September 20, 2024

CEO MESSAGE

A couple of years ago, we joined some friends for an afternoon of cycling on the Vancouver seawall followed by dinner at Granville Island and dessert on the rooftop deck of my buddy’s spectacular False Creek townhouse. All was perfect until I was suddenly overcome by a severe bout of vertigo. Having experienced it before, I knew I needed immediate medical attention.

Somehow I managed to make it to the car so my wife could drive me to Vancouver General Hospital (VGH) for an injection of Gravol to stop the violent spinning of my brain. While lying horizontal in the back seat trying not to move a muscle to control the symptoms, I became acutely aware of how bumpy every street was. It felt like we were on decommissioned backcountry logging roads. At one point I pleaded with my wife to steer clear of construction zones and large potholes even though I learned there weren’t any on our short trip to VGH.

Since that incident, I’ve taken notice of the countless roads and highways in desperate need of repair no matter where in the province. And while I know there are many priorities that governments spend taxpayer dollars on, it’s painfully obvious that the paving of streets is not one of them.

This week at the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) convention , the topic of infrastructure was top of mind for mayors and councillors who claim that some $24 billion is needed to build or replace roads, bridges, tunnels, parks, sewer systems, water pipes, and other amenities to ensure communities are able to catch up, maintain, or stay ahead of the curve in view of population growth, increasing visitation, climate change impacts, heavy usage, and other factors that erode infrastructure over time. To that end, UBCM has called on the Province to commit to an annual transfer of $650 million for local infrastructure renewal because communities don’t have the money to do it on their own.

Speaking of funding, during the resolutions session on Wednesday, delegates approved the Town of Oliver’s motion for UBCM to lobby the Province to provide financial investments to local governments to identify how to diversify tourism in communities impacted by emergencies. Similarly, a resolution by the District of Sicamous that asked UBCM to petition the Province to develop economic recovery supports that focus on building resiliency for tourism-dependent rural communities, was also endorsed. Finally, a call by the North Central Local Government Association for the Province to significantly increase the funding and mandates for BC tourism to support communities in accelerating economic diversification, was also passed. Very positive developments indeed.

Even better, resolutions by the cities of Fernie and Revelstoke for government to initiate a comprehensive overhaul of the Municipal & Regional District Tax (MRDT) funding framework to expand the allowable usage of funds, including directing a portion towards essential infrastructure projects, and/or the ability to adapt the funds to the specific needs (i.e. projects) of the community, were rescinded on the floor at today’s session. This after both communities overturned their original motions at council meetings prior to the conference this week after lobbying by tourism leaders.

TIABC, BC Destination Management Organization Association (BCDMOA), and BCHA undertook significant advocacy efforts in recent weeks to help defeat both resolutions. However, we’re not stopping there given that this issue will likely surface again. Consequently, we'll continue to educate civic officials on the efficacy of the MRDT program and the value that DMOs bring, as well as advocate provincially to ensure MRDT is retained for its original intended purpose of marketing, projects and programs specific to BC’s visitor economy, as per TIABC’s revised MRDT policy that we introduced last month.

To be clear, TIABC wholeheartedly supports further investment in priorities such as roads, bridges, and wastewater treatment plants, but through a dedicated, provincial infrastructure budget and not MRDT for reasons I alluded to in this space a few weeks ago.

To close the loop on the vertigo incident, the lineup to see an emergency room doctor at VHG was out the door so I endured a long, jarring, nauseous drive home where I was met by paramedics who administered the necessary medication that eventually stopped my brain from gyrating like a pinwheel. I hope and pray I never experience a car ride like that again...or if I do…there are no potholes or speed bumps along the way.

Walt Judas

CEO, TIABC

TIABC Policy on Municipal & Regional District Tax (MRDT)

Within the complex, ever-changing and ultra-competitive global tourism landscape, a buoyant visitor economy cannot be taken for granted. Reliable, consistent and ongoing investment into

attracting leisure visitors, business travellers and conference groups, and into improving the visitor experience, is vital to a destination’s long-term success and community health and well-being.

The advantages destinations enjoy via a dedicated funding stream such as MRDT cannot be overlooked. With this understanding, TIABC has recently revised its policy on MRDT. The policy includes an analysis of the current MRDT program, and eight (8) strategic policy recommendations.

National Day for Truth & Reconciliation

From September 23-30, Canada will observe National Truth and Reconciliation Week, culminating on September 30th with the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (NDTR). The week is a time to reflect on the legacy of residential schools, the forced adoption of Indigenous children, and the thousands who never returned home.

Tourism businesses and organizations can advance reconciliation by promoting understanding, respect, and meaningful engagement with Indigenous cultures by collaborating with Indigenous communities to accurately represent their history, traditions, and cultures in tourism experiences, supporting Indigenous-owned businesses and promoting employment opportunities, educating visitors and staff about the history and current issues facing Indigenous peoples, establishing a long-term partnership with communities, and highlighting and promoting Indigenous-led experiences.

By taking these steps, we can all contribute to understanding, healing, and a more equitable relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.

ICYMI | Episode #29 - Krista Bax

Meet go2HR CEO Krista Bax, as she joins TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas to discuss her career path, her work in sustainable tourism, and what HR challenges business owners & operators are facing in the province today.

New Major Vessels to Increase

Capacity and Reliability

BC Ferries is taking a major step forward in its New Major Vessels (NMV) project, marking a critical milestone in the company’s largest capital investment ever.

To address projected population growth, replace aging vessels, and meet customer expectations, BC Ferries is now continuing the procurement process for the first five of seven new vessels needed for its busiest routes, with the remaining two new vessels to be built in a later phase. Additionally, work will be planned to extend the operational life of two existing C-Class vessels, the Queen of Surrey and the Queen of Oak Bay, through local shipyards and contractors.

Pre-qualified shipyards will now participate in the Request for Proposals (RFP) process with contracts expected to be awarded in Spring 2025, subject to approval from the Ferry Commissioner. The first ship will be expected to start service in 2029, with all five in service by 2031.

Learn more and read the full news release from BC Ferries HERE.

NBCTA Update| Great Northern Circle Route Signage Program

The Northern BC Tourism Association (NBCTA) has reached a major milestone with Phase 1 of their Signage Project. Thanks to provincial funding through the Targeted Regional Tourism Initiatives Fund, and after three years of outreach and working with the Gotta Go Committee, their community partners, interpretive writer, design, fabricators and installation team, pile drivers, and the NBCTA team, they are excited to update that interpretive signs for Sikanni Chief, and Steamboat have been delivered and installed. Installation is slated for Mile 202, Peterson North, and Army Hill later this month.

NBCTA is grateful to all who made this project become a reality and look forward to working with other partners to advance Phase 2 and Phase 3.

Please reach out to April Moi at april@nbctourism.com or Martina Bancroft at martina@nbctourism.com for more information.

COEDC Business and Workforce Survey

The Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission (COEDC) is requesting feedback to inform its 2025 to 2030 strategy through a comprehensive Business and Workforce Survey.

The purpose of the survey is to understand the needs of local businesses and the workforce, as well as the perceptions of business owners and employees regarding working and doing business in the region.

The survey is open until September 30th and should take no more than 15 minutes to complete. Your feedback will be kept confidential and compiled in aggregate form.

Learn more and take the survey HERE.

Tourism Richmond Joins a Growing List of Destinations Adopting Travel AI

Travelers planning a trip to Richmond or seeking accommodation, services and adventure while exploring the city now have "AskLulu", a free AI travel assistant, to answer any and all travel questions about the area.

Tourism Richmond recently launched the AI travel genius on its website, Instagram and WhatsApp using GuideGeek artificial intelligence technology.

Use of AI travel tools is up 40% in the past year, and Richmond is one of the first destinations in Canada to leverage this technology to drive visitor engagement.

Learn more HERE.

Nominations Open for DGV's 2025

Board of Directors

Nominations are now being accepted to serve on Destination Greater Victoria’s (DGV) 2025 Board of Directors.

Being a director involves significant responsibility and time commitment, and directors are expected to participate collaboratively in meetings and events while working to advance tourism in Greater Victoria.

• Please click THIS LINK to access the nomination package listing the board positions up for election and outlining the Board election process.
• Please click THIS LINK for the nomination form for completion by members who wish to stand for election.

Completed forms and other materials required for nominations must be received by Destination Greater Victoria no later than 5:00pm on Friday October 11th.

Job Opportunity | Manager,

Corporate Communications

Destination Vancouver is seeking to fill the position of Manager, Corporate Communications. Reporting to the Director, Communications & Stakeholder Engagement and

working in collaboration with the team’s other Manager, corporate Communications, this role supports the development and implementation of Destination Vancouver’s communications strategy, tactical communications initiatives and development of compelling stories.

The manager is a resource for internal teams in developing stakeholder and external communications and providing strategic communications counsel. The role works to advance Destination Vancouver’s strategic priorities and strengthen the organization’s reputation.

Learn more about this exciting opportunity and how to apply HERE.

NOW AVAILABLE

2024 TIABC Election Toolkit

Just in time for the 2024 provincial election campaign that is about to begin, TIABC has produced a valuable toolkit for your use. The toolkit provides a wealth of resources to better inform you of the current political landscape, what the implications for tourism may be, and how to engage with politicians and candidates.

The election toolkit also addresses the value of tourism to British Columbia and informs on what the tourism and hospitality priorities are, breaking it down into seven key areas of importance;

• Tourism as a Business Sector
• Transportation
• Workforce
• Investment Policy & Regulation
• Education
• Housing

The comprehensive toolkit expands on these areas by providing recommended questions to ask candidates, for example:

"How does your party view tourism as an industry and government priority relative to other sectors of British Columbia’s economy?"

Please download the 2024 TIABC Election Toolkit below, share it with your members and your stakeholders, educate on the value of tourism and inform candidates on today's issues facing our sector. Feel free to send TIABC additional questions that can be added.

Join Us! | 2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference

Planning for the 2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference has already begun, and you're encouraged to Save the Date for this must-attend event. BC TIC will be held at the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre from March 5-7, 2025.

Stay tuned for updates on registration, conference schedule, travel options, accommodation, and programming. More information will continue to be shared through TIABC's communication channels and our conference website at bctourismconference.ca.

We look forward to seeing you in Vancouver next year!

BC TIC 2025 Sponsorship Opportunities

Our sponsors are critical to what makes the BC Tourism Industry Conference a consistent success. Aside from helping to offset the costs of staging this event, sponsors deliver benefits to delegates that help grow their businesses, as well as BC’s visitor economy as a whole.

If your company is keen to connect with tourism leaders and stakeholders throughout British Columbia and Canada, we encourage you to partner with us for the 2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference.

If you have a unique sponsorship idea that you would like to explore, please contact us. We offer the flexibility to customize packages to meet your unique business objectives. Packages are available on a first-come, first-served basis. We look forward to seeing you in beautiful Vancouver.

Contact us at: info@bctourismconference.ca

Consumer Online Directory Delivers

Wellness at Your Fingertips

The mobile-first, online directory created for consumers showcases an exclusive portfolio of accessible 'wellness to transformative travel experiences' at award-winning hotels, resorts, attractions, and community destinations in the province.

WellnessTravelBC delivers easily searchable awe-inspiring and rejuvenating experiences set in the most wildly spectacular and natural environments. Consumers will find wellness trends, tips, reviews, blogs, and contests, plus thought-provoking podcasts, videos, and wellness travel features, all in one engaging space.

The global wellness tourism market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 12.42% from 2023 to 2030, according to recent research by the Global Wellness Institute. By 2025, the worldwide spend will hit US$1.7T, with 1.2 billion wellness trips taken annually.

Learn more about the online directory and destinations HERE.

BC Destinations Ranked Most Instagrammable

A new study reveals the most Instagrammable tourist hotspots across Canada, with three BC destinations recognized in the top 10.

Stanley Park is the second most Instagrammable hot spot. With 758,352 Instagram hashtags and counting, it has an average review rating of 4.5 out of 5 on Tripadvisor.

Granville Island is the fourth most photogenic tourist hotspot, with 419,226 Instagram hashtags and counting. It has an average review rating of 4.5 out of 5 on Tripadvisor. Okanagan Lake rounds out the top 10. Attractions with fewer than 1,000 reviews on Tripadvisor were excluded, leaving 76 of the most popular attractions in the country.

Read the full story HERE.

Would you like your image to appear in our weekly Postcards from BC feature? Contact deborah@tiabc.ca

Canada West Ski Areas Association

The Canada West Ski Areas Association (CWSAA) is a not-for-profit trade association that represents the Ski Areas of Western Canada. Its primary areas of focus are safety and risk management, advocacy, industry growth and communications.

Ski areas in Western Canada attract 10 million alpine skier visits, generate $2.5 billion in spending annually. They employ over 27,000 people (22,590 FTEs) and provide an economic cornerstone for the winter tourism industry.

Learn more about the CWSAA HERE.

Would you like to be featured in our weekly Voice of Tourism, 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.

Destination Vancouver | 2025

Tourism Outlook

Please join Destination Vancouver for the 2025 Tourism Outlook

Understanding the latest economic trends and current developments in our industry will be key to business planning and strategy development for the year ahead.

During this annual briefing, speakers from the Conference Board of Canada, the Vancouver Airport Authority and Destination Vancouver will share their economic forecasts, an update from YVR, a look at current trends in tourism and the outlook for our destination.

Date: September 25

Time: 8:15 am - 11:30 am

Location: Djavad Mowafaghian, SFU Goldcorp, Vancouver

Note: this is an in-person event and will not be recorded.

Learn more and book online HERE.

World Tourism Day

Registration Now Open for Free

Digital Event

The Destination Think team is excited to announce a 24-hour global event celebrating innovations that are transforming the travel industry.

Date: September 27

On World Tourism Day, Destination Think invites you and your colleagues to attend 24 Hours of Travel Innovation. This event is online only and free of charge.

Selected travel industry leaders will present their latest innovations for tourism, travel and communities. This event is composed of keynotes, panel discussions and case studies that will unleash the best knowledge and proven solutions from around the world to take on challenges that our industry manages. Those include:

• Forming coalitions. 
• Leading with your organization’s values.
• Preserving the environment.
• Helping your community benefit from tourism.
• Addressing housing and social equity concerns.
• Navigating a crisis.
• Reducing operating costs.
• Measuring success

Learn more and register HERE.

You're Invited | October Liquor

Industry Meetings

The ABLE BC team is on the road again!

Liquor Industry Meetings are free to attend and open to owners, managers, and staff from any business in the private liquor industry. ABLE BC is extending an invitation to all bars, pubs, hotels, liquor stores, manufacturers, and agents nearby. No need to be an ABLE BC member to attend! Come learn about ABLE BC memberships, key issues they are focusing on, and how you can get more involved in shaping BC’s private liquor industry.

ABLE BC looks forward to meeting you face-to-face to hear about the issues that matter most to you and your businesses!

Learn more and register HERE.

Tourism Digital Academy Accepting Applications

The Tourism Digital Academy is a free, 8-week digital marketing program for BC-based tourism businesses who are interested in building their knowledge and skills in digital marketing to an intermediate level.

Designed for business owners or their marketing team members, this comprehensive program is focused on providing practical, actionable guidance to complete your digital marketing plan. From setting goals to building a better understanding of SEO, website usability, content, email marketing, analytics and more.

• October 8-November 27
• October 15-December 4

Learn more and apply HERE.

Stay Ahead of the Curve: Master

First Aid & Compliance

Join go2HR's free webinar series to stay informed on the upcoming First Aid Regulation changes taking effect November 1st. Learn from industry experts about conducting assessments, updating procedures, and implementing effective emergency protocols to ensure your workplace is compliant and prepared. With practical insights and advice from Tim Pryde of WorkSafeBC and Lonnie Burnett of go2HR, you'll gain valuable knowledge to improve workplace safety and integrate psychological health into your First Aid program.

• Part 1: October 9 - Understanding the Changes & Conducting an Assessment
• Part 2: October 16 - Procedural Considerations and Best Practices 
• Part 3: October 23 - Drills & Training to Meet Regulatory Requirements

Learn more and register for the sessions HERE.

Tourism Kelowna Stewardship Symposium

Join Tourism Kelowna for our the inaugural Stewardship Symposium. 

Date: Wednesday, September 25

Time: 12pm - 4pm

Location: Laurel Packinghouse

The day will be filled with insightful discussions regarding sustainability, inclusivity, and stewardship as well as networking opportunities. Learn from industry experts, share your own experiences, and connect with like-minded individuals.

Visit HERE to learn more and register.

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!

• Early Bird Deadline: Midnight, Thursday, October 24
• Draws date: Friday, October 25 at 12:00 p.m.
• SFI Big Splash Raffle Sales Deadline: Midnight, Friday, December 27
• SFI Big Splash Raffle Draw: Saturday, December 28 at 12:00 p.m.

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

Taste of Abby | Celebrate the Fall Harvest

Taste of Abby is your opportunity to savour unique culinary experiences at the peak of the harvest season. Explore a selection of diverse events, tasting menus and limited-edition creations. Treat your palate to Abbotsford’s rich history, culture and cultivations at this premiere celebration in the beautiful Fraser Valley.

Dates: September 13-22

Learn more about daily events and how to get involved HERE.

Tickets Now On Sale | 2024 Wine Capital Weekend

Oliver Tourism Association and the Wine Capital Weekend Organizing Committee is thrilled to announce that tickets for the 2024 Wine Capital Weekend are now on sale!

Set in the picturesque town of Oliver, from September 20-22, this extraordinary weekend promises to deliver an unforgettable experience filled with world-class wines, craft beers, ciders, spirits, delectable food, and exciting entertainment.

Learn more and purchase your tickets HERE.

From Polls to Profits: What BC's Election Means for Business

The BC Chamber of Commerce Business Unplugged Executive Dinner Series will be welcoming Ken Peacock, Senior Vice President and Chief Economist, Business Council of British Columbia as the keynote speaker.

Date: Monday, September 23

Location: Royal Centre, 1055 W. Georgia Street, Vancouver

Single Ticket: $139 Members / $159 Non-members

Learn more and register HERE.

GVHA’s Annual General Meeting

The Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA) will be holding their AGM.

Date: September 24

Location: Hotel Grand Pacific

Time: 3:30 pm

The meeting includes updates from Christine Willow, Chair of the Board, and CEO Robert Lewis-Manning.

Members of the public are welcome. Learn more and register HERE.

Workshop | Designing Experiences

in Northeastern

Join the Northern BC Tourism Association (NBCTA) for a workshop designed for businesses eager to enhance their tourism potential, increase revenue, and contribute to growing the array of visitor experiences showcasing The Great Wilderness™ (TGW) in Northeast BC.

Date: October 3 - 9:00 am – 3:30 pm

Location: Northern Grand, Fort St John

Businesses, organizations, and individuals are invited to learn more about Beyond the Horizon, what’s influencing tourism experience development, and the opportunities and benefits to businesses and communities. 

Learn more and register HERE.

Capilano Suspension Bridge

Canyon Frights

Looking for Halloween activities in Vancouver that the whole family can enjoy? Take a thrilling journey through Capilano Suspension Bridge Park’s Canyon Frights—if you dare!

Step into the frightful forest and meet your haunted hosts, Elizabeth and Mac, the former owners of Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. The spirited duo will pop up throughout the park, adding a spooky charm to your visit. 

Dates: October 11 - 31

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

CCCTA Annual Tourism Summit & AGM

Join the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association (CCCTA) for an exciting event where all areas of BC come together to network, gain knowledge and support the tourism industry and economy!

Date: October 15-17

Location: Bella Coola

Registration and sponsorship opportunities are now available. Learn more HERE.

Silver Wings Industry and Scholarship Awards Celebration 2024

At the annual Silver Wings Industry and Scholarship Awards Celebration, the BCAC recognizes aviation and aerospace industry colleagues for specific achievements. As well, they disburse almost $150,000 through their Scholarship Awards Program to hard-working students enrolled in aviation and/or aerospace programs in British Columbia.

Date: October 18

Time: 5:45 pm - 10:00 pm PT

Registration is now open - learn more and register HERE.

Note: Prior to the Silver Wings event, they are also hosting the third annual "Chair’s Women in Aviation and Aerospace Reception” (CWAAR), also at the Vancouver Convention Centre (VCC).

For more information and registration HERE.

Culinary Tourism Alliance AGM

You are invited to join in the Culinary Tourism Alliance AGM.

Date: Monday, October 21

Time: 1:00pm (PT) - Virtual

The AGM is a crucial event where they will review the past year’s accomplishments, discuss the future direction, and give you the opportunity to share your insights and vote on important matters. As a valued member of the CTA, your participation is vital as they continue to shape the future of our organization.

Registration is now open HERE.

Once registered, you will receive all the necessary information and materials ahead of the meeting.

Northern BC Tourism Summit

The Northern BC Tourism Summit is back for 2024! It will be the first time the summit has happened since 2019 and will bring together industry experts, travel enthusiasts, and local businesses to discuss the latest trends, strategies, and opportunities in Northern BC's tourism sector.

Dates: October 22-24

Location: Ramada Hotel, Prince George

Early Bird registration ends August 31st! - learn more and register HERE.

Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association AGM & Tourism Industry Conference

The Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association will be holding it's 47th Annual General Meeting & Tourism Industry Conference.

Dates: October 23-24

Location: Prestige Lakeside Resort, Nelson

Early bird registration ends September 13 - learn more and register HERE.

TOTA AGM and Summit

"Immerse Yourself"

Early bird registration is still open for the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association AGM & Summit.

Dates: October 29-30

Location: Vernon

Hosted in partnership with Tourism Vernon and Destination Silver Star. 

Mark your calendar, learn more and register HERE.

Yes Shef: Elevating Women in

Food & Beverage

WORTH Association is proud to announce Yes Shef: Elevating Women in Food & Beverage. We will join once again for an unforgettable evening celebrating the remarkable women of British Columbia's hospitality community.

During this unique culinary experience, guests enjoy tasting stations, savouring delights crafted and curated by female-led teams. Noteworthy Chefs collaborate with student apprentices from the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts to develop and execute a signature dish. Leading Winemakers, Sommeliers, Brewers and Bar Professionals serve wine, beer and cocktail creations.

Date: November 6

Time: 5:30 pm - 9:30 pm

Location: Fairmont Pacific Rim, Star Sapphire Ballroom

Early Bird tickets are still available—use code 2024EarlyBird. Take advantage of the Restaurant Group Discount: purchase 4-8 tickets for your team and save 25%! Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

Annual Lodging & Camping Ideas Forum

The Ideas Forum is designed to provide BC Lodging and Campground Association members and guests with an inexpensive learning opportunity thanks to our sponsors and suppliers. It’s a chance to network with the sponsors, suppliers, fellow members and meet the volunteer board of directors. This is where ideas are discussed, knowledge is shared, and members’ questions answered!

Dates: November 4-6

Location: Manning Park Resort

Registration is now open. Learn more and register HERE.

Save the Date! VCM Industry Forum

Mark your calendars for the Vancouver, Coast & Mountains Industry Forum.

Date: November 21

Location: Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront, Vancouver.

This free, annual event is for tourism businesses and Community Destination Management Organizations in the VCM region. Learn more about tourism trends, major events, sustainability, and more.

Learn more and register 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.

Much more information to come on each event, ticket sales will begin in September.

27th Annual CITAP+ Winter Function

You are cordially invited to save the date for 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 18th 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.

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.