News & Resources

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

 
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Destination Canada Announces New Tourism Strategy

Destination Canada President and CEO Marsha Walden and The Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism, launched the new tourism strategy at Rendez-vous Canada in Edmonton, titled "A World of Opportunity." 

 

Destination Canada President and CEO Marsha Walden and The Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism, launched the new tourism strategy at Rendez-vous Canada in Edmonton, titled "A World of Opportunity." 

This strategy focuses on transforming the tourism sector and positioning Canada back in the top seven global destinations by 2030. 

The plan follows four strategic drivers: sector advancement, brand leadership, destination development, and collective intelligence. 

For more information, see the Destination Canada Strategic Plan. 

 
 
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Last chance: Register for TOTA Golf Tournament and enter win great prizes

This year, the 30th on the 30th TOTA Annual Golf Tournament, will the biggest and best golf tournament yet - and there's still time to register and be entered to win 2 Air Canada Round-Trip economy tickets to anywhere Air Canada flies within North America including Hawaii.

 

 

 
 
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Watercraft transportation legal requirements to prevent invasive species, effective May 17, 2024

Effective May 17, 2024 in B.C. it is now illegal to transport your watercraft with the drain plug still in place, in order to prevent invasive species. Before transporting a boat or other watercraft, owners/operators must remove the drain plug and drain all water on dry land including all internal compartments such as ballasts, bilges, and live wells. Allow a minimum of 24 hours drying time for watercraft and/or equipment before entering new waters.

 

Effective May 17, 2024 in B.C. it is now illegal to transport your watercraft with the drain plug still in place.

Before transporting a boat or other watercraft, owners/operators must remove the drain plug and drain all water on dry land including all internal compartments such as ballasts, bilges, and live wells. Operators should also allow a minimum of 24 hours drying time for watercraft and/or equipment before entering new waters.

Learn more:

 
 
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Erik Fisher Appointed as New CEO of Tourism Kamloops

Tourism Kamloops' Board of Directors announced the appointment of Erik Fisher as the organization's new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.

 

Tourism Kamloops' Board of Directors announced the appointment of Erik Fisher as the organization's new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.

Erik brings a wealth of tourism experience including brand and destination development at several premium winery establishments across BC, including Kamloops’ own Monte Creek Winery.

Erik is no stranger to the tourism landscape of Kamloops, having contributed to the local industry and serving on many boards, including the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) and Wine Growers British Columbia. Under Erik’s leadership, Tourism Kamloops will focus on leveraging his expertise in destination development and strategic brand marketing to enhance the city's profile as a must-visit location. His appointment comes at a time when the organization is poised to take significant strides in promoting tourism and fostering economic growth within the region.

 
 

Any relevant sub regions: North Okanagan, Central Okanagan, South Okanagan, Similkameen, North Thompson, South Thompson, Gold Country, Boundary Country, Shuswap

  • Sectors

    • Wine & Spirits

    • Accommodation

    • Transportation

    • Outdoor Adventures

    • CDMOs

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Township 7 Winery launches Annual Support, Ship & Sip campaign to support industry members in need

In the month of May, Township 7 will donate $10 from every online purchase to the BCHF, in addition to collecting direct donations on behalf of the charity. Visit Township 7 campaign page during the month of May to make a purchase or direct donation.

 

Township 7 Winery has announced the launch of its fifth annual Ship, Sip & Support charity campaign, benefiting the BC Hospitality Foundation (BCHF). Dedicated to assisting hospitality and tourism workers facing unexpected health challenges, BCHF has provided critical support to over 300 individuals since its inception in 2006.

In the month of May, Township 7 will donate $10 from every online purchase to the BCHF, in addition to collecting direct donations on behalf of the charity. These contributions will directly aid BCHF's mission of providing essential financial assistance to those in need within the hospitality industry.

Supporters can join Township 7 Winery in their efforts by visiting Township 7 campaign page during the month of May to make a purchase or make a direct donation.

 
 

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New Biosphere Commitment Program Member: Prestige Beach House Kelowna

Join TOTA in welcoming the Prestige Beach House Kelowna to the Biosphere Commitment Program. The Biosphere Program ensured that the ecological efforts and the service Prestige Beach House Kelowna provided to their guests aligned with their sustainable actions.

 

Join TOTA in welcoming Prestige Beach House Kelowna to the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program.

The Prestige Beach House is located in downtown Kelowna, BC, and is the first accommodation you’ll see when entering Kelowna off the W.R. Bennett Bridge. It is located directly across the street from Kelowna’s City Park, offering visitors a prime location to the lake and all the amenities of downtown Kelowna. 

Sustainability Initiatives 

The Prestige Beach House Kelowna is inspired to make sustainable choices by following the company's Prestige in Balance program. Joining the Biosphere Program ensured that their ecological efforts and the service they provide to their guests aligned with their sustainable actions and with the help of their Biosphere Program Success Advisor, Prestige Beach House discovered the resources for sustainable initiatives available to them as Biosphere Program members.  The Prestige Beach House Kelowna is working on sustainability initiatives in all three of the SDG fields, including environment and climate change, society and culture, and governance and economy, as they work towards certification.

Assistant General Manager Tyler Bolen believes that Biosphere is an essential program “for a real serious look into the world of sustainability,” and offers businesses a “platform to see how globally businesses compare to each other globally and how the standards vary from place to place.”

Biosphere Commitment Program 

The Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program is a sustainability program offered by the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association. The focus is to equip tourism businesses in the region with tools and resources to continuously measure, manage, and report sustainability management efforts. The program prepares businesses for a globally recognized certification, to show alignment of business operations with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Destination Certification.

Organizations can create customized sustainability plans through the Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle platform and access dedicated support from industry experts.

Learn more about TOTA’s Biosphere Commitment Program

Book a Biosphere Introduction Presentation

 
 
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New Biosphere Commitment Program Member: Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa

Join TOTA in welcoming Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa to the Biosphere Commitment Program. Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa is committed to preserving the natural beauty of the Okanagan Valley for generations to come. They believe sustainable practices can benefit the current and future environment while providing eco-conscious guest experiences.

 

Join TOTA in welcoming Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa to the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program.

Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa is tucked in between Penticton and Kelowna in beautiful Summerland, BC. The resort is located on Okanagan Lake and offers countless amenities for visitors to enjoy throughout the year including live music evenings, yoga, painting sessions, Wine Wednesdays, and numerous family activities. Visitors can also enjoy the onsite spa, watercraft rentals, and restaurants as well as nearby wineries, cideries, and breweries. 

Sustainability Initiatives

Summerland Waterfront Resort is committed to preserving the natural beauty of the Okanagan Valley for generations to come. They believe sustainable practices can benefit the current and future environment while providing eco-conscious guest experiences.

Summerland Waterfront Resort worked closely with TOTA’s Biosphere Program Success Advisor, Kavan, who helped guide the resort towards being Biosphere Committed. Once they started, the resort was pleasantly surprised at how quickly they could progress through implementing sustainable changes to their current business practices. The guidance and support from the program and platform helped them navigate and understand the steps necessary to achieve the sustainability goals they had made for themselves. 

General Manager Lisa Jaager invites others in the tourism industry to use the Biosphere Program to implement sustainable actions into their business practices. “We would encourage other businesses to embrace the challenge and take the first step, as the rewards of participating in the Biosphere program extend far beyond initial hurdles. It has been a transformative experience for us, and we believe it can be for others as well.” 

Biosphere Commitment Program 

The Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program is a sustainability program offered by the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association. The focus is to equip tourism businesses in the region with tools and resources to continuously measure, manage, and report sustainability management efforts. The program prepares businesses for a globally recognized certification, to show alignment of business operations with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Destination Certification.

Organizations can create customized sustainability plans through the Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle platform and access dedicated support from industry experts.

Learn more about TOTA’s Biosphere Commitment Program

Book a Biosphere Introduction Presentation

 
 
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Register for the TOTA Golf Tournament & enter for chance to win 2 Air Canada Round-Trip Tickets

Golfers registered by Friday, May 24 will have a chance to win 2 Air Canada Round-Trip economy tickets to anywhere Air Canada flies.

 

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Wells Gray Tours Donates $50,000 to BC Parks Foundation, for expansion of Okanagan Lake Provincial Park

Wells Gray Tours, a leading tour operator with five offices in British Columbia, announced their annual donation of $50,000 to the BC Parks Foundation. This generous contribution will support the acquisition of 28 acres on Okanagan Lake and the expansion of Okanagan Lake Provincial Park.

 

Wells Gray Tours, a leading tour operator with five offices in British Columbia, announced their annual donation of $50,000 to the BC Parks Foundation. This generous contribution will support the acquisition of 28 acres on Okanagan Lake and the expansion of Okanagan Lake Provincial Park.

Founded in May 1972 by Roland Neave, Wells Gray Tours emerged from a fervent mission to protect the natural wonders of Wells Gray Park. Initially conceived to advocate against proposed dams on the Clearwater River, the company has since grown into the largest outbound tour operator in the B.C. Interior. Over the past 52 years, Wells Gray Tours has remained steadfast in its dedication to offering unparalleled travel experiences while championing environmental sustainability.

"The heart of Wells Gray Tours has always been a burning desire to preserve the natural beauty of our environment," said Roland Neave, Founder of Wells Gray Tours. "Our commitment to environmental stewardship is woven into the fabric of our company.  We are proud to continue this tradition and the donation is given on a rotational basis each year through one of our five offices, Kamloops, Kelowna. Penticton, Vernon, and Victoria who select a project. Our Kelowna office this year has chosen to support the BC Parks Foundation in their efforts to protect and expand Okanagan Lake Provincial Park."

The donation from Wells Gray Tours will contribute significantly to the BC Parks Foundation's mission to enhance and expand the park. The acquisition of additional land on Okanagan Lake will not only safeguard vital habitats, but also provide greater opportunities for outdoor recreation and education for generations to come.

The 2025 donation of $50,000 will be handled by Wells Gray Tours' Penticton office and will go to an environmental or conservation project in the South Okanagan. Charitable organizations are welcome to submit proposals until April 30, 2025.

For more information contact Joan Niemeier, 1-250-826-6650.

 
 
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St. Jude's Anglican Church in Greenwood Destroyed by Fire

A massive overnight fire in Greenwood, BC destroyed the original St. Jude’s Anglican Church and historic elementary school, as a well as one home. No lives were lost and the rest of the town was protected, thanks to the hard work of the firefighters.

 

A massive overnight fire in Greenwood, BC destroyed the original St. Jude’s Anglican Church, the historic elementary school, one home, and a garage. No lives were lost and the rest of the town was protected, thanks to the hard work of the firefighters.

The church dated to 1901, and was the second oldest remaining church in Greenwood. The building was a connection to the earliest days of the city and the region. Over 123 years, generations attended for baptisms, weddings, funerals, and other events.

Our hearts go out to the community of Greenwood and the many people who felt a connection to the St. Jude’s Anglican Church.

 
 
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Predator Ridge Announces Ritz-Carlton Residences

Predator Ridge is bringing the Ritz-Carlton Residences to the Okanagan region in 2026. This is the first Ritz-Carlton standalone branded residential development in Western Canada.

 

Congratulations to Predator Ridge as they bring a luxury brand to the Okanagan Region. Predator Ridge, owned by Wesbild Holdings Ltd., will build the prestigious Ritz-Carlton Residences, Okanagan, in 2026. This will be the first Ritz-Carlton standalone branded residential development in Western Canada.

The development will be situated above the Outlook neighborhood and feature high-end luxury homes and villas. The Residences are a major step forward for Predator Ridge and the surrounding area, providing ample opportunities to stimulate growth within the Canadian economy. 

There has been a growing consumer demand for branded, standalone properties within resort-style, amenity-rich communities with Residences currently in Montreal and Toronto. The Ritz-Carlton is a world-renowned luxury brand that is continuing to grow in Canada.

For more information, see the Predator Ridge Media Release. 

 
 
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New Biosphere Commitment Program Member: Baldy Mountain Resort

Join TOTA in welcoming Baldy Mountain Resort to the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program. The team at Baldy Mountain Resort understands that even small sustainable actions and initiatives can make a huge difference and become part of the company culture.

 

Join TOTA in welcoming Baldy Mountain Resort to the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program.

Baldy Mountain Resort was founded in 1968 after a passionate community saw the potential for the outdoor adventures possible on Baldy Mountain in Oliver, BC. Since its early beginnings, the resort has been beloved by residents and visitors alike.  Renowned for its light, dry powder it has continued to adjust and adapt with the installation of additional ski lifts and growing activities for all ages and skill levels.

Sustainability Initiatives

Baldy Mountain Resort’s Biosphere lead, Troy Lucas, found learning about the possible sustainability initiatives for businesses to implement both humbling and eye-opening. Troy has long told others in the tourism industry that even small actions and initiatives make an impact and that acting sustainably becomes part of company culture that employees take pride in. 

Baldy Mountain Resort is working towards becoming a sustainable, year-round destination. One way they are doing this is their human-made lake at the resort which will act as a fire suppression and water source in the summer and can also be used as a skating surface for guests in the winter.

We look forward to seeing these and other sustainability initiatives at Baldy Mountain Resort.

Biosphere Commitment Program 

The Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program is a sustainability program offered by the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association. The focus is to equip tourism businesses in the region with tools and resources to continuously measure, manage, and report sustainability management efforts. The program prepares businesses for a globally recognized certification, to show alignment of business operations with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Destination Certification.

Organizations can create customized sustainability plans through the Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle platform and access dedicated support from industry experts.

Learn more about TOTA’s Biosphere Commitment Program

Book a Biosphere Introduction Presentation

 
 
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New Biosphere Commitment Program Member: Destination Osoyoos

Join TOTA in welcoming Destination Osoyoos to the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program. Destination Osoyoos is dedicated to preserving the region so residents and visitors can enjoy Osoyoos for years to come.

 

Join TOTA in welcoming Destination Osoyoos to the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program. 

Destination Osoyoos is committed to providing awareness and destination marketing for Osoyoos, at the southernmost point of the Thompson Okanagan region. Osoyoos is home to a desert environment, some of the warmest average temperatures, and the warmest fresh-water lake in Canada. It is fitting that they offer Canada’s warmest welcome to visitors who can experience wineries, activities, and the rich Indigenous culture of the Syilx Osoyoos Indian Band all year round.

Sustainability Initiatives 

Destination Osoyoos is dedicated to preserving the region so residents and visitors can enjoy Osoyoos for years to come. Their efforts in the Biosphere program have provided positive examples of how to travel and enjoy the region in an environmentally friendly way that ensures preservation, supports long-term economic viability, and responds to consumer demands for eco-friendly options. 

When they first started working towards the Biosphere Commitment designation, Destination Osoyoos believed that it would involve a lot of resources and a large time commitment. However, they found they were already fulfilling many action items of the UN Sustainable Development Goals in their day-to-day operations. As well, the support from their Program Success Advisor made it easier to ensure they were meeting their goals. 

Destination Osoyoos is utilizing the program to create marketing initiatives to help promote sustainable tourism experiences like biodynamic and organic wine and culinary offerings.

The newly launched sustainability landing page showcases their organization's efforts towards sustainability and encourages visitors to choose responsible tourism practices while they visit the community, including leaving no trace, acknowledging the Indigenous Host Nations, reducing consumption, and choosing greener transportation. 

Biosphere Commitment Program 

The Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program is a sustainability program offered by the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association. The focus is to equip tourism businesses in the region with tools and resources to continuously measure, manage, and report sustainability management efforts. The program prepares businesses for a globally recognized certification, to show alignment of business operations with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Destination Certification.

Organizations can create customized sustainability plans through the Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle platform and access dedicated support from industry experts.

Learn more about TOTA’s Biosphere Commitment Program

Book a Biosphere Introduction Presentation

 
 
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Destination BC Co-op Tourism Marketing Partnerships and Thompson Okanagan Travel Resources

Destination BC (DBC) announced $4.38M in funding to help partners drive consumer demand, educate visitors on responsible travel practices, and increase tourism revenues in communities through destination and activity sector marketing initiatives across the province, including in the Thompson Okanagan.

 

Destination BC (DBC) announced $4.38M in funding to help partners drive consumer demand, educate visitors on responsible travel practices, and increase tourism revenues in communities through destination and activity sector marketing initiatives across the province.

The Co-operative Marketing Partnerships Program invests resources into marketing that supports responsible, short-haul visitation in more seasons, and more areas of the province. This year, the program expanded its initiative eligibility criteria to include visitor education marketing, emphasizing Destination BC’s – and the BC tourism industry’s – commitment to responsible tourism.

Thompson Okanagan projects include:

NEW: Explore North Okanagan

The communities of Vernon, Lumby, the Okanagan Indian Band, and Destination Silver Star are embodying the spirit of the Co-op program for their latest venture, collaborating this year to create Explore North Okanagan. This new collective, led by Destination Silver Star, aims to create a cohesive way to move all travellers throughout the region, create educational messaging around minimizing impacts to communities and nature, and share the living history and stories of local Indigenous cultures.

Land of Hidden Waters

Led by the Fishing Highway Tourism Association and partnered with Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association, Tourism Wells Gray, and Tourism Kamloops, Land of Hidden Waters promotes the unique beauty, natural wonders and road trip experiences along the corridor and connectors of Hwy 25, Hwy 5, Hwy 97, and Wells Gray Park.  With a focus on sustainable travel, freshwater experiences are now more accessible than ever with EV road trip itineraries that include practical tips such as charging station locations, charging etiquette, and places to stay along the way.

As well as:

Sector projects include:

BC Ale Tail

The BC Ale Trail’s immersive self-guided experiences for foodies, adventurers, and nature lovers provides beer enthusiasts with over 225 breweries to discover across the province in all seasons. A visit to the BC Ale Tail website provides travellers with information on different regions, food and beverage offers, and experiences, as well as a link to download the BC Ale Trail mobile app, which highlights partner liquor stores, tap houses, sip & stays, tours, Visitor Centres, attractions, and more.

Fishing BC

The Fishing BC marketing initiative brings together the fresh and saltwater fishing sectors under one provincial collaborative marketing effort to get more anglers fishing in BC. A visit to the Fishing BC website takes travellers through a broad range of year-round fishing experiences destinations across BC. They have raised awareness of fishing opportunities for people with mobility challenges, and this year, the sector will also create visitor education marketing campaigns that promote safe, respectful, and sustainable use of resources, including boat and river safety.

As well as:

A notable example related to sustainable tourism:

Don’t Love it to Death

Now in its second year, Don’t Love it to Death has become a leader in visitor education marketing. Through social ads, videos, ambassador partnerships, community installations, and more, it aims to educate residents and visitors in the Sea-to-Sky corridor to be mindful of the impact they can have, providing tips and tongue-in-cheek calls to action for responsible outdoor recreation. The Co-op initiative is led by Tourism Whistler, with partners Tourism Squamish, Vancouver’s North Shore Tourism Association, Discover Surrey, Sunshine Coast Tourism, Tourism Abbotsford, Tourism Burnaby, Tourism Pemberton, Tourism Hope, Cascades & Canyons, and Tourism Harrison River Valley.

For more information, see the Destination BC announcement.

 
 
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Emergency Preparedness Week Resources (May 5-11, 2024)

Emergency Preparedness Week is May 5 to 11 in 2024, and is a great time to learn about getting prepared for emergencies, such as reviewing the updated resources from the Province of BC and Destination BC.

 

May 5-11, 2024 is Emergency Preparedness Week in BC, and it's a great time for individuals and businesses to learn about getting prepared for emergencies.

The Province has a wealth of resources available including;

  • Using technology in emergency management

  • Knowing the hazards in your community, using the PreparedBC Hazard Map

  • How to make an emergency plan

Throughout the week, Destination BC will be highlighting the Tourism Emergency Management Committee's (TEMC) work, messaging and resources through their newsletter, website, and LinkedIn, under the slogan “Prepare and Share”.

Here are a couple of examples:

Also to note, as part of Emergency Preparedness Week, an emergency alert test will be issued to cellphones, television and radio at 10:55 am (PT) on Wednesday, May 8.

The test alert will go to all compatible cellphones, and will interrupt radio and television broadcasts. This test will assess the system’s readiness for an actual emergency and identify any required adjustments.

Learn more and access more provincial resources

 
 
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BC Hotel Association Announces Launch of Emergency Management Central Booking Portal

The BC Hotel Association (BCHA) in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, and the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, has announced the development of the Emergency Management Central Booking Portal. This portal will enhance the booking efficiency for Emergency Support Services (ESS) evacuee support in B.C.

 

The BC Hotel Association (BCHA), in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, and the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, has announced the development of the Emergency Management Central Booking Portal. 

The reservation system aims to accelerate the process of sheltering evacuees by enhancing the coordinating and booking efficiencies for Emergency Support Services (ESS) evacuee support in B.C. for the year 2024. 

The pilot reservation system will go live in three host communities, Kamloops, Kelowna, and Prince George, in June 2024. The system will provide live availability for accommodations while simultaneously tracking evacuee placements.

Learn More

 
 
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Commit to Workplace Safety for National Safety & Health Week

May 6 to 11 is National Safety & Health Week. Create a safe and strong workplace by accessing free resources and training from go2HR.

 

May 6 to 11 is National Safety & Health Week. Employers can gear up for this week-long event by accessing the free resources from go2HR.  

Health & safety training promotes a positive safety culture that results in the reduction rate and duration of injuries, improves employee morale, and attracts and retains employees. 

Read more

 
 
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Destination Events Support Fund by Tourism Kamloops

Tourism Kamloops has recently announced a new RFP funding opportunity, the Destination Events Support Fund. They are seeking proposals from businesses and organizations who want to develop annual destination events in Kamloops between October and April.

 

Tourism Kamloops has recently announced a new RFP funding opportunity, the Destination Events Support Fund. This was developed because Tourism Kamloops is committed to elevating Kamloops as an attractive, year-round destination by investing in strategies that focus on off-peak visitation. They are seeking proposals from businesses and organizations who want to develop annual destination events in Kamloops between October and April.

Program Goals:

- Generate incremental visitation and overnight stays in October, November, December, January, February, March & April.

- Develop the destination in off-peak months by creating events that enhance perception, increase awareness, and stimulate advocacy for Kamloops in key markets (social media & word-of-mouth)

- Enhance resident sentiment

- Increase net promoter score

Find out if you qualify for the funding by visiting TourismKamloops.com /Event-Support-Fund.

 
 
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Pacific Coastal Airlines Expands Service Between Vancouver and Penticton for Spring and Summer 2024

We are thrilled that Pacific Coastal Airlines has expanded their flight services between Vancouver International Airport South Terminal (YVR) and Penticton Regional Airport (YYF) for the upcoming Spring and Summer seasons.

 

We are thrilled that Pacific Coastal Airlines has expanded their flight services between Vancouver International Airport South Terminal (YVR) and Penticton Regional Airport (YYF) for the upcoming Spring and Summer seasons.

From April 28 through June 22, 2024, travellers can enjoy increased connectivity with two daily flights operated by the reliable Saab 340B aircraft, accommodating up to 34 passengers.

From June 23 to September 7, 2024, Pacific Coastal Airlines will further expand its services to three flights on Sundays, Mondays, and Fridays, and select Wednesdays, as well as maintain two flights on Tuesdays and Thursdays, all operated by the Saab 340B aircraft. Additionally, a Saturday service will be provided using the Beechcraft 1900, accommodating up to 19 passengers, offering an up to 1,126 seat increase overall each week.

These flights will be key in providing travellers with convenience and flexibility when planning their journeys and demonstrate Pacific Coastal Airline’s commitment to making the Thompson Okanagan more accessible to air travellers.

To celebrate the expansion of flights to and from Penticton, Pacific Coastal Airlines is offering a special promotion. Passengers can enjoy a 20% discount on bookings using the promo code: YYF20 Further details regarding the promotion can be found on the Pacific Coastal Airlines website.

Learn more about these new flights at PacificCoastal.com.

 
 
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Securing Small Business Rebate Now Open (until funds are expended, or January 2025)

Small companies can get rebates for eligible commercial property crime and vandalism repairs or to implement eligible preventative measures and covers expenses incurred between January 2023 to December 30, 2024.

Learn more and apply →

 

Recognizing the increased costs to businesses due to property crime and vandalism in rural and urban communities across the province, the Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation is sending a reminder that its $10.5 million Securing Small Business Rebate Program, is open, and will run through to January 2025 (or until funds are expended).

The Program will provide small businesses with funds for eligible commercial property crime and vandalism repairs, or to implement eligible preventative measures and covers expenses incurred between January 2023 to December 30, 2024. The BC Chamber of Commerce will administer the rebate program.

Learn more and apply →

 
 
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