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In observance of Remembrance Day, the TIABC office will be closed on Wednesday, November 11th, reopening on Thursday, November 12th.
TIABC's Board of Directors and staff join Canadians in honouring those who served and sacrificed for our country, as well as those who continue to serve. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for their service.
Lest We Forget.
Remembrance Day ceremonies will take place in communities across BC. Find a ceremony near you HERE.
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THIS WEEK'S INDUSTRY UPDATES
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Stay updated on the latest news and developments by checking out this week's compilation of important matters impacting and influencing our industry.
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TIABC Annual General Meeting
The Annual General Meeting of the Tourism Industry Association of British Columbia (TIABC) will be held on the following date and location:
Date: Thursday, November 26, 2026
Location: Virtual
Time: 10:00 am (PCT)
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You Are Invited | Help Shape the Future of B.C.'s Tourism Workforce
TIABC and post-secondary institutions across British Columbia are inviting tourism and hospitality industry leaders, business owners and operators to help shape the future of tourism education and workforce development. Regional roundtables will bring employers and educators together to identify skills and training gaps, strengthen connections between classrooms and workplaces, and ensure programs reflect the evolving needs of B.C.’s tourism sector.
Industry members are encouraged to participate in the next session taking place from 1:00 - 3:00 pm (PDT), Nanaimo | November 10 – Vancouver Island University, Building 210, Room 275
An online participation option is also available for those unable to attend in person.
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The Countdown to Victoria
Planning is well underway for the 2027 BC Tourism Industry Conference, taking place February 24–26 at the Victoria Conference Centre - here's your latest roundup of reminders and opportunities to get involved!
REGISTRATION REMINDER - EARLY-BIRD PRICING
Haven't registered yet? Join tourism leaders, operators, partners and decision-makers from across BC for connections, insights and conversations under the theme “The Next 50 Years.”
Early-bird pricing is available until January 14, 2027. Register Now!
ACCOMMODATION REMINDER - BOOK YOUR STAY
Planning to stay overnight in Victoria? Special accommodation rates are available for conference attendees at The Fairmont Empress, book by January 25, 2027.
We recommend booking early to make the most of the available rates.
View hotel information and booking details
BC TOURISM INDUSTRY AWARDS - NOMINATIONS CLOSE NOVEMBER 26
A big thank you to everyone who has submitted a nomination so far! We appreciate you taking the time to recognize the outstanding contributions and achievements across BC's tourism industry.
There's still time to put forward a deserving business, organization, individual or initiative. Award nominations close November 26, 2026, so start planning your submission and help celebrate the people and organizations shaping the future of BC tourism.
Explore award categories and nomination instructions
CALL FOR SILENT AUCTION ITEMS - DONATIONS NOW OPEN
The call for donations for the BCTIC 2027 Silent Auction is now open! We're inviting tourism businesses and industry partners to contribute an item, experience or package to help make this year's auction a success.
It's a great opportunity to showcase your business, destination or tourism experience to colleagues from across BC while supporting the conference's silent auction.
Interested in contributing? Find out more and submit your donation below. Submissions close February 19, 2027.
Submit a Silent Auction Donation
WHY ATTEND THE BC TOURISM INDUSTRY CONFERENCE - HEAR FROM PAST ATTENDEES
What makes the BC Tourism Industry Conference worth attending? Here's what past attendees had to say:
- “The networking that takes place is outstanding. The chance to meet some of the best of the best.”
- “It felt like a genuine opportunity to connect with others across the industry and have real, useful conversations.”
Join us in Victoria to connect with industry peers, exchange ideas and be part of the conversations shaping the next 50 years of BC tourism.
February 24–26, 2027
Victoria Conference Centre
Victoria, BC
We look forward to seeing you in Victoria!
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TIABC Responds to Federal Budget 2026 | Opportunities for Tourism Investment and Growth
The federal budget announced on November 5 includes measures that could help BC tourism businesses invest, recruit workers and improve access to destinations across the province. Several commitments align with priorities advanced by the Tourism Industry Association of BC, including accelerated depreciation, workforce development and disaster preparedness.
The proposed Productivity Mega Deduction would allow businesses to deduct eligible investments in the first year, aligning with TIABC’s joint research and advocacy to encourage tourism investment. Proposed changes to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program could address regional labour needs and improve processing times. Alongside Indigenous workforce investments, those reforms could support efforts to address staffing shortages across BC’s visitor economy.
Commitments to regional air connectivity and transportation could improve access to rural, remote and northern communities. TIABC also welcomes investments in wildfire and flood preparedness, marine conservation and coastal protection, while continuing to seek dedicated tourism business continuity and recovery funding. The association supports the Canada Growth Incentive’s investment objectives but will press for the inclusion of tourism businesses excluded from the proposal. For BC operators, the next test will be how these commitments translate into accessible programs and practical support.
TIAC Welcomes Federal Budget Measures to Strengthen Canada's Tourism Industry
Following yesterday's federal budget announcement, the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) welcomed several measures that reflect the industry's ongoing advocacy efforts and views the budget as a positive step forward.
The budget includes several key measures that could help tourism businesses and destinations grow, remain competitive, and strengthen their contributions to communities across the country:
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Access to Capital: The Productivity Mega Deduction allows businesses to write off 100% of eligible investments in the first year, encouraging tourism infrastructure improvements, equipment upgrades, and business expansion.
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Access to Labour: Reforms to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program aim to address workforce shortages, improve processing times, and better support regional and seasonal tourism operators.
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Access to Canada: Support for regional air routes, airports, ferries, passenger rail, and cultural initiatives could improve visitor access, stimulate tourism spending, and strengthen local economies.
TIAC believes these measures represent meaningful progress for Canada's visitor economy, with the potential to encourage private investment, address workforce challenges, improve visitor access, and support sustainable tourism growth.
- Read the Budget 2026 brief HERE.
- Read more about Budget 2026 from TIAC HERE.
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Applications Now Open for BC's Outdoor Recreation Fund
Applications are now open for the fourth intake of the Outdoor Recreation Fund of BC, with $400,000 available to support community-based outdoor recreation projects across the province. Grants ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 will support trail and infrastructure improvements, environmental stewardship and restoration initiatives, and inclusive outdoor programs that expand access to outdoor recreation.
Eligible applicants include incorporated non-profit organizations, registered charities, and Indigenous governments. Projects must be ready to proceed, with necessary authorizations in place, and require a 1:1 matching contribution, which may include volunteer time and in-kind support.
Application Deadline - January 20, 2027. Learn more and APPLY HERE.
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BC Aviation Council Launches New Podcast Series – The Leading Edge
The BC Aviation Council (BCAC) Leadership Committee has launched The Leading Edge, a new podcast featuring the people leading, innovating and shaping the future of aviation in British Columbia.
Featuring conversations with airport CEOs, regulators and industry leaders, each episode explores personal experiences, leadership challenges and lessons learned. The series aims to inspire emerging aviation professionals, connect the industry and spark meaningful discussions about the future of aviation in BC. Access the podcast series on the BCAC YouTube channel HERE.
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Holiday Splash Returns to Vancouver Aquarium
The Vancouver Aquarium in Stanley Park welcomes the return of Holiday Splash beginning November 12. This seasonal event features daily dive shows with Scuba Claus, festive underwater exhibits, and family photo opportunities at the Jellyfish Snow Globe.
Visitors of all ages can enjoy a variety of holiday-themed activities while exploring the Aquarium. Learn more HERE.
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TOURISM HR SPOTLIGHT WITH go2HR
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Introducing LeadSafe: Health and Safety Training for Tourism and Hospitality Leaders
Across BC’s tourism industry, supervisors and managers are at the heart of the visitor experience. They lead teams through busy days, welcome and train new staff, and are often the first people employees turn to with a question or concern.
To support them, go2HR has launched LeadSafe, a new health and safety training suite built for supervisors and managers in BC’s tourism and hospitality industry. LeadSafe gives leaders practical skills to keep their teams safe, supported, and confident on the job.
The training is online and self-paced, and employers can take the complete package or choose the modules that best fit their team’s needs:
Eligible tourism and hospitality employers may qualify for free access to the All Modules course. To confirm eligibility, contact the Safety team at safety@go2hr.ca. Explore All LeadSafe Modules in the following link.
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GovDesk
GovDesk is a Kelowna-based consulting business founded in 2025 specializing in governance and administrative support for nonprofit organizations, associations and boards of directors. They offer a range of services, including board meeting coordination, agenda and minute preparation, AGM planning, policy and bylaw reviews, and strategic governance support.
Learn more about GovDesk HERE.
Photo Credit: Destination BC / Tourism Kamloops / Scott Bakken
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Working Together on What Matters Most
To bolster industry advocacy efforts, membership in the Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) is a good investment.
Becoming a member of TIABC offers many significant benefits that can enhance your business, elevate your voice on the issues that matter, and contribute to the success of BC’s visitor economy. As well, you will gain ease of access to a collaborative network of businesses, partners and allies that support the tourism industry, both nationally and provincially.
Contact info@tiabc.ca for more information, visit our website HERE or the link below.
| | | CONFERENCES & SPECIAL EVENTS | |
PNWER Infrastructure, Trade and Tourism Forum
The Forum will bring together over 150 legislators, policymakers, and private sector members from throughout Canada and the U.S. to develop a collaborative approach to modernizing infrastructure that moves people and goods across our region more efficiently. The event will also feature a debriefing session on the outcomes and lessons learned from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Dates: November 12 - 13, 2026
Location: Sandman Signature Vancouver Airport Hotel, Richmond
Hybrid In-Person/Virtual Event
Learn more and REGISTER HERE.
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2026 Tourism Congress
The Tourism Congress is Canada’s leading and only national-level event bringing together all sectors of the industry. The 2026 Tourism Congress is all about ACCESS: Unlocking Canada’s Tourism Advantage.
Dates: November 17 - 19, 2026
Location: Fredericton, NB
Early bird registration is now open! Learn more and REGISTER HERE.
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Yes Shef Vancouver 2026
Canada’s Premier Celebration of Women in Food and Beverage
Mark your calendars, the countdown to Yes Shef Vancouver 2026 starts now.
Date: November 18
Location: Fairmont Pacific Rim, Vancouver
This unforgettable evening of incredible food will bring together top culinary talent for a celebration of flavour, mentorship, and leadership.
Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.
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IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism Conference | "A Decade of Impact - From Vision to Practice"
The 10th anniversary of the IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism Conference is taking place in beautiful Victoria, BC.
Dates: January 24 - 27, 2027
Location: Victoria Conference Centre
Register now to reserve your pass to a transformative dialogue around sustainability and regenerative tourism in Canada, and around the globe. Leaning into the topics of human connection to place, biodiversity, resilience, and driving action, 2027's conference aims to build on a decade of progress to shape the future ahead.
Early bird registration is now open! Learn more and REGISTER HERE.
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VCM Industry Forum
The Vancouver, Coast & Mountains (VCM) Industry Forum is scheduled for:
Date: Tuesday, January 19, 2027
Time: 8:45 am - 5:00 pm
Location: Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier, North Vancouver
Updated details to the Forum will be distributed in advance. Register for the Forum HERE.
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BCHA 2027 Summit
The British Columbia Hotel Association invites you to the 2027 BCHA Summit.
Dates: May 10–11, 2027
Location: Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre Hotel
Under the theme, Resilience: Leading Through Change, BC’s hospitality community will come together for two days of timely insights, valuable connections and celebration.
Early bird registration is now open! Learn more and REGISTER HERE.
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Taste of Place Summit Coming to Kelowna in 2027
The Taste of Place Summit is heading to Kelowna, bringing together tourism and economic development leaders, marketers, producers and changemakers from across Canada and beyond to explore the future of culinary and agritourism.
Dates: May 17–18, 2027
Hosted by the Culinary Tourism Alliance in partnership with the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, the two-day summit will showcase the region’s culinary and agritourism experiences while providing opportunities to exchange ideas, build connections and explore strategies for creating authentic tastes of place.
Learn more HERE.
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Learn More | The READI™ Program
The READI™ program is designed to support the growth and resilience of Canada’s tourism industry. Whether you’re an independent business or an organization looking to support your members, READI™ gives tourism operators practical tools, training, and support to handle challenges and take advantage of new opportunities.
Participants can choose from various designation categories based on their organizational focus and goals.
Learn more about the READI™ program HERE.
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TIABC recognizes that our members, stakeholders and staff occupy the ceded, unceded and traditional territories of Indigenous Nations across British Columbia. We sincerely appreciate the opportunity to live, work and play on the lands that our Indigenous friends and First Nations ancestors honour and care for.
#970 - 1050 West Pender Street | Vancouver, BC | V6E 3S7 | 604.685.5956
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