News & Resources

The latest Thompson Okanagan tourism industry news from TOTA, tourism businesses, and communities.

 
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Government of Canada announces Workforce Solutions Road Map – further changes to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program to address labour shortages across Canada

The Minister of Employment, Workforce Development & Disability Inclusion, Carla Qualtrough, announced changes to the Temporary Foreign Worker program under the Workforce Solutions Road Map, providing businesses with better access to the program.

View Announcement →

 

The Minister of Employment, Workforce Development & Disability Inclusion, Carla Qualtrough, announced changes to the Temporary Foreign Worker program under the Workforce Solutions Road Map, providing businesses with better access to the program.

Changes include:

Accommodation and Food Services will be among seven sectors in which employers will be allowed to hire up to 30% of their workforce through the TFW Program for low-wage positions for one year.

The policy that automatically refuses LMIA applications in regions with unemployment rate of 6% or higher will end.

Addressing seasonal peaks, there will no longer be a limit to the number of low-wage positions that employers in seasonal industries. In addition, the maximum duration of these positions will be increased from 180 days to 270 days per year.

Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIA’s) will be valid for 18 months, an increase from 9 months. (Prior to COVID-19, LMIA’s were valid for 6 months).

The maximum duration of employment for High-Wage and Global Talent Streams workers will be extended to three years. This will help workers qualify for permanent residency, contributing to our long-term workforce.

View Announcement →

 
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Destination Canada Launches Spring Summer Domestic Campaign

Destination Canada's domestic spring and summer campaign is designed to reframe what Canadians think they know about Canada by showing a different perspective on travel icons found across the country. The target audience is encouraged to look at long-haul domestic regions the same way they consider travelling abroad.

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Destination Canada's domestic spring and summer campaign is designed to reframe what Canadians think they know about Canada by showing a different perspective on travel icons found across the country. The target audience is encouraged to look at long-haul domestic regions the same way they consider travelling abroad.

View Website →

 
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Canada Drops Pre-Arrival COVID-19 Testing For Vaccinated Travelers

Effective April 1, 2022, the federal government officially removed all pre-arrival COVID-19 testing requirements at the border for vaccinated travellers.

Key changes include:

  1. Fully vaccinated travellers do not need to complete a pre-entry test (they may still be selected for random tests on arrival but are not required to quarantine).

  2. Non vaccinated travellers will still need an on-arrival test and a day 8 test and must quarantine for 14 days.

  3. ArriveCAN is still needed for entry to Canada by all travellers.

Learn More →

 

Effective April 1, 2022, the federal government officially removed all pre-arrival COVID-19 testing requirements at the border for vaccinated travellers. 

Key changes include: 

  1. Fully vaccinated travellers do not need to complete a pre-entry test (they may still be selected for random tests on arrival but are not required to quarantine). 

  2. Non vaccinated travellers will still need an on-arrival test and a day 8 test and must quarantine for 14 days. 

  3. ArriveCAN is still needed for entry to Canada by all travellers.

Learn More →

 
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Tourism HR Canada | Important Facts & Figures

During the Provincial & Territorial Tourism Industry Association (PTTIA) committee that TIABC CEO Walt Judas chairs, the group reviewed THRC's updated facts and figures pertaining to the current employment situation in Canada's tourism and hospitality industry.

Read the full report →

 

During the Provincial & Territorial Tourism Industry Association (PTTIA) committee that TIABC CEO Walt Judas chairs, the group reviewed THRC's updated facts and figures pertaining to the current employment situation in Canada's tourism and hospitality industry. Among the findings presented by THRC president & CEO Philip Mondor:

Canada employed 430,000 fewer people this month than we did the same month pre-pandemic

Currently there are 200-250,000 vacancies (jobs unfilled) in our sector despite the current context with hampered recovery and COVID-related constraints

Less than 50% of businesses report they are fully staffed

60%+ of the tourism workforce is working part time or undetermined (i.e., week-to-week) hours

Great exodus of people working in operations/supervisory and management-level occupations, more than we've recorded in 20 years

Accommodation is hardest hit of the hardest hit, with employment down by 32% over the same period

Labour crisis is more acute in tourism than any other industry

Canada's aging population is putting a significant downward pressure on labour force participation

3.9 million jobs that will open between 2019 and 2028 with an ever-shrinking supply to meet demand.

Read the full report →


 
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Province Adjusting Paid Sick Leave Act

Harry Bains, Minister of Labour, has introduced changes to address two issues that have been raised since the five days of employer-paid sick leave came into effect on January 1, 2022. For ease of implementation, the act is being amended to reference “calendar year," which standardizes the annual entitlement period for all employees regardless of the start of their employment.

The total number of paid sick leave days per year will not be affected. It remains at five. To ensure government’s intent that the paid sick leave entitlement is applied to all employees in BC, the clause that relates to collective agreements is being amended.

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Harry Bains, BC Minister of Labour, has introduced changes to address two issues that have been raised since the five days of employer-paid sick leave came into effect on January 1, 2022.

For ease of implementation, the act is being amended to reference “calendar year," which standardizes the annual entitlement period for all employees regardless of the start of their employment. The total number of paid sick leave days per year will not be affected. It remains at five.

To ensure government’s intent that the paid sick leave entitlement is applied to all employees in BC, the clause that relates to collective agreements is being amended.

The changes will be effective upon Royal Assent, which is expected before the end of the current legislative session, to ensure the paid sick leave entitlement applies to the 2022 calendar year.

Learn More →

 
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Silver Star Resort Association Launches Destination Silver Star

Silver Star Resort Association launched Destination Silver Star to increase business opportunities for the Silver Star community while making it easier for visitors to discover all the family-friendly mountain adventures the destination offers. Destination Silver Star has a fresh new website full of engaging My Silver Star digital stories as well as the announcement of a series of summer activities that is sure to impress. This community and consumer-focused brand exists to maintain and enhance the Silver Star experience by growing the local economy, and increasing engagement through marketing, sales, media relations, events, research, and destination development.

Learn More →

 

SilverStar Resort Association launched Destination Silver Star to increase business opportunities for the Silver Star community while making it easier for visitors to discover all the family-friendly mountain adventures the destination offers.

Destination Silver Star has a fresh new website full of engaging My Silver Star digital stories as well as the announcement of a series of summer activities that is sure to impress. This community and consumer-focused brand exists to maintain and enhance the Silver Star experience by growing the local economy, and increasing engagement through marketing, sales, media relations, events, research, and destination development.

Learn More →

 
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Historic Declaration Action Plan Guides BC Indigenous Reconciliation and UNDRIP Implementation

The Declaration Act Action Plan was released by the provincial government mapping out 89 specific actions to be taken across all government ministries over the next five years.

Developed in consultation and co-operation with Indigenous Peoples, the Action Plan will be comprehensively updated with Indigenous partners within five years, and a report on implementation progress will be developed in partnership with Indigenous Peoples and submitted to the B.C. Legislature by June 30 each year.

A number of the goals include but are not limited to:

  1. Provide funding to assist Indigenous tourism businesses that have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, in order to further support recovery of the Indigenous tourism sector in BC.

  2. Provide investments to Indigenous Tourism BC to support Indigenous tourism, Indigenous job creation, preservation of Indigenous languages, celebration of Indigenous cultures and the stewardship of territories, and to tell the stories of Indigenous Peoples in B.C. in their own words.

British Columbia is the first province to release an action plan dedicated to implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People (UN Declaration) in Canada.

Learn More →

 

The Declaration Act Action Plan was released by the provincial government mapping out 89 specific actions to be taken across all government ministries over the next five years.

Developed in consultation and co-operation with Indigenous Peoples, the Action Plan will be comprehensively updated with Indigenous partners within five years, and a report on implementation progress will be developed in partnership with Indigenous Peoples and submitted to the B.C. Legislature by June 30 each year.

A number of the goals include but are not limited to:

  1. Provide funding to assist Indigenous tourism businesses that have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, in order to further support recovery of the Indigenous tourism sector in BC.

  2. Provide investments to Indigenous Tourism BC to support Indigenous tourism, Indigenous job creation, preservation of Indigenous languages, celebration of Indigenous cultures and the stewardship of territories, and to tell the stories of Indigenous Peoples in B.C. in their own words.

British Columbia is the first province to release an action plan dedicated to implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People (UN Declaration) in Canada.

Learn More →

 
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Newly Launched Destination Canada Marketing Campaigns Capture US and Domestic Opportunities

As border measures ease, Destination Canada is focused on driving revenue back into tourism businesses across the country. It is expected US visitors to Canada will lead recovery efforts with over 5 million visitors to Canada expected in 2022, contributing $4 billion to Canadian businesses, destinations and communities. The US Campaign comes to life through the “Refresh Your View” concept, leaning into American travellers’ need for self-enrichment. The campaign puts Canada’s most iconic destinations at the forefront to reclaim interest and consideration for Canada, and to expand American travellers' knowledge of the wealth of experiences available in the regions surrounding these icons.

Learn More →

 

As border measures ease, Destination Canada is focused on driving revenue back into tourism businesses across the country. It is expected US visitors to Canada will lead recovery efforts with over 5 million visitors to Canada expected in 2022, contributing $4 billion to Canadian businesses, destinations and communities.

The US Campaign comes to life through the “Refresh Your View” concept, leaning into American travellers’ need for self-enrichment. The campaign puts Canada’s most iconic destinations at the forefront to reclaim interest and consideration for Canada, and to expand American travellers' knowledge of the wealth of experiences available in the regions surrounding these icons.

Learn More →

 
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E-Petition Opposing Escalator Excise Tax on Alcohol

The escalator excise tax is an automatic increase in taxes on wine, beer, cider, and spirits as of April 1, 2022. This increase will add costs to retailers, hospitality businesses, and consumers at a time when prices are already increasing due to inflation, labour costs, supply chain issues, and more.

Federal Member of Parliament Tracy Gray (Kelowna-Lake Country), launched an e-petition calling upon the Government of Canada to freeze the automatic escalator excise tax increase.

Freezing this tax increase will help limit retail price increases by offsetting the rising costs and supply chain disruptions facing beverage alcohol producers across Canada.

Sign the Petition →

 

The escalator excise tax is an automatic increase in taxes on wine, beer, cider, and spirits as of April 1, 2022. This increase will add costs to retailers, hospitality businesses, and consumers at a time when prices are already increasing due to inflation, labour costs, supply chain issues, and more.

Federal Member of Parliament Tracy Gray (Kelowna-Lake Country), launched an e-petition calling upon the Government of Canada to freeze the automatic escalator excise tax increase.

Freezing this tax increase will help limit retail price increases by offsetting the rising costs and supply chain disruptions facing beverage alcohol producers across Canada.

Sign the Petition →

 
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Visit TOTA & go2HR at TRUE Penticton Tourism Expo & Job Fair

TOTA and go2HR team members will be at the TRUE Penticton Tourism Expo & Job Fair on Saturday, April 9, ready to meet with attendees.

Come say hello to our team members and learn about programs available to support tourism businesses and professionals, such as:

This FREE tourism event will give you a unique opportunity to meet with local tourism businesses and learn more about The Remarkable Unique Experiences that keep visitors coming back to Penticton year after year. Discover new adventures and reacquaint yourself with all of the amazing activities, attractions, accommodations, restaurants, wineries, breweries, cideries, events and so much more happening in and around Penticton.

This is also a great opportunity to bring your resume and find the perfect summer job, volunteer opportunity, or a career in the tourism and hospitality industry.

Attendees can enter to win a variety of prizes. The TOTA prizes are:

  • Sustainable Travel Box from Okanagan Valley Vagabonds, curated with eco-conscious travel items.

  • Two bracelets from Jewels of HOPE, which supports vulnerable women in the Okanagan to gather in a safe place to learn artisanal bracelet making skills that help them transition to further employment and educational opportunities.

Learn More & Register →

 

TOTA and go2HR team members will be at the TRUE Penticton Tourism Expo & Job Fair on Saturday, April 9, ready to meet with attendees.

Come say hello to our team members and learn about programs available to support tourism businesses and professionals, such as:

This FREE tourism event will give you a unique opportunity to meet with local tourism businesses and learn more about The Remarkable Unique Experiences that keep visitors coming back to Penticton year after year. Discover new adventures and reacquaint yourself with all of the amazing activities, attractions, accommodations, restaurants, wineries, breweries, cideries, events and so much more happening in and around Penticton.

This is also a great opportunity to bring your resume and find the perfect summer job, volunteer opportunity, or a career in the tourism and hospitality industry.

Attendees can enter to win a variety of prizes. The TOTA prizes are:

  • Sustainable Travel Box from Okanagan Valley Vagabonds, curated with eco-conscious travel items.

  • Two bracelets from Jewels of HOPE, which supports vulnerable women in the Okanagan to gather in a safe place to learn artisanal bracelet making skills that help them transition to further employment and educational opportunities.

Learn More & Register →

 
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Small Business BC Awards Thompson Okanagan Finalists | Attend the Free Virtual Awards Gala on April 28

The Small Business BC Awards finalists have been selected and winners will be announced at the Virtual Awards Presentation on April 28, 2022.

Register for a FREE ticket and secure your place to celebrate the best of BC’s small business community.

Thompson Okanagan finalists include Friendly Composting Inc. and Afrofusion, both in Kamloops.

View All Finalists →

 

The Small Business BC Awards finalists have been selected and winners will be announced at the Virtual Awards Presentation on April 28, 2022.

Register for a FREE ticket and secure your place to celebrate the best of BC’s small business community.

Thompson Okanagan Finalists

Business Impact Award

Friendly Composting Inc.

Kamloops

Friendly Composting provides weekly compost pick up and local product delivery in beautiful, Kamloops BC. Founders Katie Forsyth and Claire McLoughlin are on a mission to  make it simple for you to make an impact and choose LOCAL!

Learn More →

Premier's Peoples Choice

Afrofusion

Kamloops

Afrofusion is a black-owned business that provides tasty African and western cuisine to the people of Kamloops and beyond. To the founders, Afrofusion is more than just food; it is a feeling and a representation of hopes, dreams, perseverance, and community service.

Learn More →

View Finalists →

 
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More Recovery Support Coming for BC's Arts & Culture Sector

More than $12.4 million in one-time funding to the BC Arts Council will offer support to BC artists and organizations as the Province continues to build back from the COVID-19 pandemic.

From this funding, the BC Arts Council will distribute $7.9 million in resiliency supplements to more than 300 organizations currently receiving operating assistance. The average grant amount is $25,000.

Additionally, BC Arts Council has allocated $4.5 million to top up the Arts Impact Grant program, which closed its intake in January 2022. The next intake of this program is anticipated for winter 2023.

Funding is available to organizations and collectives with an arts and culture mandate or a dedicated arts and culture program. Grants are available to non-profit organizations, Indigenous communities and community organizations.

View Announcement →

 

More than $12.4 million in one-time funding to the BC Arts Council will offer support to BC artists and organizations as the Province continues to build back from the COVID-19 pandemic.

From this funding, the BC Arts Council will distribute $7.9 million in resiliency supplements to more than 300 organizations currently receiving operating assistance. The average grant amount is $25,000.

Additionally, BC Arts Council has allocated $4.5 million to top up the Arts Impact Grant program, which closed its intake in January 2022. The next intake of this program is anticipated for winter 2023.

Funding is available to organizations and collectives with an arts and culture mandate or a dedicated arts and culture program. Grants are available to non-profit organizations, Indigenous communities and community organizations.

View Announcement →

 
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Submit Your TESA Application

ABLE BC has been hard at work advocating with the province to extend the TESA deadline, while also engaging with municipalities across BC to reduce red tape and cut fees associated with patio applications. In response to a joint letter, ABLE has begun to receive positive feedback from some municipalities and are confident that they will review and update patio application processes.

While work is being done to have the TESA deadline extended, we strongly encourage you to get your application in now.

Learn More →

 

ABLE BC has been hard at work advocating with the province to extend the TESA deadline, while also engaging with municipalities across BC to reduce red tape and cut fees associated with patio applications. In response to a joint letter, ABLE has begun to receive positive feedback from some municipalities and are confident that they will review and update patio application processes.

Key recommendations include:

  • Extend current patio programs without implementing new restrictions or fees;

  • Streamline approvals to ensure those small businesses who have been safely and successfully operating patios may continue to do so;

  • Increase flexibility for patio types and sizes as well as the number of patios allowed;

  • Increase the space use of existing patios or picnic areas to allow chairs to be spread out to meet distancing requirements;

  • Allow pop-up outdoor dining and manufacturer sampling spaces;

  • Allow and increase the use of parklets and public space for dining;

  • Allow any increase in patio, picnic area or outdoor space being considered a continuation of an establishment’s existing approved alcohol service area or manufacturers’ sampling area to provide samples and not require additional endorsements or authorizations; and

  • Coordinate with any relevant bodies—such as the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch, Fire Department, etc.—to reduce red tape and speed approval timelines wherever possible.

While work is being done to have the TESA deadline extended, we strongly encourage you to get your application in now. To apply you will need:

  • An updated floor plan that clearly shows the structural change

  • These plans generally require an occupancy load

If you are a Liquor Primary or Manufacturer licensee, your structural change application will be sent to your local government for their comments.

Learn More →


 
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Job Opportunity: Director of Partnerships, Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada

ITAC is hiring for a Director of Partnerships to join its growing team. Reporting to the president and CEO, this position is responsible for supporting relationships, partnerships, as well as developing and implementing programs across Canada to establish and grow regional Indigenous tourism associations. The Director of Partnerships will oversee corporate communications, internal market research, international projects, and memberships. The Director of Partnerships will also work with and support the Executive Management team, including the president and CEO, as it relates to partnerships.

Learn More →

 

ITAC is hiring for a Director of Partnerships to join its growing team. Reporting to the president and CEO, this position is responsible for supporting relationships, partnerships, as well as developing and implementing programs across Canada to establish and grow regional Indigenous tourism associations.

The Director of Partnerships will oversee corporate communications, internal market research, international projects, and memberships. The Director of Partnerships will also work with and support the Executive Management team, including the president and CEO, as it relates to partnerships.

Learn More →

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SDGs

  • SDG 1: No Poverty
  • SDG 2: Zero Hunger
  • SDG 3: Good Health & Wellbeing
  • SDG 4: Quality Education
  • SDG 5: Gender Equality
  • SDG 6: Clean Water & Sanitization
  • SDG 7: Affordable & Clean Energy
  • SDG 8: Decent Work & Economic Growth
  • SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, & Infrastructure
  • SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
  • SDG 11: Sustainable Cities & Communities
  • SDG 12: Responsible Consumption & Production
  • SDG 13: Climate Action
  • SDG 14: Life Below Water
  • SDG 15: Life on Land
  • SDG 16: Peace, Justice, & Strong Institutions
  • SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
  • SDG 18: Indigenous Reconciliation
 
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Jobs for Ukraine: Connect with Ukrainian Refugees Seeking Employment

Ukrainians are coming to Canada to escape the crisis in their country. When they arrive, many will look for a job. The Government of Canada has created a dedicated job bank to help connect Ukrainian refugees with employment opportunities. Accommodators looking to fill job vacancies can create a profile and post available employment opportunities.

Learn More →

 

Ukrainians are coming to Canada to escape the crisis in their country. When they arrive, many will look for a job. The Government of Canada has created a dedicated job bank to help connect Ukrainian refugees with employment opportunities. Accommodators looking to fill job vacancies can create a profile and post available employment opportunities.

Learn More →


 
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Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada Releases Third Edition of Nations, an Indigenous Lifestyle Magazine

The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) is pleased to announce the release of the third edition of Nations, ITAC’s annual Indigenous lifestyle magazine celebrating 140 export-ready Indigenous tourism experiences from coast to coast to coast. This year’s edition features stories in categories such as wildlife, nature and adventure; culture and heritage; Indigenous culinary; and accommodations and relaxation.

Download a copy of the Nations, an Indigenous Lifestyle Magazine →

 

The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) is pleased to announce the release of the third edition of Nations, ITAC’s annual Indigenous lifestyle magazine celebrating 140 export-ready Indigenous tourism experiences from coast to coast to coast. This year’s edition features stories in categories such as wildlife, nature and adventure; culture and heritage; Indigenous culinary; and accommodations and relaxation.

This year’s edition of Nations includes individual features of Indigenous storytellers and artisans and explores exciting topics such as how to see the northern lights with an Indigenous eye; shared traditions and storied history; Indigenous wildlife tours and safaris; and sustainability in Indigenous tourism. The online version of this magazine includes enhanced content where readers can further engage with stories by clicking the “Explore Further Online” icons throughout the magazine.

Turning a corner from COVID-19, Indigenous tourism businesses are ready to welcome visitors back. Nationally, ITAC believes a full recovery of the Indigenous tourism industry is possible by 2025-26 and continues to leverage strong domestic and global demand for exceptional, export-ready Indigenous tourism experiences.

Download a copy of the Nations, an Indigenous Lifestyle Magazine →

 
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HeliCat Canada Unveils Unique Carbon Offset Strategy A Wildlife & Environment Research Fund Project

HeliCat Canada and its member organizations have taken proactive steps towards sustainability, continually pushing innovation in efficient and renewable energy use wherever possible. Understanding the realities of Heli and Cat-ski operations, carbon offsets are an essential tool for HeliCat members and guests to compensate for emissions that currently cannot be eliminate through other means. The purpose of the HeliCat Canada carbon offset strategy is to provide a simple, industry-specific manual that guides the Canadian HeliCat industry, member operations and guests to effectively navigate the carbon offset world, use carbon offsets to achieve net zero GHG emissions, and achieve other sustainable targets.

Read the Full Strategy →

 

HeliCat Canada and its member organizations have taken proactive steps towards sustainability, continually pushing innovation in efficient and renewable energy use wherever possible. Understanding the realities of Heli and Cat-ski operations, carbon offsets are an essential tool for HeliCat members and guests to compensate for emissions that currently cannot be eliminate through other means.

The purpose of the HeliCat Canada carbon offset strategy is to provide a simple, industry-specific manual that guides the Canadian HeliCat industry, member operations and guests to effectively navigate the carbon offset world, use carbon offsets to achieve net zero GHG emissions, and achieve other sustainable targets.

Read the Full Strategy →

 
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Reminder: Canada Digital Adoption Program Grants & Loans to Improve Your Online Presence

The Government of Canada launched the Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP) to help Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) realize their full potential by adopting digital technologies.

Businesses can apply for two different kinds of support through the CDAP:

  • Stream 1: Grow Your Business Online, will help SMEs take advantage of e-commerce opportunities.

  • Stream 2: Boost Your Business Technology, will help businesses with the development and implementation of digital adoption strategies.

Learn More & Apply →

 

The Government of Canada has launched the Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP) to help Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) realize their full potential by adopting digital technologies.

Announced in Budget 2021, the $4 billion program is an investment of $1.4 billion in grants and advisory services to SMEs from the Government of Canada and up to $2.6 billion in loans from the Business Development Bank of Canada to help businesses cover the costs of implementing new digital technologies.

The program provides funding and expertise to businesses, as well as training and work opportunities for young Canadians.

Businesses will be able to apply for two different kinds of support through the CDAP:

  • Stream 1: Grow Your Business Online, will help SMEs take advantage of e-commerce opportunities.

  • Stream 2: Boost Your Business Technology, will help businesses with the development and implementation of digital adoption strategies.

Learn More & Apply →


 
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Tourism Leadership Essentials 7-Week Program | Applications Open Until April 8

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is partnering with Okanagan College to offer the Tourism Leadership Essentials Program for Thompson Okanagan tourism professionals, free of charge through the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Resiliency Program, part of the BC Tourism Resiliency Network.

Held from April 12 to May 26 on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6 PM - 8 PM, the seven-part series consists of 2-hour online workshops, twice a week for seven weeks with Okanagan College tourism professors. Each part focuses on specific leadership skills required in today’s multi-faceted workplaces.

Due to an abundance of interest, applications are no longer being considered for this intake. Thompson Okanagan tourism industry professionals are invited to apply to be added to the waitlist for a future program series.

Apply →

 

April 12 – May 26, 2022

Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6 PM - 8 PM

Application Deadline: April 8, 2022

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is partnering with Okanagan College to offer the Tourism Leadership Essentials Program for Thompson Okanagan tourism professionals, free of charge through the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Resiliency Program, part of the BC Tourism Resiliency Network.

The seven-part series consists of 2-hour online workshops, twice a week for seven weeks with Okanagan College tourism professors. Each part focuses on specific leadership skills required in today’s multi-faceted workplaces.

Participants will discover their leadership style, develop management skills, learn about teams, engagement, communication, conflict resolution, and goal setting.

The program is meant to develop skills for both aspiring leaders and seasoned veterans, with insights and tangible strategies that can be applied immediately in the workplace.


Availability is limited. While priority will be given to professionals currently employed in the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry, other professionals may be eligible.

Application Details

Applications are now closed. If you wish to be informed of future leadership training opportunities, complete the following form:

Schedule & Topics

Each week of the Tourism Leadership Essentials Program will include two instructor-led virtual sessions, plus two hours of independent work covering the followings topics:

Week 1: April 12 & 14 | Leading Workplace Teams

Learn about the skills and tools effective leaders require, how personal values impact leadership, as well as how to develop realistic visions, manage change and promote innovation.

Week 2: April 19 & 21 | Engaging Your Workforce

A highly engaged workforce results in less turnover, better customer service and increased profits. Gain strategies for engaging and motivating employees to foster new ideas and identify solutions in the workplace. Learn about motivation, teamwork, and the stages of teamwork.

Week 3: April 26 & 28 | Communicating Beyond the Basics

Communication is a key component in successful workplaces. Learn how to build respectful and productive relationships with staff and customers. Learn how you communicate, the challenges in communicating effectively, and how to improve your listening skills. Develop a methodology to plan for change.

Week 4: May 3 & 5 | Managing Conflict

Conflicts arise in all workplaces and it’s up to leaders to manage them. Response to conflict defines the result. See the connections between responses and actions and then identify shifts to build better relationships. Gain strategies for dealing with difficult people, having difficult conversations, and providing meaningful feedback.

Week 5: May 10 & 12 | Goal Setting and Time Management

Gain a methodology to tie all objectives and aspirations into a planned approach, matched with resources and timelines to meet goals. Learn how to use time effectively to keep feeling motivated and prevent feelings of overwhelm. The planning and goal setting strategies provided in this course ensure time invested results in solid and measurable results.

Week 6: May 17 & 19 | Change Management

Change is inevitable and not always easy. Learn to lead during times of change by gaining knowledge, skills and strategies that lead to successful change management. Explore reasons for change and factors that influence this process, as well as the impact of change on innovation.

Week 7: May 24 & 26 | Coaching & Developing Employees

Coaching employees builds stronger relationships between managers and their team members. Through coaching, employees are supported in developing the skills they require to reach organizational goals and strategic objectives. This course provides learners with strategies they can use to ensure their employees are engaged in their own personal growth resulting in a positive impact on the organization.

 
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2022 Big Splash Raffle by Sport Fishing Institute of BC | Early bird: May 20. Grand prize: July 1

The Sport Fishing Institute of BC is having their BIG Spring Raffle. Get the chance to win a trip to the Langara Fishing Lodge in Haida Gwaii, or even to Newton Cove Resort. Early Bird Prize draws on May 20th and Grand prize and Trip Draws will be made on July 1st. Tickets: $20

Learn More & Purchase →

 

The Sport Fishing Institute of BC is having their BIG Spring Raffle. Get the chance to win a trip to the Langara Fishing Lodge in Haida Gwaii, or even to Newton Cove Resort.

Early Bird Prize draws on May 20th and Grand prize and Trip Draws will be made on July 1.

Tickets: $20

Learn More & Purchase →

 
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