November 22, 2024

CEO MESSAGE

In Q4 of 2020, I served on the Tourism Task Force (TTF) which was appointed by the Province of BC to make recommendations to support a strong recovery from the pandemic, enhance the industry’s long-term competitiveness, and to review the province’s Strategic Framework for Tourism.

Each of the 11 individuals on the TTF brought meaningful perspectives to the table leading to a final report which outlined several actions that needed to be taken to advance the long-term sustainability of BC’s visitor economy.

While I can’t recall all of the discussions at each meeting, I’ve never forgotten the words, “stick to the Terms of Reference” that one colleague repeated every time we convened. It helped that he spoke with a charming, yet authoritative Irish accent that seemed to make the words ring and resonate even more. Clearly he was adamant about staying the course on what the TTF was assigned to do to avoid so-called scope creep that occasionally infiltrates working groups like the TTF if not for the intervention of the chair and committee members that hold each other accountable.

In my observation, extending the boundaries of responsibility inadvertently happens when boards of directors, corporate management, government, NGOs and other entities mix up noble intentions with the actual task at hand. Although it’s not an issue within TIABC, we’ve nonetheless taken additional steps to ensure our board understands its role and obligations as volunteer directors of a not-for-profit business association.

As part of our strategic planning process this year, we created a Governance Manual that focuses on a board Code of Ethics and addresses policies such as conflict of interest, fiduciary duties, duty of care and loyalty, use of confidential information, staff and director evaluation, operations, and of course, Terms of Reference for board members and committee chairs. Admittedly it’s not exciting stuff for most folks but still necessary to ensure that TIABC is positioned now and in future to deliver on its mandate no matter who’s overseeing the organization.

At our upcoming annual general meeting (virtual – December 10), we’ll share a few more details on our governance work, as well as some important bylaw changes for consideration by TIABC members. Most significant among them is a limit on how many years a director can serve. Without detailing potential scenarios, under the present system, a director could conceivably serve as many as a dozen years, which, in the view of the board, is far too long and doesn’t allow for healthy turnover and new engagement by others that wish to contribute.

We look forward to any questions or discussion on the bylaws and other matters at our AGM in less than three weeks. Also on the agenda this year is a voting process by members to elect two new directors from a list of four very talented and capable tourism industry professionals representing the DMO category. Please ensure that you are registered, and more importantly, commit to attending the (virtual) AGM so that we can share details of TIABC’s advocacy activities over the past year.

Once in a while I reflect on my experience with the Tourism Task Force and acknowledge the fact that even though we had plenty of intense discussions that could have divided the group, it was the steady leadership of the chair, the valuable contribution of each individual, and the wise words of my Irish–Canadian colleague to ‘stick to the Terms of Reference’ (that echo in my head every time I serve on a committee) that ultimately led to a positive outcome with several recommendations that the province acted upon.

NOTE – Allow me to take the opportunity to thank Minister Lana Popham for her valuable contribution to our industry in the two years she led the tourism portfolio. Minister Popham was engaged, responsive and passionate about the tourism sector and will continue to be an advocate on our behalf in her new role overseeing agriculture and food. I'd also like to congratulate Hon. Spencer Chandra Herbert on his new role as Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture & Sport. I’ve known Minister Chandra Herbert for many years, dating back to his days as opposition tourism critic. I will be meeting with him for the first time in his new capacity on Wednesday. In the meantime, TIABC will also be reaching out to other new cabinet ministers that touch the tourism file in the weeks ahead. I’ll be sure to report back on my discussions.

Walt Judas

CEO, TIABC

Premier’s New Cabinet Announced

A new cabinet under the leadership of Premier David Eby was sworn-in on November 18th at Government House and includes a new Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture & Sport - Spencer Chandra Herbert.

As stated in the official government release, "the new cabinet’s top priorities will be bringing down costs for families, strengthening health care, making communities safer and growing the economy so everyone feels the benefits. Foundational to this work is a commitment to build partnerships with Indigenous communities and take action on climate change."

There will be more women than men in cabinet. Key portfolios are also filled by people with relevant professional and community experience. Additionally, there will be separate ministries for Energy and Climate Solutions and Mining and Critical Minerals.

The new cabinet includes 23 ministers and four ministers of state, and is supported in its work by 14 parliamentary secretaries. Mandate letters outlining specific goals and responsibilities have yet to be distributed to new ministers but are expected soon.

Read the official announcement from government and learn more about the complete cabinet HERE.

New International Student Program Regulations Take Effect

Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, confirmed that new regulations impacting the International Student Program have now taken effect, including the change to the number of hours international students may work off campus that was proposed earlier this year. With this change, eligible students can now work up to 24 hours per week off campus while their classes are in session.

Moving forward, international students must apply and be approved for a new study permit before changing learning institutions.

Quick Facts:

• To work off campus without a work permit, international students must be studying full-time in a post-secondary academic, vocational or professional training program, or a vocational training program at the secondary level offered in Quebec, that lasts at least six months and leads to a degree, diploma or certificate. 

• International students who are eligible to work off campus may work full-time during breaks in their academic calendar, such as the summer break between school years or the winter break between semesters.

Industry Leaders Respond to IRCC Policy Changes Impacting International Students and Newcomers

TIABC was one of the industry partners supporting the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) in a letter to Hon. Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, addressing recent IRCC policy changes related to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program and Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan (see above).

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC) announced a detailed list of 966 Canadian academic programmes that would provide post-graduation work permit (PGWP)- eligibility to international students. Notably, this announcement excluded all international students studying at community colleges and those enrolled in public colleges and polytechnics in programs related to hospitality, tourism and culinary education.

The letter states how this change has significant implications for the tourism and hospitality industries and stressed it is critical that tourism programs at public colleges and polytechnics be included in the list of eligible PGWP programs to mitigate these challenges and ensure a robust tourism workforce in the years to come.

The letter concludes by requesting government prioritize new strategic investments in the tourism workforce as part of the 2024 Fall Economic Statement and the 2025 Federal Budget and a request to meet to discuss these priorities.

Read the full letter to Minister Miller HERE.

OC and TIABC Sign Strategic Partnership

Okanagan College (OC) is building on its relationships with industry partners in the food, beverage and tourism sectors to enhance its programming, signing strategic partnership agreements with TIABC, the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), and Tourism HR Canada (THRC).

The agreements will align the tourism and hospitality curriculum at OC with industry standards and create opportunities for OC food, beverage and tourism students to connect with industry for Work Integrated Learning opportunities and eventual careers. OC will match its programming to meet Tourism HR Canada’s smart accreditation program while members of the organizations will provide guidance to OC through its program advisory committee.

"The Tourism Industry Association of BC is proud of its partnership with Okanagan College, which is doing exceptional work to educate and prepare students for a career in the BC tourism and hospitality sector. Being able to share industry knowledge and research to help inform curriculum will be a tremendous benefit to our members who are seeking graduates with the right combination of skills to work in their businesses. We firmly believe that Okanagan College is delivering on its vision and mandate to support BC communities and our broader visitor economy. TIABC looks forward to working with Okanagan College in the to accomplish our mutual goals." - Walt Judas, CEO, TIABC

Photo: Joe Baker (L), Dean OC School of Business and Walt Judas, CEO, TIABC

Read the official announcement and learn more about this strategic partnership HERE.

BCLCA Release Best Practice Guidelines for Campground Operators

The BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association (BCLCA) has released the Managing Extended Stays – Best Practices Guidelines for Campground Operators. The guidelines were prepared in response to a year’s worth of discussions with BCLCA members concerning “extended stays” at campgrounds and RV Parks. These discussions were about addressing an uptick in arbitration cases brought to the Residential Tenancy Branch by seasonal campers seeking to be tenants rather than licence to occupy guests.

The guidelines explain what a tenancy is; what a license to occupy is; and the implications of establishing a tenancy. The guidelines also include an FAQ section of commonly asked questions in layman’s terms and finish with three case studies of actual cases that ended up in court, with facts, arguments and the court’s determinations.

The guidelines publication is currently available only to BCLCA members in good standing. If you would like a copy of the guidelines, please contact jpenny@bclca.com.

ICYMI | CLIA Seeking Input from Vancouver Area Businesses

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has embarked on a refinement to how they collect and report economic impact. 

They have been working with the Vancouver Port on a port profile that includes a business-facing survey so they can better understand how cruise supports the local economy, and how dependent local businesses are on the cruise industry.

The research is designed to understand the views of local businesses regarding the importance of the cruise industry in Vancouver.

Your feedback is very important to help improve cruise services and facilities and CLIA would really appreciate your views.

Fall Intake for BC Tourism Climate Resiliency Initiative Now Open!

Eligible tourism businesses in BC can now apply for the fall intake of Project One under the BC Tourism Climate Resiliency Initiative (BCTCRI). This program offers one-on-one guidance from experienced advisors to develop a tailored sustainability and climate adaptation roadmap, including energy audits and sustainability certification recommendations, all at no cost.

With limited spots available on a first-come, first-served basis, we encourage early applications to secure your place. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your business's sustainability and climate resiliency - spaces are filling quickly!

Learn more and register HERE.

UVic Launches Micro-certificate in

Tourism Sustainability

This non-credit program delves into the fundamentals of greenhouse gas emissions reduction, climate change mitigation and adaptation within a tourism context, and applies global frameworks in learners’ own workplaces.

The program positions participants help to strengthen the resiliency of the tourism sector, conserve our natural environment and empower the industry to take the necessary steps for climate adaptation. Those interested in the program may be involved in middle management, operations, leadership teams, or as new employees who are interested in building sustainability competencies.

Scheduled as a 6-week online asynchronous intensive, the program is set to run from January 27 to March 10, 2025.

Learn more about the program and register HERE.

BC Ferries Adds Sailings to Meet High Demand

With Taylor Swift’s concert series, Canucks games, and other major events drawing large crowds to the Lower Mainland, BC Ferries is preparing for an exceptionally busy travel weekend from Thursday, December 5th to Monday, December 9th. Demand is expected to be especially high with the 60-year-old Queen of New Westminster out of service for repairs, reducing available fleet capacity. This makes early planning essential for all passengers.

To support travellers, BC Ferries has scheduled additional sailings on key routes. Terminals are expected to be extremely busy, so all travellers are encouraged to reserve early, consider off-peak travel times, or travel as foot passengers if possible. 

Learn more including recommended travel tips HERE.

BC's Ski Season Begins

Many BC ski resorts are opening up this weekend thanks to fresh snow brought down by recent fall storms. Big White Ski Resort is excited to announce opening day is today! (Nov 22nd) – and earlier than expected. They boast the first resort to open in Canada on all-natural snow and with a solid snow base with 96 cm of fresh powder in the alpine, the conditions are absolutely prime.

Vail Resorts have reported Blackcomb Mountain has opened for skiing starting one day ahead of schedule, and Whistler Mountain will open today. Also opening this weekend are Cypress Mountain, Powder King and Sun Peaks Resort.

Learn more about BC's ski resorts projected opening dates and conditions HERE.

Prince of Whales and North Island Kayak Launch Renewed Partnership with Sea Smart

Prince of Whales and North Island Kayak are excited to announce their renewed partnership with Sea Smart and pledge to match donations made up to this year’s Giving Tuesday, providing a dollar-for-dollar match of up to $30,000 CAD. This initiative seeks to galvanize support for Sea Smart's environmental education programs with Indigenous and vulnerable youth.

This sponsorship funds a week-long summer camp, two terms of after-school programs, and five school workshops, reaching up to 75 local Indigenous and vulnerable students. Staff engagement initiatives include a team-building session for Vancouver employees, reinforcing their commitment to ocean conservation and education. Sea Smart extends an invitation to individuals and organizations alike to participate in this matching opportunity. 

Read the announcement from Prince of Whales and learn more about the donation campaign HERE.

Hotel Association of Vancouver

The Hotel Association of Vancouver serves as the collective voice of hotels within the City of Vancouver and represents the interests of these businesses on a local, provincial and national level. Through collaborative activity and an engaged membership, their goal is to collectively address the wants and needs of Vancouver hotels.

Learn more about the Hotel Association of Vancouver HERE.

Would you like to be featured in our weekly Voice of Tourism newsletter, social channels or on our website? TIABC member testimonials provide visibility and exposure to the tourism industry and a wider audience for your business. Contact Deborah - deborah@tiabc.ca

Become a Member in 2024

Your Membership is Important to Us!

We strongly encourage you to consider membership or renew your membership with TIABC in 2024 to support our important advocacy efforts on behalf of the entire visitor economy.

TIABC continues to identify your concerns, raise your voice, champion your needs, and push for support and programs while encouraging policy changes at both the provincial and federal level.

Contact info@tiabc.ca for more information, visit our website HERE or the link below.

TIAC's Associate Program for TIABC Members

The Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) and the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) continue to offer TIABC members an opportunity to extend their membership. TIABC members in good standing can enrol in TIAC’s Associate Program FOR ONLY $25.

By visiting this link, you can become a TIAC Associate Member, enjoy access to a range of TIAC benefits and add your voice to National efforts.

Note: If you are already a TIAC associate member, you will receive a renewal notice before your anniversary date. If you are currently a full TIAC member, you already get enhanced advantages. You will continue to enjoy added benefits and savings over and above what is available to associate members, including the TIAC Member Advantage program at Rendez-vous Canada.

EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!

Early-bird registration is now open for the 2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference. Early-bird rates will be available until January 15, 2025.

Detailed programming including updates on keynote speakers, engaging sessions and networking opportunities will be released soon. Until then, we encourage you to visit the conference website for details on travel, accommodation and conference sponsorship opportunities.

Secure your spot today! This is a must attend event, and we look forward to seeing you in Vancouver next year!

Register Today! TIABC AGM

Please note the following information regarding the upcoming TIABC Annual General Meeting.

Date: Tuesday, December 10, 2024

Location: Virtual

Time: 9:00 am - 10:30 am (PST)

The meeting is called for the purposes of:

• To receive the financial statements of the Association for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023
• To approve the minutes of the November 9, 2023 Annual General Meeting
• To elect six (6) Directors 

Voting Authorization:

One individual at the AGM, who will have been granted authority to be the voting representative of the relevant member, will represent each TIABC member business, sector association or Destination Management/Marketing Organization (DMO). The member must be in good standing with the organization.

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Per: J.J. Belanger

Chair, Tourism Industry Association of BC

Learn more including how to register, review the Notice of Motions and nominees for the 2024-2026 TIABC Board and how to vote in advance by ballot in the following link.

6th Annual Spirit of Hospitality Lottery

Has Launched!

Last year, with the incredible support from our hospitality and tourism partners, we raised $34,000, and this year, we’re setting our sights on $60,000. We truly believe this goal is within reach, but we need the collective power of the entire hospitality community to make it happen.

This year's prizes are fantastic – including a stay at the St. Regis in Aspen, a Rocky Mountaineer rail tour, a Big White Ski Vacation, and a trip to Quebec City. These are sure to inspire people to participate, and with your help, we can spread the word and drive ticket sales.

• Lottery Closes: November 25
• Draw Date: November 26
• Next Early Bird Draw: November 12

Together, we can make a real difference. Please feel free to reach out if you need any additional information, and thank you so much for your continued support.

Learn more HERE, including how you can donate and how your business or organization can get involved!

Indigenous Protected and

Conserved Areas

BC First Nations have declared more than a dozen Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCA). In general, this means the Nations want to elevate their role in stewarding the land, water and air.

The specifics can vary widely. There is no established avenue for creating IPCAs and the recreation community's input and role in the process remains largely unknown. 

To help fill the information gaps, the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC has invited representatives from two IPCA initiatives to share their visions and answer questions in this webinar.

Date: November 26

Time: 1:00 pm (PST)

Learn more and register HERE.

Unlocking Business Potential with

Parks Canada

Gain insider knowledge and practical advice on securing business licensing and contracting opportunities with Parks Canada. This is a unique chance to access valuable insights to enhance your success with Parks Canada-administered sites.

What You’ll Learn:

During this session, you will learn directly from procurement and realty teams about the business licensing process for Parks Canada-administered sites. You’ll receive practical advice on navigating the administrative requirements and a clearer understanding of Parks Canada’s vetting process, including important ecological sensitivity and cultural resource protection considerations. Additionally, you’ll gain essential tips on bidding requirements and discover how to access contracting opportunities effectively.

Date: Wednesday, November 27

Time: 11:00 am - Noon (PST) - TIAC Members Only

Learn more and register HERE.

Professional Development Webinar for Women in Recreation, Tourism and Hospitality

WORTH Association is presenting a free, live webinar with Jillian Climie of The Thoughtful Co. designed to support women leaders with professional development tools. The session will focus on fixing the “broken rung” in workplace leadership and offer practical strategies for building meaningful connections, establishing effective mentorships, and leveraging sponsorship to advance careers.

Seats are limited, and the session will not be recorded, so this is a unique opportunity for participants to engage with Jillian directly.

Date: November 28

Time: 12:00 pm

Learn more and register HERE.

Annual Public Meeting

Save the date for Destination Canada’s Annual Public Meeting (APM), which will feature the official launch of their highly-anticipated Wealth & Wellbeing Index.

Date: Thursday, November 28

Time: 10:00 (PST) - Virtual

Learn more and register HERE.

Traveller Segmentation Program Launch

Destination Canada is inviting you to an 80-minute session to launch their new Traveller Segmentation Program. This is your chance to explore the program's groundbreaking benefits and gain a first look at the newly developed traveller segments. The session will also showcase the powerful features available through the Canadian Tourism Data Collective that make aligning our marketing, research, and destination development strategies across Canada easier and more effective than ever.

Session Details:

Date: December 9

Time: 9:30 - 10:50 am (PST)

This session will provide you with tools to better understand our travellers and help you drive greater impact in promoting your destination. A recording will be available for those unable to attend live.

Learn more and register HERE.

BC Chamber of Commerce | Annual Premier & Cabinet Luncheon

The BC Chamber of Commerce is delighted to welcome Premier David Eby, members of Cabinet and Parliamentary Secretaries to its annual Premier & Cabinet Luncheon, a flagship event that offers business leaders the opportunity to connect with the Executive Council​ of the provincial government.

Attracting over 200 guests from across the province, the event offers a coveted opportunity for leaders from private and not-for-profit sectors and First Nations to engage in deep dialogue with members of the Executive Council and Parliamentary Secretaries on issues that matter most in today's business climate.

Date: Tuesday, December 10

Time: 11.00am - 2.00pm (PST)

Location: The event will be held in downtown Vancouver and the venue will be shared with registrants 1-2 days in advance.

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

SFI 2024 Big Splash Raffle

The Sport Fishing Institute (SFI) is excited to announce the annual Big Splash Raffle has launched. Early Bird tickets are now available. Prize draw deadline comes quick!

• SFI Big Splash Raffle Sales Deadline: Midnight, Friday, December 27
• SFI Big Splash Raffle Draw: Saturday, December 28 at 12:00 pm

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

Vancouver Aquarium | Holiday Splash

There's no place like Vancouver Aquarium for the holidays! Soak up moments of holiday magic with more than 1 million twinkling lights, enchanting decor, a larger-than-life Jellyfish Snow Globe, and so much more.

No matter where your adventure leads—from daily Scuba Claus dives to a festive 4D experience—Vancouver Aquarium is flowing with holiday spirit.

To learn more about events at the Vancouver Aquarium, including Holiday Splash, visit HERE.

Parkinson Ready Program Coming

to Vancouver

The World Parkinson Coalition is bringing its award-winning “Parkinson Ready” program to Vancouver. As the fastest growing neurological disease on the planet, you are probably interacting with people with Parkinson’s regularly, do you know how to support them?

This FREE one-hour program is designed for professionals working on the front lines of the tourism and hospitality industry. Offered in-person, led by a locally based physical therapist and person with Parkinson’s, this program is designed to help people working in positions that interact with local citizens and tourists who may have Parkinson’s to:

1. Better understand Parkinson's disease, and
2. Increase their comfort level in working with and supporting people with Parkinson's

Dates: November 25 or 26

Location: Vancouver Convention Centre

This is an amazing opportunity to prepare to meet this growing community. Limited seating, so we strongly encourage registering for a seat.

Learn more HERE.

Read the press release fron the World Parkinson's Coalition HERE.

Save the Date - 2024 Policy Conference & Big Splash Gala

The Sport Fishing Institute of BC (SFI) will hold its annual Policy Conference. This year's theme is Selective and Sustainable. This is a highly anticipated forum where elected officials, public servants and those in the sport fishing industry can meet, share their perspectives on the issues facing the recreational fishery and discuss expectations for the coming seasons. As last year, SFI will be providing the Pacific Salmon Foundation a portion of the day to share details about programs and projects that are funded by revenues generated from sales of the Salmon Conservation stamp on your tidal waters licence.

Date: November 29

Location: Vancouver Convention Centre

Following the Conference is the Big Splash Gala and Fundraiser.

More information and ticket purchases are available HERE.

WinterFest 2024

WinterFest, the Royal BC Museum's outdoor multicultural holiday market, is back for another year.

Celebrating arts, culture and community, WinterFest brings together the best parts of the holiday season. Food, warm drinks and multicultural performances pair with local artists and artisans for a one-of-a-kind experience.

Dates: November 30 & December 1

Times: 10 am -5 pm 

Learn more HERE.

27th Annual CITAP+ Winter Function

You are cordially invited to the 27th CITAP+ Winter Function.

Date: Tuesday, December 3

Location: River Rock Casino Resort, Richmond

The event will be a full day in a familiar format, including morning educational sessions, the afternoon marketplace, and the dinner reception.

 Registration is now open! Early bird pricing is in effect until Friday, October 18 at 5pm PT. Sponsorship packages are available HERE. Please note that your 2024 CITAP+ membership must be in good standing in order to register for the Winter Function.

Tourism Congress 2024

Join the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) in beautiful Vancouver for an immersive conference experience that brings together tourism leaders, stakeholders, and innovators from across Canada and beyond. Get ready to share insights, explore new ideas, and celebrate our industry's resilience and creativity. We are thrilled the Tourism Congress is hitting the road this year.

Dates: December 3-5

Location: Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre

Learn more about Tourism Congress including group booking opportunities HERE.

GVHA Harbour Holiday Light Up

Get ready to experience the magic of the holidays at GVHA’s Harbour Holiday Light Up!

This festive evening, proudly supported by Ocean 98.5, will feature sparkling light displays that illuminate the harbour in holiday cheer.

Enjoy a cozy treat with 500 free hot chocolates and cookies decorated with a special orca design, and explore seasonal offerings from vendors and food trucks. Don’t miss this chance to welcome the holidays as we light up the harbour!

Dates: December 5

Time: 5pm - 7pm

Location: Inner Harbour, lower causeway and Ship Point pier

Learn more about the Holiday Light Up HERE.

Barkerville’s Olde-Fashioned Christmas

Barkerville Historic Town & Park is thrilled to announce the return of the beloved Olde-Fashioned Christmas event. This enchanting weekend promises festive cheer and delightful experiences for everyone.

Visitors can look forward to browsing a variety of unique gifts, handcrafted items, and seasonal treats that perfectly capture the holiday spirit.

Dates: December 14 & 15

Mark your calendars and join us in Barkerville for an unforgettable Olde-Fashioned Christmas celebration. Learn more HERE.

SOS Coalition Announces

"Communities Driving Change" Forum

With crime, violence and street disorder plaguing communities large and small across British Columbia, BC’s Save Our Streets coalition (SOS) will hold a day-long “Communities Driving Change” Forum.

Date: January 23, 2025

Location: Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue, Vancouver

The Forum will explore solutions to these issues with community and business leaders, subject experts and political leaders.

The Forum, will feature moderated panel discussions, keynote expert speakers, and opportunities for virtual community participation from around the province. Topics to include judicial reform and resources, policing, addictions and mental illnesses, and the role of housing as components of the solution.

Note: If you have registered for the previous date of September 12th, 2024 and the date doesn't work for yoru schedule, please reach out and your registration will be cancelled.

Read the official news release and learn more about the SOS initiative HERE.

Registration Now Open

The 8th Annual IMPACT Sustainable Tourism & Travel Summit will be held again in Victoria.

Day of Impact: January 26, 2025

Dates of Conference: January 27-29, 2025

Early-bird registration is now open. Visit HERE.

Save The Date | SPARK!

BC Liquor and Cannabis Conference

ABLE BC is excited to announce the return of SPARK! Join in on Wednesday, March 5, 2025 at the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre for BC's premier liquor and cannabis conference. 

Date: March 5, 2025

Location: Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre, Vancouver

The highly anticipated third annual SPARK conference returns revamped and revived with a focus on liquor primaries, private liquor stores, and now private cannabis stores!

Get pumped for a full day of advocacy updates, networking with like-minded business owners, and learning from industry experts in the liquor and cannabis fields. Stay tuned for more details, including registration, early bird pricing, sponsorship opportunities, and programming.

Learn more HERE.

Flourish 2025

Flourish is Vancouver Community College (VCC) Foundation's annual fundraising experience. It’s an opportunity to come together to support their students as they change their lives through the power of real learning and hands-on education.

Join in for an evening of food and wine, and help the community thrive.

Date: March 5, 2025

Time: 7pm - 10pm

Location: VCC Broadway Campus, 1120 E. 7th Ave., Vancouver

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

Mark Your Calendars — BCHA Summit

The 2025 BCHA Summit is returning to Vancouver!

Date: April 22-23, 2025

Location: Westin Bayshore, Vancouver. 

Stay tuned here for more information on the program, featured speakers, nominations for the Awards of Excellence, and soon-to-be announced registration details.

Visit the conference website and learn more HERE.

Save the Date | BC Chamber of Commerce AGM & Conference

Join us in Nanaimo to explore this vibrant urban centre found on the east side of beautiful Vancouver Island, located on the traditional territories of the Coast

Salish Peoples - Snuneymuxw, Snaw-naw-as, and Stz'uminus.

Date: June 3-5, 2025

Location: Vancouver Island Conference Centre, Nanaimo

More information and registration to be available soon!