.
Student Hiring Resources from ACE-WIL - Association for Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning BC/Yukon
ACE-WIL BC/Yukon, the Association of Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning, connects post-secondary students and employers for co-operative education and work-integrated learning experiences. Work-integrated learning (WIL) is a model and process of curricular experiential education which formally and intentionally integrates a student’s academic studies within a workplace or practice setting.
ACE-WIL offers several resources for hospitality and tourism employers, including:
Talent MATCH: Talk to an advisor to learn which student talent programs best fits your organizational needs. Talent MATCH will connect you to the appropriate post-secondary school(s) and help you identify funding sources and wage subsidies. Organizations of all sizes are eligible through go2HR.
Resource Hub: The ACE-WIL Resource Hub offers tips for recruiting, accessing funding, and managing students remotely. You’ll find webinars, events, and funding opportunities.
Student Recruitment Guide: Talent MATCH created a student recruitment guide with lists of post-secondary institutions with hospitality, tourism, and culinary related programs and student hiring timelines.
ACE-WIL BC/Yukon, the Association of Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning, connects post-secondary students and employers for co-operative education and work-integrated learning experiences. ACE-WIL is a provincial not-for-profit that works with 25 accredited, publicly funded, post-secondary institutions in the BC/Yukon region that offer co-op and work-integrated learning programs.
Work-integrated learning (WIL) is a model and process of curricular experiential education which formally and intentionally integrates a student’s academic studies within a workplace or practice setting. WIL experiences include an engaged partnership between an academic institution, a host organization, and a student.
Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) students can offer so much to your organization, whether it’s taking on a one-off research project, developing a safety plan or user manual, managing your social media channels, handling accounting duties, plus so much more.
Talent MATCH
Talk to an advisor to learn which student talent programs best fits your organizational needs. Talent MATCH will connect you to the appropriate post-secondary school(s) and help you identify funding sources and wage subsidies. Organizations of all sizes are eligible through go2HR.
Resource Hub
The ACE-WIL Resource Hub offers tips for recruiting, accessing funding, and managing students remotely. You’ll find webinars, events, and funding opportunities.
Student Recruitment Guide
Talent MATCH created a student recruitment guide with lists of post-secondary institutions with hospitality, tourism, and culinary related programs and student hiring timelines.
BC Tourism & Hospitality Award Finalists Announced
The BC Hotel Association (BCHA) and the Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) announced the finalists of the 2022 BC Tourism and Hospitality Awards! The awards recognize and celebrate excellence, leadership, and innovation within British Columbia’s tourism & hospitality industry, showcasing the province’s most exceptional leaders and positive change-makers.
The BC Hotel Association (BCHA) and the Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) announced the finalists of the 2022 BC Tourism and Hospitality Awards!
The awards recognize and celebrate excellence, leadership, and innovation within British Columbia’s tourism & hospitality industry, showcasing the province’s most exceptional leaders and positive change-makers.
Following the call for submissions, the organizing committee received hundreds of nominations, highlighting the wealth of exceptional talent within our industry.
Congratulations to all the finalists! The Thompson Okanagan individuals recognized for their outstanding contribution to British Columbia's tourism and hospitality community are:
Accessibility Award | Sponsored by Destination British Columbia
Mike Riediger | CEO, Kootenay Adaptive Sport Association
Julie Ratcliffe | Marketing & Events Manager, BC Wildlife Park Kamloops
Employees First Award | Sponsored by go2HR
Accent Inns & Hotel Zed | Employer
Indigenous Operator of the Year Award | Sponsored by Indigenous Tourism Canada
Adam Blair | General Manager, Quaaout Lodge & Talking Rock Resort
Innovation Award | Sponsored by City of Richmond
Kimberley Barnes | Marketing Director, Wine Growers British Columbia
Professional Excellence (DMO) Award | Sponsored by Destination Think!
Thom Tischik | Executive Director, Travel Penticton
Community Contribution & Impact Award
British Columbia Tourism Resiliency Network
The winners will be awarded at the Awards Gala evening on Thursday, March 10, 2022, at the Richmond Conference Centre, as part of the 2022 BC Tourism & Hospitality Conference. There’s still time to purchase a ticket to the celebratory evening!
Updated Destination BC Messaging Guidance on How to Travel in BC This Winter
Both federal and provincial updates to current COVID-19 restrictions and border measures are now reflected in Destination BC’s Winter Travel Guide, which provides key messaging, information and infographics, and resources for BC’s tourism industry as it relates to travel to and within BC.
Visitors will need to know what rules, recommendations and expectations are in place in BC to keep them, our residents, and our businesses safe, as they travel BC this winter. Refer people to Destination BC’s Know Before You Go page for the latest information; update any info on your site to reflect the latest recommendations.
Both federal and provincial updates to current COVID-19 restrictions and border measures are now reflected in Destination BC’s Winter Travel Guide, which provides key messaging, information and infographics, and resources for BC’s tourism industry as it relates to travel to and within BC.
Visitors will need to know what rules, recommendations and expectations are in place in BC to keep them, our residents, and our businesses safe, as they travel BC this winter. Refer people to Destination BC’s Know Before You Go page for the latest information; update any info on your site to reflect the latest recommendations.
Budget 2022 Moves Stronger BC Plan Forward
On February 22, Premier John Horgan and Minister of Finance Selina Robinson delivered Budget 2022. The economic picture is expected to be short-lived due to an influx in pandemic-specific cash in the last year. The forecast deficit for 2021/22 is now $483 million, a dramatic decrease from the $9.7 billion-projected deficit in last year’s budget. The one-year rebound is short-lived, with the province forecasting a deficit of $5.46 billion in 2022/23 and $4.18 billion in 2023/24.
Originally published by TIABC
On February 22, Premier John Horgan and Minister of Finance Selina Robinson delivered Budget 2022. The economic picture is expected to be short-lived due to an influx in pandemic-specific cash in the last year.
The forecast deficit for 2021/22 is now $483 million, a dramatic decrease from the $9.7 billion-projected deficit in last year’s budget. The one-year rebound is short-lived, with the province forecasting a deficit of $5.46 billion in 2022/23 and $4.18 billion in 2023/24. Budget 2022 has been build up the following three themes:
Building a stronger society by putting people first
The investments made to date in services like health care, child care and housing have supported people through the pandemic and recent climate-related disasters. Budget 2022 builds on this strength by continuing to invest in the quality, accessibility and responsiveness of the services people rely on.
Building a stronger environment for our future
Recent climate-related disasters have challenged British Columbians and reinforced the need to secure a low-carbon future for BC. Budget 2022 helps fight climate change, build back better from recent disasters, and makes sure people and communities throughout BC are protected from future disasters.
With significant new funding for Emergency Management BC and the BC Wildfire Service, Budget 2022 funds new facilities and equipment to respond to disasters and supports a proactive, year-round service model for the BC Wildlife Service. The BC Wildfire Service will be turned into a year-round service at a cost of $243 million.
Building a stronger economy for everyone
Budget 2022 helps make sure people throughout BC are poised to benefit from a growing economy, today and into the future by investing in an inclusive, sustainable and innovative economy that works for everyone.
Budget 2022 invests to connect another 280 First Nations, rural and remote communities to high-speed internet. With this investment, 82% of rural and remote communities and 92% of First Nations communities in BC will be connected to high-speed internet.
A New Ministry of Land, Water and Resource Stewardship will support economic activity, environmental sustainability and reconciliation with indigenous peoples.
How Budget 2022 is Supporting the Tourism Sector Through Pandemic Recovery
Budget 2022 earmarks $25 million in funding to support the tourism sector’s continuing recovery from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Additional funding is also being provided this year to support non-profit organizations affected by the pandemic; the recovery of the arts, culture and music sectors through the Arts Impacts and Amplify BC programs; and additional tourism supports, including funding to support the safe restart of fairs, festivals and events.
Destination BC Spring Marketing Campaign Seeking Your Travel Offers by March 8
Destination BC’s spring and summer campaigns will encourage people from within the province, Alberta, Ontario, California, and Washington to explore B.C. As part of these campaigns, they are promoting various travel offers through the Travel Deals page that encourages potential travellers to explore a variety of BC experiences, attractions, and accommodations.
To take advantage of the interest generated from these campaigns and motivate travellers to book with your tourism business, DBC encourages tourism businesses to post up to three offers on HelloBC before the first campaign launches on March 8.
Travel offers represent a key opportunity to generate referrals to your business from HelloBC and through Destination BC’s marketing activities and do not require you to discount your experiences or products. Offers can be an enticing package, an experience unique to the province, or a savings of some sort.
Destination BC’s spring and summer campaigns will encourage people from within the province, Alberta, Ontario, California, and Washington to explore B.C. As part of these campaigns, they are promoting various travel offers through the Travel Deals page that encourages potential travellers to explore a variety of BC experiences, attractions, and accommodations.
To take advantage of the interest generated from these campaigns and motivate travellers to book with your tourism business, DBC encourages tourism businesses to post up to three offers on HelloBC before the first campaign launches on March 8.
Travel offers represent a key opportunity to generate referrals to your business from HelloBC and through Destination BC’s marketing activities and do not require you to discount your experiences or products. Offers can be an enticing package, an experience unique to the province, or a savings of some sort.
BC Hospitality Foundation Scholarships Now Accepting Applications | Apply by March 31, 2022
The BC Hospitality Foundation (BCHF) is now accepting applications for several scholarship programs which foster the development of the next generation of hospitality industry workers and leaders.
In 2022, the BCHF scholarship program will be the largest ever, at over $65,000, and there are new scholarships dedicated exclusively to supporting members of underrepresented groups such as First Nations and members of the LGBT2Q+ community.
The deadline for most scholarship submissions is March 31, 2022.
The BC Hospitality Foundation (BCHF) is now accepting applications for several scholarship programs which foster the development of the next generation of hospitality industry workers and leaders.
In 2022, the BCHF scholarship program will be the largest ever, at over $65,000, and there are new scholarships dedicated exclusively to supporting members of underrepresented groups such as First Nations and members of the LGBT2Q+ community.
All applicants must be committed to working in British Columbia for at least the next two years.
The deadline for most scholarship submissions is March 31, 2022.
Leading Places: The 50 Most Loved Travel Destinations for Canada
Tourism Sentiment Index has released a report, Leading Places: The 50 Most Loved Travel Destinations for Canada in 2021. For the first time ever, destinations in Canada have been ranked to uncover those that are truly most loved, according to the Tourism Sentiment Score.
Congratulations to the destinations for earning the country’s most positive feedback and content in 2021!
From the Thompson Okanagan, the following destinations in were in the Top 50 2021 Canada Tourism Sentiment Index Rankings:
4. Kelowna
6. Shuswap
11. Okanagan Valley
13. Similkameen
36. Vernon
40. Thompson Valley
48. Kamloops
Tourism Sentiment Index has released a report, Leading Places: The 50 Most Loved Travel Destinations for Canada in 2021. For the first time ever, destinations in Canada have been ranked to uncover those that are truly most loved, according to the Tourism Sentiment Score.
To produce the rankings, Tourism Sentiment Index conducted a study of a massive volume of online data – more than 1.6 billion online conversations and content pieces publicly available about 21,330 global destinations.
That study first produced the 100 most loved destinations around the world, including Kelowna and the Shuswap in the Thompson Okanagan. Now, rankings are available for Canada.
Congratulations to the destinations for earning the country’s most positive feedback and content in 2021!
From the Thompson Okanagan, the following destinations in were in the Top 50 2021 Canada Tourism Sentiment Index Rankings:
4. Kelowna
6. Shuswap
11. Okanagan Valley
13. Similkameen
36. Vernon
40. Thompson Valley
48. Kamloops
Watch TIAC Release of Canada’s Top 50 Destinations:
New Biosphere Committed Company, Naramata Inn
Naramata Inn has the joined the Biosphere Commitment Program as we are so excited! Naramata Inn has a hyper-local focus in their business operations and keep sustainability at the front of decision making. They are looking forward to have Sustainable Development Goals to quantify their efforts in areas that ensure they continue to grow and better themselves and their destination.
Naramata Inn
Naramata Inn
At Naramata Inn, they know they live in a special place. The history, the vineyards, the beaches, the fruit - Naramata Inn is a treasure worth caring for. Naramata Inn has a rich history deeply rooted in their location, and they feel compelled to care for the land, the people, and the community. Naramata provides so much, and they want to be stewards for their destination, for years to come. The Biosphere Commitment Program is a great way for the Naramata Inn to take thoughtful, practical steps to increase their sustainability efforts. Being able to choose Sustainable Development Goals that resonate with their team means getting buy-in from staff at all levels, and that is really exciting.
Sustainability to Naramata Inn means creating positive impact, both locally and further afield. While Naramata may be a small village, visitors come from around the world. Their reach extends far, and their sustainability goals will help to ensure that they not only lessen any impact, but rather, create a positive impact. They continue to seek out a lot of different ways that they can incorporate local businesses and local products to ensure that, over time, the property is representative of the Village, Naramata Bench, and region. That is a way to make the businesses more sustainable, make the village more sustainable, and showcase the very best that Naramata offers the world in all areas.
With sustainable seafood and hyper-local produce at the forefront of our restaurant mandate, we have always approached business - and life - with an eye towards sustainable living. Healthy oceans, local produce, and a productive and happy team are at the centre of everything we do. Having Sustainable Development Goals to quantify our efforts in these areas ensure that we continue to grow and better ourselves and this place.
- Kate Colley, Owner, Naramata Inn
Naramata Inn’s commitment to supporting local is reflective not only on the inn itself, but also of the Village, the Naramata Bench, and the Okanagan as a whole. Part of being a steward of sustainability for Naramata extends to other areas of the inn itself, which the visitors see and appreciate. The small touches like linen napkins and staff uniforms from the local handmade linen store, to local soap in the rooms, to local lavender products and honey in the rooms, are all small touches that speak to the importance of supporting local. Their guests see these special local touches and understand that their choices of where to spend vacation dollars reverberate for and wide. It’s an important part of who they are, and they are excited to push themselves even further for the benefit of their community.
As a “great restaurant with rooms”, the Naramata Inn has an opportunity to grow in sustainability efforts as both a Restaurant and as an Inn. Chef Ned Bell has made his life’s work around supporting healthy oceans through Oceanwise. With an eye towards supporting local, they forge relationships with the best local orchardists, farmers, growers, and foragers. This allows their menu to change with the seasons, and to explore the bounty of the Okanagan. They truly have everything they need to create memorable dishes using hyper-local products. While some of these sustainability efforts have come naturally, they are thankful to the Biosphere Commitment Program for the encouragement to explore additional avenues for improvement.
In an often male-dominated industry, the Restaurant at Naramata Inn has been given the unique opportunity to showcase the talents of a number of successful, female culinary staff. Their leadership team in the kitchen is actually female-dominated, which is a rarity in the industry! By recognizing this somewhat unusual status, they are excited to explore the Sustainable Development Goals relating to Gender Equality. Not only does this help to make the kitchen a more positive workplace for all, but if it helps to attract talented staff (regardless of gender) and put an end to the outdated gender stereotypes that restaurant kitchens are known for - that is something that they are happy to stand behind.
