|
On behalf of the TIABC Board and staff, we wish you a safe and most enjoyable Victoria Day long weekend.
We encourage you to take this opportunity to unwind with loved ones or partake in the numerous exciting events and activities across the province. Kindly note that our office will be closed for the statutory holiday and will reopen on Tuesday, May 19th.
| | |
The 90-day Reflection
They say it takes a village to raise a child. In my experience, that is absolutely true. I have always been grateful for the people in my life, and in my daughter’s life, who helped shape the experiences that defined her childhood. Teachers, coaches, neighbours, friends, family. Each played a role. No single person carried the full weight. It was collective effort that made the difference.
As I stand back and reflect on my first 90 days as CEO of TIABC, I realize that this analogy applies remarkably well to the tourism sector.
You could argue it applies to every industry. And perhaps it does. But in these first three months, I have felt it particularly strongly here.
Tourism is not built by one operator, one association, one level of government, or one community. It is a network of people and organizations working in parallel and in partnership. It is municipalities investing in infrastructure. It is Indigenous communities leading cultural tourism initiatives. It is small business owners opening their doors early and closing them late. It is provincial ministries aligning policy. It is federal representatives listening and engaging. It is destination marketing organizations telling stories that resonate far beyond our borders.
It is a village.
In my short tenure, I have witnessed firsthand the depth of collaboration that exists across this sector. I have seen competitors share insights. I have watched operators mentor newcomers. I have observed regional leaders advocate not just for their own communities, but for the province as a whole.
There is something distinct about the people who are drawn to tourism. It is, by nature, a people-focused sector. It requires empathy. It requires adaptability. It requires a willingness to work with others, often in complex and shifting environments. It attracts individuals who understand that experiences are not created in isolation.
Tourism thrives on partnership.
That does not mean the industry is without its challenges. There are moments when goals and policies do not yet align. There are perspectives that differ, sometimes sharply. There are stakeholders who do not always see eye to eye on the path forward. Healthy tension exists in any sector that is growing, evolving, and navigating change. In tourism, those differences often reflect regional realities, competing priorities, and the complexity of balancing economic growth with community well-being and environmental stewardship.
But even in those moments of disagreement, what I have seen is a shared commitment to the bigger picture. The conversations may be robust. The viewpoints may vary. Yet underneath it all is a common understanding that the sector succeeds only when we continue to engage with one another.
In these first 90 days, I have had the privilege of meeting with operators from urban centres and rural towns, Indigenous leaders, government representatives, educators, investors, and community advocates. What has struck me most is not just the scale of the sector, but the shared commitment to seeing it succeed.
There is a lot of work yet to do. Workforce gaps. Investment hurdles. Infrastructure pressures. Policy alignment. But there is also a strong foundation of collaboration that gives me confidence.
Just as raising a child requires guidance, support, and shared responsibility, so too does building and sustaining a tourism economy. It requires all of us. Industry, government, communities, educators, and partners.
Ninety days in, I am reminded that leadership in this sector is not about standing alone at the front. It is about listening, connecting, and ensuring that the collective voice is clear and consistent.
If it takes a village to raise a child, it takes a province working together to power tourism.
And I am grateful to be part of that village
Amber Papou, B.Ed, MBA, ICD.D
CEO, TIABC
| | |
Stay updated on the latest news and developments by checking out this week's compilation of important matters impacting and influencing our industry.
| | | |
YOU’RE INVITED: TIABC Roundtable Series
Connecting with Members and Tourism Collaborators in the Kootenays
Help shape TIABC’s advocacy priorities by joining TIABC CEO Amber Papou at one of the final roundtables in this series. These sessions will focus on tourism policy, current challenges, and the opportunities affecting your business or organization.
Fernie
Date: Wednesday, May 27, 2026
Time: 2:00 - 4:00 PM
Location: College of the Rockies
REGISTER HERE
Invermere - To be combined with the Columbia Valley Tourism AGM
Date: Thursday, May 28, 2026
Time: 2:00 – 4:00 PM
Location: Copper Point Resort
REGISTER HERE
We are looking forward to meeting with you later this month!
| |
The Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) is seeking input from its members and stakeholders to assess the level of satisfaction with the leadership that TIABC provides to the tourism industry, and to gain further knowledge from your insights and responses to each section of the survey to help shape our future direction, provide more value for members, and ensure our effectiveness as advocates for BC's visitor economy.
The survey will take approximately 12 minutes to complete. We respectfully request your response by end of day, Friday, June 12.
We thank you in advance for taking the time to complete the survey. Your feedback and openness is very much appreciated. We will be sharing these results with you in the months ahead.
| |
A Reminder to Plan for Travel and Be Prepared This Long Weekend
Check fire restrictions, plan for busy roads in B.C.
The Province is reminding residents and long-weekend travellers to plan, be prepared and stay safe this Victoria Day long weekend as fire prohibitions take effect in parts of B.C.
People are asked to take precautions with any fire use, stay up to date on current wildfire activity, check for road closures, evacuation alerts and orders, and pay attention to weather conditions.
Learn more and read the official notice from the Province HERE.
| |
TIAC Release Recommendations to
Fall 2026 Federal Budget
The Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) Fall 2026 Federal Budget recommendations have recently been distributed.
TIABC was pleased to contribute to the submission through our ongoing collaboration with the Provincial and Territorial Tourism Industry Association (PTTIA) network. Drawing on feedback from industry members and tourism-related associations across the country, the submission outlines six high-impact recommendations aimed at strengthening Canada’s tourism sector.
Recommendations:
-
Expand and modernize the Canada Summer Jobs program to support year-round and more flexible youth employment opportunities.
-
Establish the Canadian International Workforce Program, addressing persistent labour shortages through two dedicated immigration streams.
-
Implement a Capital Gains Reinvestment Deferral for tourism assets.
-
Expand the Accelerated Capital Cost Allowance to include tourism assets.
-
Strengthen regional connectivity by expanding existing transportation infrastructure programs to support essential air services and enable new connections.
-
Increase Destination Canada’s base appropriation by $30 million annually to expand international marketing in priority non-U.S. global markets.
The recommendations reinforce that tourism is vital to the federal government’s ambitions to grow the economy, diversify trade and exports, and build more resilient and connected communities. Industry is encouraged to read the written submission for the pre-budget consultation in advance of the Fall 2026 Budget.
| |
Resources Now Available for Changes to Pay Transparency Act
Effective November 1st, employers with 50 or more employees (approximately 8,500 employers) will be required to prepare and post pay transparency reports, many for the first time.
To build employer awareness and readiness ahead of the November reporting period, the Ministry of Finance has developed several tools and resources, including a pay transparency reporting tool, to make the reporting process simple and straightforward
for employers. The Ministry is also offering regular webinars that employers can register
to attend.
- Further information about this and other requirements under the Pay Transparency Act is available HERE.
- Free tools and resources are available HERE.
- Access the instruction video HERE.
| |
Province to Showcase Key B.C. Industry Sectors Including Tourism During FIFA World Cup 2026
BC Business House is a provincial government hub launched by the Government of British Columbia to advance trade, attract foreign investment, and showcase key B.C. industries such as technology, agriculture, transportation, and tourism.
It will operate at the Vancouver Convention Centre as a dedicated event space for business meetings, networking, and hosting corporate events that will bring together domestic and international business leaders, investors, and government partners.
BC Business House is designed to leverage global attention to promote economic growth and create high-quality jobs across the province. The hub features curated sector briefings, Tourism Showcases, and facilitated networking intended to help businesses explore commercial connections and scale globally. The programming begins with a dedicated Tourism Showcase on Friday, June 12, just ahead of the first match in Vancouver.
- More information and registration details for upcoming programming can be found HERE.
- Read the official announcement from the Province HERE.
| |
FIFA World Cup 2026™ Industry Resources
Destination BC has developed a valuable resource page for British Columbia’s tourism industry; operators, frontline staff, and visitor services teams, to help guests navigate the FIFA World Cup 2026™ this summer. It covers the key information you’ll need, with links to official partner sources for the details that continue to evolve.
A reminder that tournament information may change. Always confirm the latest information through the official websites provided on THIS PAGE.
| |
Virgin Voyages Makes Inaugural Call to Canada Place Cruise Terminal
There was a warm welcome at the Canada Place terminal earlier this week with the arrival of Virgin Voyages to the Port of Vancouver in 2026.
The cruise line’s Brilliant Lady made its inaugural call to the terminal as part of Virgin Voyages’ new annual Alaska itinerary. The 2,700-passenger vessel welcomed and disembarked guests, replenished onboard supplies, and prepared for its journey north through Canada’s breathtaking Inside Passage en route to Alaska, marking an exciting milestone for both the cruise line and the Port of Vancouver.
Brilliant Lady is one of nearly 360 cruise ship calls scheduled for the Canada Place terminal this year - each injecting an estimated $3 million into the local economy and supporting jobs.
| |
Travel and Tourism Sector Expected to Lead Global Economic Growth in 2026
New research from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) projects that global travel and tourism will continue to outperform broader economic growth in 2026. The sector is expected to contribute $12 trillion to the global economy, representing 9.9% of worldwide GDP.
WTTC’s latest Economic Impact Research (EIR), forecasts global travel and tourism growth of 3.2% in 2026, surpassing projected global economic growth of 2.4%. The sector is also expected to support 376 million jobs worldwide next year, equivalent to one in every nine jobs globally.
Looking further ahead, travel and tourism is projected to generate nearly 89 million new jobs over the next decade, accounting for roughly one-third of all new jobs expected across the global economy.
Learn more from the WTTC HERE.
| |
ITBC Launch Powwow Trail & Indigenous
Festivals Grant
Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) is proud to launch the 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝘄𝗼𝘄 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗹 & 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗼𝘂𝘀 𝗙𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁, supporting Indigenous-led powwows and cultural celebrations taking place across British Columbia this summer.
These gatherings play an important role in strengthening communities, sharing traditions across generations, and creating meaningful opportunities for visitors to experience Indigenous cultures respectfully. Powwows and festivals also support Indigenous tourism by welcoming people to connect with local Nations, stories, arts, foods, songs, and dances in authentic ways.
Through this micro-grant program, ITBC aims to support community-led celebrations while helping promote Indigenous tourism experiences and destinations throughout the province.
𝗗𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝘆: 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗲 𝟱, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲. Learn more about the grant including how to apply HERE.
| |
Help Shape Future Travel to Stanley Park
TransLink is inviting feedback on a proposed seasonal bus route around Stanley Park to improve access to one of Vancouver’s most iconic destinations.
The proposed route would:
- Improve access to beaches, trails, and key park attractions
- Make it easier to get around without a car
- Help reduce parking pressures during the summer
TAKE THE SURVEY by May 31st.
| |
This week continued to reinforce the importance of coordinated advocacy and strong sector alignment as tourism organizations, operators, destination leaders, and government partners advanced conversations on some of the most important issues facing BC’s visitor economy.
Key discussions included labour and workforce challenges through ongoing federal consultations, Temporary Foreign Worker Program realities, community safety concerns impacting visitor districts and downtowns, recreation infrastructure and trails policy, permitting modernization, transportation connectivity, and destination organization sustainability.
TIABC also continues to monitor and engage on federal economic and infrastructure discussions, including national advocacy with the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC), particularly around tourism’s role in economic resilience, workforce stability, transportation access, investment readiness, and regional competitiveness. Many of these priorities closely align with needs being identified across British Columbia.
One of the strongest themes emerging across multiple files is the growing momentum behind collaboration. Tourism organizations and coalitions continue demonstrating the value of aligned messaging, shared priorities, and constructive engagement across ministries and sectors.
This was reflected through ongoing Adventure Tourism Coalition (ATC) engagement, including continued discussions around stewardship, access, permitting, recreation infrastructure, emergency preparedness, and operational certainty. Thank you to the many operators and partners who contributed to recent ATC and HeliCat survey work. The level of participation demonstrates both the professionalism of the sector and the strength of collective industry input.
That momentum extends well beyond a single table. This week, TIABC Policy Committee Chair Kathy MacRae participated in a Northern BC land use workshop on our collective behalf, while WTA board member Mollie Cameron contributed to Nature Strategy engagement discussions in Victoria. Across British Columbia, tourism leaders continue showing up in important policy conversations to help ensure tourism perspectives are represented alongside stewardship, community, Indigenous partnership, conservation, and economic priorities.
The strength of BC tourism has always come from people and organizations working together - industry associations, DMOs, operators, Indigenous tourism, government partners, and community leaders advancing practical solutions and long-term sustainability for the sector.
As I prepare for my final weeks transitioning from TIABC to Tourism Kelowna, I remain incredibly encouraged by the dedication, professionalism, and momentum across the industry and look forward to continuing many of these important relationships from the destination organization side.
| | | |
BC Hospitality Foundation Celebrate 20 Years of Impact | A Night to Remember
Join British Columbia’s hospitality community for an extraordinary evening celebrating the 20th anniversary of the BC Hospitality Foundation.
On July 22nd, industry leaders, celebrated chefs, and passionate supporters will gather for an unforgettable culinary fundraiser benefiting the people who make hospitality possible.
This milestone event aims to raise $100,000 to ensure the BC Hospitality Foundation can continue providing financial assistance to hospitality workers facing crisis and hardship across the province.
Learn more and purchase your tickets HERE.
| |
Canada's First Sky-High Glass Cube Officially Opens on Vancouver Island
The Malahat SkyWalk is elevating its internationally acclaimed visitor experience with the debut of The Overhang - the world’s first enclosed glass cube suspended from the top of a spiral tower and the only attraction of its kind in Canada.
Designed to deliver an unforgettable adrenaline rush, the highly anticipated experience invites thrill-seekers to step out into the sky for a heart-pounding adventure unlike any other.
Learn more HERE.
| |
New! | Outdoor Recreation Job Board
ICYDK | A few weeks ago, the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORCBC) launched their new Outdoor Recreation Job Board to help connect people with outdoor recreation careers across British Columbia.
Job postings are shared on our website, in their newsletter, and on their social media channels (every Friday). Are you hiring or looking for a job?
Submit your posting or view current opportunities HERE.
| AN AI MOMENT WITH PETER PILARSKI | |
AI Adoption Isn’t a Technology Problem
Last month, Peter did something embarrassingly simple: He gathered his team for 15 minutes every morning for 30 days. No "transformation" jargon or formal town halls, just honest conversations about how their work was changing.
What he learned is that the hardest part of organizational change, including AI Adoption, has nothing to do with the technology. While most organizations obsess over tools, they ignore the research-backed "10-20-70 rule": 70% of successful transformation relies entirely on people, culture, and leadership alignment.
If you’ve wondered why expensive tools often sit idle, it’s likely because the "human" part of the equation was skipped. In his latest post, Peter breaks down the 15-minute method he used to make organizational change actually stick.
Read more on why AI Adoption Isn’t a Technology Problem in the link below.
| |
SPORT FISHING INSTITUTE of BC
Since 1980, the Sport Fishing Institute of BC has served as a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and advancing British Columbia’s sport fishing sector. Its membership represents a diverse network of industry stakeholders who are united by a shared commitment to sustainability. The organization works to help protect BC’s natural resources while ensuring sustainable angling opportunities continue to thrive and be promoted for future generations.
Learn more about the Sport Fishing Institute of BC HERE.
Photo Credit: Destination BC
| | |
Let's Work 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.
| | |
|
ITBC Present | Practical Tools for a Changing Market
This 60-minute workshop is designed for Indigenous tourism operators seeking to adapt and grow. Through short presentations and open dialogue, participants will discuss current trends, emerging risks and opportunities related to sustainability and market positioning.
Grounded in Indigenous perspectives on sustainability and interconnectedness, the session offers practical approaches to market positioning—covering how to communicate sustainability, reach aligned visitors, and share what is inherent and sacred.
Attendees leave with actionable insights to support next steps, from attracting the right visitors to shaping how their work evolves.
Date: May 28th, 2026
Time: 10:00-11:00 AM (PT) - Virtual
Learn more and REGISTER HERE.
| |
Heritage BC Presents Living Threads | Practical Ways to Engage with Indigenous Intangible
This one hour webinar explores Intangible Cultural Heritage, also known as Living Heritage and its connection to Indigenous heritage in practical, meaningful ways. Participants will gain tools and approaches they can use right away to recognize, document and support Indigenous intangible heritage through respectful, community-driven practices.
Date: June 1
Time: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm (PT)
Learn more and REGISTER HERE.
| | | CONFERENCES & SPECIAL EVENTS | |
Les Clefs D'or Tourism Showcase 2026
Les Clefs d’Or Tourism SHOWCASE is an annual trade show designed to educate the city’s tourism industry professionals and specifically the frontline hotel staff, tourism associations and inbound destination operators on the activities, offerings and services available to travellers to Metro Vancouver, Victoria and Whistler/Squamish.
Come and visit this free event with over 80+ exhibitors and lots of prizes and giveaways!
Date: Tuesday, May 19
Location: East Building, 999 Canada Place
Learn more HERE.
| |
BC Outdoor Recreation Conference 2026
The Outdoor Recreation Council of BC is celebrating 50 years of advocacy in 2026, and we’re marking the occasion in a big way! Join us at Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops, BC, for this milestone event.
Dates: May 20 - 22
Location: Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops
This conference will bring together outdoor recreation leaders, advocates, and enthusiasts from across British Columbia to reflect on our past, celebrate our achievements, and shape the future of public recreation. Look forward to engaging speakers, insightful panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and valuable networking with recreationists, land managers, and decision-makers. Learn more and REGISTER HERE.
| |
BCAC 2026 Conference Kelowna: Soaring Above Challenges – Eyes on the Horizon
Registration is open for the BC Aviation Council spring conference!. (Pro Tip: Book your accommodation ASAP as the CHL Memorial Cup is also taking place in Kelowna in May.
When: May 25 - 27
Where: Kelowna
For updated event details, ticket prices as well as links for discounted hotel rooms at the lakeside Eldorado Hotel and Monteo Resort, VISIT HERE.
| |
74th Annual BC Chamber of Commerce AGM and Conference
Building What Matters: Clarity, Trust, and Partnership in Action
With new leadership at the BC Chamber of Commerce, this conference marks an important moment to look ahead, focusing on clear direction, trusted relationships, and meaningful collaboration across sectors and regions.
Date: June 1 - 3rd
Location: Fort St. John
Learn more and REGISTER HERE.
| |
BC Trails Day
The Outdoor Council of BC wish to remind you that BC Trails Day is on June 6th!
It’s a day to celebrate the incredible trail networks across British Columbia while promoting responsible recreation, volunteering, environmental stewardship, and equitable access to the outdoors.
Learn more about the micro-grant program and how to register your event HERE.
| |
Culinary Tourism Alliance’s Taste of Place Summit
From Soil to Story
Hosted by the Culinary Tourism Alliance, the Taste of Place Summit is a national gathering bringing together destination leaders, chefs, producers and marketers from across Canada to celebrate and advance culinary and agritourism.
Dates: June 15 - 16
Location: Westin, Edmonton
Delegates can expect immersive learning journeys, thought-provoking discussions during main stage programming and plenty of networking along the way.
Early bird registration is now open until Dec. 31. Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.
| |
Save the Date | Wine Capital Weekend 2026
Wine Capital Weekend returns, welcoming visitors and locals alike to three days of wine, craft beverages, live music, food, and community celebration in Canada’s Wine Capital.
Dates: September 18 - 20 | Oliver
From the energy of the Kick-Off Party to the excitement of Cask & Keg and the iconic Festival of the Grape, the weekend showcases the very best of the South Okanagan during peak harvest season.
| |
The Kootenay Tourism Summit
The Kootenay Tourism Summit will kick off on the afternoon of October 27 with Annual General Meeting business, followed by a full Agenda featuring a range of speaker sessions, panels & discussions and presentations from industry leaders.
Date: October 27 - 28
Location: Best Western Plus Fernie Mountain Lodge
Registration opens June 2026. Summit Agenda coming soon! Learn more HERE.
| |
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 HERE.
| |
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.
| | | |
|
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
| | | | |
