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Tourism Events Program funding available
The B.C. government today announced it is investing as much as $5 million to support community events between October 2022 and September 2023.
The Tourism Events Program aims to strengthen B.C.’s reputation as a top tourism destination and increase tourism benefits to communities.
Applications to the Tourism Events Program will be accepted starting April 27, until May 31. While historically an annual program, it was paused in spring 2020 due to pandemic restrictions and guidelines limiting gatherings.
“I am thrilled to see festivals, live music and sporting events ramping up in B.C.,” said Melanie Mark, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. “It’s been a long two years for everyone, and I know that our artists, performers and athletes can’t wait to showcase their talents once again. The Tourism Events Program helps promote these events so they get the local, national and international attention needed to attract visitors to communities and be a magnet for tourism throughout the province.”
The program supports events that aim to drive visitation from outside local areas, align with key tourism strategies and broader government priorities, demonstrate financial sustainability, and support diversity and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.
In 2019, the last year before the pandemic, government provided $3.9 million to 70 events.
Tourism is an important economic driver for B.C., generating more than $7.1 billion in revenue in 2020 despite pandemic effects on the tourism sector.
Lead image: The 2019 Sam Steele Days parade in downtown Cranbrook. e-KNOW file photo
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