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Tourism growth program.
The Tourism Growth Program (TGP) is a key element of the new Federal Tourism Growth Strategy , which builds on Canada's inherent strengths and unique qualities while using a whole-of-government approach to realize the full potential of the tourism industry.
With $108 million in federal funding, the TGP will be delivered by Canada's regional development agencies over three years, starting in 2023–24. The program will support Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, small and medium-sized businesses and not-for-profit organizations in developing local, community-level tourism products and experiences to help more domestic and international visitors discover all that Canada has to offer.
The Government of Canada's seven regional development agencies will deliver this program, given that their mandate is to promote regional economic development.
The TGP will fund projects that provide added value to existing activities in the tourism industry and focus on business and economic growth. Indigenous tourism is a priority under the TGP, and approximately 15% of TGP funding will support Indigenous-led tourism initiatives.
The TGP will help leverage tourism opportunities in communities, including those that are rural and remote. The program also complements support for the tourism industry provided through other federal, provincial and territorial programs.
To find out more, visit your regional development agency's web page
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Government of Canada Launches Tourism Growth Program
As part of its ambitious Federal Tourism Growth Strategy , the Government of Canada has launched the new Tourism Growth Program (TGP) , which allocates $108 million in funding for eligible communities, businesses, and not-for-profit organizations.
In BC, the program will be managed by the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan). Through this federal program, $14 million is being invested in BC to help small and medium-sized businesses, not-for-profit organizations, and communities, including Indigenous communities, develop local tourism attractions and experiences that make Canada a destination of choice.
PacifiCan will partner with small- and medium-sized tourism businesses and organizations that are growing and have ambitious plans for the future. In particular, the Tourism Growth Program in BC will support projects that align with existing tourism strategies and create lasting impact in communities across the province.
Eligible businesses and not-for-profit organizations can apply for up to $250,000; this will be interest-free repayable funding for businesses, while for not-for-profit organizations, it will be non-repayable.
Project activities must include at least one of the following priority areas:
- Support active tourism.
- Increase tourism benefits for communities.
- Support Indigenous tourism industry.
- Support economic, environmental, and cultural sustainability.
- Extend the tourism season.
- Complement support provided through provincial programs.
Additional details regarding the program, funding, priority areas and eligible project activities, application requirements, and more can be found on the PacifiCan website . Applications are open now and can be submitted through the same website. The application submission deadline is noon (PST) on February 20, 2024. All project activities and costs must be completed by March 31, 2026.
Information sessions about the Tourism Growth Program are being held virtually and in-person on the following dates:
- Virtual session for tourism businesses | December 6, 2023 | 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. PST
- Virtual session for non-profit organizations/governments | December 6, 2023 | 3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. PST
- In-person session in Kelowna | December 7, 2023 | 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. PST | Email PacifiCan Southern Interior at [email protected] to register.
For additional Tourism Growth Program information, contact PacifiCan at (604) 666-6256 or 1-888-338-9378 (toll-free), or [email protected] .
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Tourism Kelowna would like to thank Westbank First Nation and Okanagan Indian Band for the privilege to live, work, and play on the tm̓xʷúlaʔxʷ (land), that is the unceded and traditional territory of syilx Okanagan peoples, the original stewards of these lands and to whom we give thanks to as our hosts
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B.C. communities benefit from investments to enhance tourism experiences
From: Pacific Economic Development Canada
News release
Today, Patrick Weiler, Member of Parliament for West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky Country, announced an investment of $860,000 for two projects through the Tourism Relief Fund (TRF).
The Government of Canada is making investments in tourism across British Columbia to attract new visitors and stimulate local economies
October 13, 2023 – West Vancouver, British Columbia – PacifiCan
Safe and inclusive public spaces and dynamic tourism experiences are key to vibrant communities. They bring together people of all ages and abilities, in turn supporting businesses and boosting economic vitality.
Today, Patrick Weiler, Member of Parliament for West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky Country, announced an investment of $860,000 for two projects through the Tourism Relief Fund (TRF). The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan).
Funding of $500,000 is being provided to the Aboriginal Tourism Association of British Columbia to help Indigenous Tourism BC develop their “Invest in Iconic” tourism strategy with Destination BC to grow the Indigenous tourism sector in British Columbia.
Funding of $360,000 is being provided to the BC Parks Foundation to develop an app for self-guided tours in BC parks. The app will allow visitors to book interpretive experiences and connect directly with park-related businesses.
Upgrading infrastructure, enhancing tourism experiences, and building new public assets attracts new visitors and means people across British Columbia have better access to recreational programs and facilities. The two projects announced today are growing economic opportunities, creating jobs, and improving community wellbeing.
“These investments demonstrate how the Government of Canada is helping to boost economic development in communities across British Columbia. Investing in tourism experiences brings communities together and will ensure that British Columbia thrives well into the future.” - The Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan)
“Canada is a world-class destination that showcases unique experiences for visitors, and which, when done thoughtfully, contributes greatly to well being of diverse communities across Canada. These investments demonstrate our Government's commitment to BC's tourism industry." - Patrick Weiler, Member of Parliament for West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky Country.
“Discoverparks.ca and 25 Weeks of Adventure are about people enjoying the health benefits and wonders of parks while being safe and respectful. Educating and connecting visitors to local places, people and stories helps keep places clean and respects the values that Indigenous people and British Columbians share.” - Andrew Day, CEO, BC Parks Foundation
Quick facts
PacifiCan is the federal economic development agency dedicated to British Columbians. PacifiCan works with partners who are building innovative businesses, creating quality jobs, and supporting inclusive growth throughout British Columbia.
In 2022, PacifiCan opened new offices in Victoria, Campbell River, Kelowna, Cranbrook, Prince George, Prince Rupert and Fort St John, serving businesses and communities across the province.
The Tourism Relief Fund provided $500 million over two years to help tourism businesses and organizations adapt their operations to meet public health requirements, while investing in products and services to facilitate future growth.
Associated links
- Tourism Relief Fund
Haley Hodgson Senior Communications Advisor Office of the Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister Responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada [email protected]
Media Relations PacifiCan [email protected]
Stay connected
Follow PacifiCan on Twitter and LinkedIn Toll-Free Number: 1-888-338-9378 TTY (telecommunications device for the hearing impaired): 1-877-303-3388
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Eleven new destination and tourism infrastructure developments are underway in the Vancouver, Coast & Mountains tourism region with support from the Province.
“We know recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic for businesses and people in the tourism sector are critically important. This fund creates new tourism infrastructure, which will help the sector recover, create local jobs and spur economic development,” said Melanie Mark, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. “Building on the calls to action from the sector, this fund invests in initiatives that link communities together and encourages visitors to spend time at several destinations within a region.”
Destination BC, representing the Vancouver, Coast & Mountains tourism region, in partnership with community destination management organizations, local and regional governments, First Nations, non-profits and other partners have worked together to identify initiatives that will enhance the region’s tourism amenities and experiences.
Initiatives underway in the Vancouver, Coast & Mountains tourism region include developing public outdoor instalments in the Metro Vancouver area to animate gathering spaces, investing in the Experience the Fraser project, and developing a self-guided journey to Pemberton’s, Lillooet’s and the Bridge River Valley’s key agri-tourism attractions.
Examples in other parts of the province include improvement of trail systems throughout a region for hiking, Nordic skiing or mountain biking, self-guided tour signage to highlight agri-tourism areas and a series of Indigenous landmarks throughout a region. The Province has provided $2.1 million toward these projects.
“Intentional destination development planning in the Vancouver, Coast and Mountains region brings together diverse tourism partners to strengthen the hearts of our communities and create compelling experiences for visitors,” said Jody Young, manager, Vancouver, Coast & Mountains region for Destination BC. “When we work together to invest in experiential infrastructure projects that benefit numerous communities in the region, the result is not only economic return, but a stronger connection between people and the places they share.”
As part of StrongerBC: BC’s Economic Recovery Plan, the province’s six tourism regions have received a total of $13.6 million to create employment opportunities, attract new businesses and increase economic diversification within communities.
The Targeted Regional Tourism Initiative is one of three infrastructure investment programs for tourism as part of StrongerBC, including the Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure program, Destination Development and the Tourism Dependent Communities Initiative. The approved projects must be completed by March 2023.
Brenda Bailey, MLA for Vancouver-False Creek –
“Tourism is such an important industry for people and businesses across Greater Vancouver. While the pandemic has forced many to put their travel plans on hold, with this funding, we will be in an even better position to welcome visitors back after the pandemic. In addition to benefiting our neighbourhoods and creating local jobs, these regional initiatives, such as new outdoor art installations in public gathering spaces around Metro Vancouver, will give people more reasons to explore our backyard and see more of what the area has to offer.”
Allison Colthorp, executive director, Tourism Chilliwack –
“This financial investment from the Province will have a significant impact on the continued development of the ‘Experience the Fraser’ project. This project was formed as a partnership between the regional districts, municipalities and First Nations along the Fraser River as a means to strengthen connections between communities, residents and visitors. We look forward to working in collaboration with our partners to move this great project forward.”
Learn More:
For a backgrounder listing approved projects and costs, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/TRTD_Master_List_Initiatives_May2021.pdf
For more information on StrongerBC, visit: https://strongerbc.gov.bc.ca/
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The B.C. Public Service acknowledges the territories of First Nations around B.C. and is grateful to carry out our work on these lands. We acknowledge the rights, interests, priorities, and concerns of all Indigenous Peoples - First Nations, Métis, and Inuit - respecting and acknowledging their distinct cultures, histories, rights, laws, and governments.
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Tourism Growth Program in British Columbia
The Government of Canada’s Tourism Growth Program (TGP) aims to help small and medium-sized businesses, tourism organizations, and local communities to grow and develop tourism products and experiences that position Canada as a destination of choice.
Tourism drives economic development and diversification in many Canadian regions and communities.
What is the Tourism Growth Program?
Delivered by Canada’s regional development agencies, including PacifiCan , the $108 million TGP provides regionally tailored funding over three years to support communities, businesses and not-for-profit organizations in growing and developing local tourism projects and events.
The TGP contributes to the Federal Tourism Growth Strategy , which charts a course for long-term growth, investment, and stability in Canada’s tourism sector, from coast to coast to coast. The program also complements provincial/territorial programs and other federal support for the tourism sector.a
PROGRAM PRIORITIES
Project activities must include at least one of the following priority areas (in no order of preference):
- Support active tourism – projects that attract domestic and international visitors to participate in outdoor recreational experiences. This also includes improvements to make active tourism inclusive and accessible.
- Increase tourism benefits for communities – projects that increase visitors to smaller communities and rural areas, thereby extending the benefits of tourism in B.C.
- Support Indigenous tourism industry – projects that are either Indigenous-owned or led that improve or increase Indigenous tourism experiences, which is one of the fastest growing international segments in B.C.’s tourism market.
- Support economic, environmental and cultural sustainability – projects that support economic, environmental and culturally sustainability.
- Extend the tourism season – projects that support the development and delivery of shoulder season products.
- Complement support provided through provincial programs – projects that align with efforts across the federal government and complement provincial, regional and local programs and initiatives.
AVAILABLE FUNDING
Eligible businesses can apply for interest-free repayable funding of up to $250,000 to support the growth of tourism operations. Preference will be given to projects seeking 50% or less funding from PacifiCan. The stacking limit (from other government sources) cannot generally exceed 50% of eligible capital costs and 75% for other eligible costs.
Eligible not-for-profit organizations can apply for non-repayable funding of up to $250,000 to support the growth of the tourism industry. Preference will be given to projects seeking 65% or less in funding from PacifiCan. The stacking limit may be up to 90% of eligible costs.
All non-PacifiCan sources of funding must be confirmed at time of application and start date of the project.
PacifiCan is looking to support projects that have a viable plan to produce strong economic outcomes in the tourism sector . Applicants must quantify, substantiate and later report on the following expected results that are applicable:
- Number of communities supported
- Number of project partners
- Number of jobs created
- Number of jobs maintained
- Revenue growth ($)
- Number of entities supported
- Number of visitors
HOW TO APPLY?
- The Tourism Growth Program will be accepting application from November 20, 2023 at 9:00 AM PST until February 20, 2024 at noon (PST).
- Thoroughly review the Applicant Guide before submitting. We strongly recommend that you download or bookmark the guide now for reference while completing application form.
- Access Application Portal to create application.
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Destination BC, a provincial Crown corporation, leads the marketing of British Columbia as a tourist destination and promotes the development and growth of the provincial tourism industry.
Destination BC is focused on attracting overnight visitors to the province, by promoting our Super, Natural British Columbia® brand to the world, and increasing tourism revenues by supporting industry in the development and delivery of remarkable experiences.
We work collaboratively with industry, regional, community, and Indigenous partners.
In late February 2023, Destination BC launched a new 2023-2025 corporate strategy, which cascades from the Provincial Strategic Framework for Tourism and is designed to deliver strong, sustainable growth. It outlines our new path for success and provides clarity about the choices we will make over the next three years, and beyond. The strategy outlines our intention to focus on the following levers, to improve BC’s competitiveness and improve the quality of life for people living in British Columbia through tourism over the long term.
• Compelling Reasons to Explore BC • A Globally Competitive Tourism Ecosystem • Respectful Growth of Indigenous Tourism
Learn more about the 2023-2025 corporate strategy, here .
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Destination British Columbia acknowledges with gratitude the xʷməθkʷəy̓ əm (Musqueam Indian Band), Sḵwx̱ wu7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation), and səlilwətaɬ (Tseleil-Waututh Nation) on whose shared territories we operate our main office.
We respectfully recognise that we carry out our work on the territories of Indigenous Peoples throughout BC. We honour our ongoing and developing relationships with First Nations (status and non-status), Inuit, and Métis Peoples. We are on a path of learning and are committed to working together.
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Contact information
Please send your questions and service requests to BC Stats here .
Mail to: BC Stats, Box 9410 Stn Prov Govt, Victoria BC V8W 9V1
Location: 563 Superior Street, Victoria BC
The B.C. Public Service acknowledges the territories of First Nations around B.C. and is grateful to carry out our work on these lands. We acknowledge the rights, interests, priorities, and concerns of all Indigenous Peoples - First Nations, Métis, and Inuit - respecting and acknowledging their distinct cultures, histories, rights, laws, and governments.
IMAGES
COMMENTS
There were 16,910 tourism businesses in operation. Tourism generated $18.5 billion in revenue. Tourism contributed $2.2 billion in provincial taxes. Tourism contributed $7.2 billion (2.4%) to the provincial economy, as measured through gross domestic product (in 2017 constant dollars).
For additional Tourism Growth Program information, contact us directly at 604-666-6256 or 1-888-338-9378 (toll-free) or at [email protected]. Mailing address: 1300-300 West Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6B 6B4.
British Columbia's tourism industry creates opportunities for people to have a better life through community enhancement, sustainable growth and climate action. Stewardship of the industry is rooted in principles of diversity, inclusivity, reconciliation and partnerships. Our goal is to rebuild tourism revenues to 2019 levels by 2024.
The specific share of GDP accounted for by tourism varies from year to year, mainly due to developments affecting other sectors of the B.C. economy (e.g., commodity price trends, residential investment and real estate activity, and the pace of population growth). Destination BC, "2020 Value of Tourism: A Snapshot of Tourism in BC."
2022-2023 Summary of Engagements Across British Columbia . Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. February 2023. Cariboo Chilcotin Coast: Bella Coola /Jesaja Class . ... significant limiting factor to the sustainable growth of B.C.'s tourism industry. Key insights from
The $108 million Tourism Growth Program was announced in Budget 2023. The Tourism Growth Program complements supports for the tourism industry provided through other federal, provincial and territorial programs. In 2023, Canada welcomed 12.6 million international tourists in the first eight months, a 54% increase from the same period in 2022. 1.
The Tourism Growth Program is a key component of the Federal Tourism Growth Strategy, which charts a course for long-term growth, investment, and stability in Canada's tourism industry. The $108 million Tourism Growth Program was announced in Budget 2023. In 2023, Canada welcomed 10.2 million international tourists in the first seven months ...
B.C. has launched a new three-year roadmap for rebuilding and revitalizing tourism, creating jobs and opportunities for people and communities in every part of the province. "B.C. is a world-class destination, and we know the pandemic has hurt tourism," said Melanie Mark, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport.
British Columbia has unprecedented opportunities for tourism growth. Tourism is already one of the most significant drivers of economic success in BC, growing faster than the provincial economy as a whole as it generates a continuous stream of revenue, employment, social, cultural and environmental benefits.
the pandemic, tourism was one of the fastest growing industries in the world, and BC was no exception. Here are some insights into BC's tourism industry, pre-COVID 19. Tourism - By the Numbers • British Columbia's tourism industry generated revenue of $22.3 billion in 2019, an increase of 5.6% over 2018, and a 67.8% increase from 2009.
BC economy, as measured through GDP (in 2012 constant dollars). This represents 3.4% growth over 2018, and 41.8% growth since 2009. In 2019, tourism contributed more to GDP than any other primary resource industry. gdp by primary resource industry tourism wages and salaries share of tourism employment by service area The tourism industry paid
The Tourism Growth Program (TGP) is a key element of the new Federal Tourism Growth Strategy, which builds on Canada's inherent strengths and unique qualities while using a whole-of-government approach to realize the full potential of the tourism industry.. With $108 million in federal funding, the TGP will be delivered by Canada's regional development agencies over three years, starting in ...
Overall tourism spending continued to surpass pre-pandemic levels in Q3 2023, reaching 103% of Q3 2019 spending in unadjusted-inflation terms. Most notably, tourism spending by international visitors reached 105% of 2019 levels in Q3 2023, surpassing 2019 levels for the first time. Domestic tourism spending recovery was close behind, at 103% of ...
The Tourism Task Force (the task force) was appointed on Sept. 18, 2020 by the B.C. Government to make recommendations to support a strong recovery from COVID-19, enhance the industry's long-term competitiveness, and to review the province's Strategic Framework for Tourism in British Columbia. This
The tourism industry contributed $9 billion to the B.C. economy, as measured through gross domestic product (GDP) in 2017. This is an increase of 6.7% over 2016, compared to the GDP of B.C.'s economy as a whole, which grew by 4.0% in 2017. These statistics show that B.C.'s tourism industry added the largest value to the provincial economy ...
As part of its ambitious Federal Tourism Growth Strategy, the Government of Canada has launched the new Tourism Growth Program (TGP), which allocates $108 million in funding for eligible communities, businesses, and not-for-profit organizations. In BC, the program will be managed by the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan). Through this federal program, $14 million is ...
The Government of Canada is making investments in tourism across British Columbia to attract new visitors and stimulate local economies. October 13, 2023 - West Vancouver, British Columbia - PacifiCan. Safe and inclusive public spaces and dynamic tourism experiences are key to vibrant communities. They bring together people of all ages and ...
As part of StrongerBC: BC's Economic Recovery Plan, the province's six tourism regions have received a total of $13.6 million to create employment opportunities, attract new businesses and increase economic diversification within communities. The Targeted Regional Tourism Initiative is one of three infrastructure investment programs for ...
Strategic Framework for Tourism in B.C. Tourism has — and will always be — integral to who we are as British Columbians. A thriving tourism industry contributes to an inclusive economy and provides a pathway for jobs, opportunity, and entrepreneurship in our province. The Strategic Framework for Tourism 2022-2024: A Plan for Recovery and ...
International Visitor Arrivals - April 2023. May 2023. Download Report Size: 131 kb. Tourism indicators for Canada, the six regions of BC, and city-level data including statistics that lend to visitor arrivals and the value of tourism.
The Government of Canada's Tourism Growth Program (TGP) aims to help small and medium-sized businesses, tourism organizations, and local communities to grow and develop tourism products and experiences that position Canada as a destination of choice. Tourism drives economic development and diversification in many Canadian regions and communities.
Destination BC, a provincial Crown corporation, leads the marketing of British Columbia as a tourist destination and promotes the development and growth of the provincial tourism industry. Destination BC is focused on attracting overnight visitors to the province, by promoting our Super, Natural British Columbia® brand to the world, and ...
BC Stats Data. Annual Tourism Indicators, including GDP and Employment (XLSX) Monthly Tourism Indicators (XLSX) Room Revenues and Property Counts. January 2010 to December 2023 (XLSX) The following data are for reference purposes only and are based on older methodologies and databases and are not consistent with the latest figures.