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A teammate on my hockey club is a camera operator in the movie business. His special skill is hanging out of a helicopter to film action scenes, which he’s done all over the world for countless major films. Although he’s based in the United States, he maintains a residence in BC to retain his Canadian roots and for the many occasions when he works on a flick in his home province.
As you know, British Columbia is renowned as Hollywood North with Metro Vancouver as the third largest production centre in North America. Creative BC, the independent agency launched and supported by the Province to sustain and help grow BC’s creative industries, notes the advantages of our film sector are many: cutting-edge infrastructure; competitive and dependable tax incentives; dynamic, experienced cast and crew; on-time, on-budget advantage and production services accessibly centralized within the BC Film Commission (BCFC); and all just a three-hour flight from Los Angeles.
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Aside from the BCFC, there are eight provincially-funded regional film commissions (RFC) that collaborate to promote, serve and assist their regions through local knowledge, industry expertise and ground support to various productions. These local commissions are catalysts in driving jobs and economic activity, especially within the tourism sector. In fact, two of the RFCs are housed within regional destination management organizations (RDMO) who clearly recognize the synergistic relationship between productions and the visitor economy. Many community DMOs play a role as well and will share their new strategy in a workshop at the upcoming BC Tourism Industry Conference.
Aside from what’s known as film tourism, where fans of television series or movies travel to locations within destinations where these productions are shot, the broader film industry also drives significant business to hotels, restaurants, transportation providers, venues, suppliers and other tourism sub-sectors.
Given the constant threat of competition from other jurisdictions, BC’s $2.7 billion film industry - and by extension the tourism sector - is regularly obliged to find ways to retain and/or attract new productions to stage and sound studios, as well as communities throughout the province.
To that end, one of the first orders of business upon his appointment as Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture & Sport (with responsibility for film), Hon. Spencer Chandra Herbert joined a delegation, that included tourism representatives, to visit the heads of motion picture companies in Hollywood to tout BC’s advantages and promise new film-based tax incentives.
For Budget 2025, the Province will include increases to the Film Incentive BC (FIBC) tax credit (which supports Canadian-content productions) and the production services tax credit (PSTC) that provides an incentive for international projects made in BC. It’s a positive step to be sure given how the industry was gutted by a long strike in 2023, which also impacted tourism.
At the same time, I'm convinced that additional support must also be considered for the regional film commissions that operate on a shoestring budget derived from multiple sources such as a modest grant by the ministry split between five RFCs.
By way of background, we’ve been down this road before. In fact, thanks to lobbying efforts by TIABC, BCHA and others, government doubled the annual stipend in Spring 2023, albeit for only one year. They also initiated a review of the entire RFC structure to assess funding needs and determine an equitable and sustainable funding model going forward.
To date the results of the review have not been widely shared but it appears the highly successful RFC operating and funding system is at risk. And because of the implications on tourism, TIABC and BCHA are once again involved to advocate for sufficient and secure funding to keep the RFCs whole.
The new mandate letter received by Minister Chandra Herbert yesterday references a Parliamentary Secretary for Arts, Culture and Film whose focus is to identify opportunities for BC to enhance and grow the film sector (along with arts & culture) to ensure its long-term prosperity. I suggest we start by implementing a stable funding system for regional film commissions, especially considering how little incremental funding is actually needed to generate a sizable return on investment for tourism and other sectors.
My teammate misses a lot of games, mostly because he’s off in some exotic place hanging from a chopper to shoot another action scene for a blockbuster movie. A recent chat in the dressing room after a game convinced me that decades on the road have taken its toll and this talented camera operator and occasional defenceman would rather be working closer to home and play hockey more often to help our squad win a game or two. Lord knows we need him as much as the film sector does.
Walt Judas
CEO, TIABC
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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. | |
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, February 7th.
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. NOTE: - Survey respondents have a chance to win a two-night stay at Crystal Cove Beach Resort in Tofino.
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go2HR Delivers December 2024
Labour Market Information
go2HR has just released the latest workforce statistics for the BC Tourism and Hospitality sector. Here are the highlights:
Labour Market Overview:
- Employment in the sector decreased by 0.6% in Dec. 2024 compared to the previous month.
- Employment levels remain 11,750 jobs below December 2019, indicating the continued recovery journey from pre-COVID levels.
Regional Insights:
- Employment rose in the Cariboo, Kootenay, and Thompson Okanagan regions while declining in other regions.
- The Thompson Okanagan and Vancouver Island regions now exceed pre-pandemic employment levels, while other regions remain below.
Sectoral Performance:
- Increases: Accommodation, Transportation & Travel sectors saw job growth in December.
- Declines: F&B and Recreation & Entertainment sectors faced reductions.
- The Accommodation and Recreation & Entertainment sectors have surpassed December 2019 employment levels, while other sectors remain in recovery.
For more detailed information about employment trends in BC's tourism & hospitality industry, visit the go2HR Employment Tracker HERE.
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Camping Reservations Now Open in Several
BC Parks Campgrounds
Campsites in many BC Parks can now be reserved to prepare for the 2025 spring camping season, up to four months ahead of the desired arrival date. Reservations for the May 2025 long weekend open this week for many BC Parks campgrounds that accept reservations.
- BC Parks added 60 new campsites in three parks but are warning about trail closures at other sites as a result of damage from extreme weather events.
- Fintry Park near Kelowna has 30 new campsites with power hookups, Rolley Lake park near Mission added 17 new walk-in sites, and China Beach Campground in Juan de Fuca Park near Victoria has 13 new sites available.
- The 23-kilometre Berg Lake Trail in Mount Robson Park near Valemount will be open at a later date due to repairs to damage caused by extreme weather in 2021, and repairs to a newly rebuilt trail damaged by a storm in September 2024.
Learn more about BC Parks campsite reservations HERE.
Read the full announcement from government HERE.
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Graham Clarke Group Acquires Oak Bay
Marine Group
Graham Clarke Group (GCG), has announced it has acquired Oak Bay Marine Group (OBMG), a company with a celebrated 62-year legacy in coastal marina services and oceanfront hospitality. The acquisition of OBMG includes its four Vancouver Island marinas (Oak Bay Marina, North Saanich Marina, Ladysmith Marina and Pedder Bay RV Resort & Marina), along with OBMG Boathouses and the Marina Dockside Eatery.
GCG also owns Harbour Cruises (a renowned 113-year-old Vancouver marine tourism and hospitality attraction), Coal Harbour Marina, Western Pacific Marine (BC-based ferry operator and ship builder), and the Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre.
Pictured: Graham Clarke, head of the Graham Clarke Group, left, meets with Brook Castelsky, CEO of the Oak Bay Marine Group, who will stay on after Clarke’s company takes over.
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Apply Now! Join the Destination BC Team at Rendez-vous Canada
Destination BC has announced there is still space for a few more BC tourism businesses to join them at Rendez-vous Canada 2025 in Winnipeg May 27–30. Produced by Destination Canada and Tourism Industry Association of Canada, this event connects Canadian tourism businesses with international travel buyers to create meaningful opportunities.
Tourism businesses interested in applying must meet the selection criteria, including operating for a minimum of one year and already be working with the Travel Trade. Eligible sellers should complete the application form by Sunday, January 19th. Apply HERE.
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2025 Skift IDEA Awards Now Open!
The Skift IDEA Awards continue to spotlight the most innovative ideas in travel design, creativity, and meetings - now under one unified platform.
Whether you’re redefining travel experiences or transforming the meetings and events landscape, this is your chance to have your work celebrated on a global stage. This year’s program has 31 categories across seven distinct criteria groups such as "Tourism" - Projects defining the future of leisure tourism, destination marketing and management, and the visitor experience.
Learn more including how to apply HERE.
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CCCT Welcomes New Team Members
TIABC joins the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association (CCCT) in welcoming three new members to their team:
Marra Stewart is the CCCT's new Project Manager. She brings a wealth of varied experience to the role. Marra’s background will allow her to support Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism in all its initiatives, working towards encouraging responsible tourism and inviting all to come and experience first hand this stunningly beautiful region.
Almarie Esmeralda is CCCT's new Travel Trade and Media Coordinator. An enthusiastic marketer, creative strategist and travel lover, she is all about crafting amazing experiences and driving great results. Almarie brings certifications in digital marketing and social media strategy to the job where she's already blending fresh ideas, leadership, and creativity.
Jenny Bakken of Lone Butte is will join the team this month as the new Marketing Manager. Passionate about the people and communities of the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast, Jenny is thrilled to share her expertise to support operators.
Learn more about the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast tourism region HERE.
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Job Opportunity | Executive Director, Tourism Development
Destination Canada is seeking an enterprising Executive Director, Tourism Development to spearhead initiatives that strengthen Canada's tourism supply, foster strategic partnerships across the private, public, and not-for-profit sectors, and promote tourism as a priority sector for federal government. Reporting to the Senior Vice President, Investment and Destination Development, this critical role is at the intersection of innovation, collaboration, and strategic influence, with a sharp focus on advancing economic tourism development nationwide.
Deadline to apply is January 26. Learn more about the position, and how to apply HERE.
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Rosemead House Seeking General Manager
Rosemead House Hotel (formerly known as the Old English Inn), located in Esquimalt, will be opening this Spring, after an extensive restoration that has spanned over seven years.
The new hotel is now in search of an experienced and innovative General Manager to lead the launch and operations of this prestigious property. This role provides a rare opportunity to shape and lead the operation of a premier luxury hotel from its opening, ensuring Rosemead House becomes an iconic destination for national and international travellers. The new GM must be extremely passionate about the hospitality industry and have experience working with luxury brand hotels. A full job description can be found HERE.
Please submit your resume and cover letter to careers@rosemeadhouse.ca. The property will also be hiring for all FOH and BOH staff in the coming months. Visit the Roadmead House Hotel website HERE to register for updates including job opportunities.
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BCHF Wine Legacy Scholarships Closing Soon!
A reminder that the deadline for the BC Hospitality Foundation's Wine Development Legacy Scholarships is January 24!
This year, there will be two $4,000 scholarships and two $2,000 scholarships awarded.
Learn more, including how to apply HERE.
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We’re hard at work at finalizing details to the 2025 conference program. Expect exceptional sessions by our valued partners at Destination BC, Indigenous Tourism BC, and Destination Canada, along with an outstanding selection of breakout sessions that will provide tools & insights, highlight innovations, and spark thought-provoking discussions.
Detailed programming including updates on keynote speakers, engaging sessions and networking opportunities are available on the conference website. More will be added in the coming days.
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We value our members and are excited to share with them the latest news, successes, and achievements! | |
Air Canada Celebrates Restart of Vancouver-Beijing Service
Air Canada resumed flights between Vancouver and Beijing on January 15th following a five year suspension. A special ceremony was held in Beijing earlier this week with local travel partners, government officials and business leaders in attendance.
Last fall, Air Canada announced it would be resuming daily service from Canada to Beijing and would increase its Shanghai flights to daily starting December 8th 2024. Both routes operate from the airline's YVR hub.
Learn more including the flight schedules HERE.
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Share Your Story and Participate in TIAC's Newest Campaign
Our national partners at TIAC have announced the launch of an exciting new campaign to spotlight the passionate individuals like you who make our tourism industry special – and they want to make you are one of their stars.
Your unique story has the power to inspire others and showcase the authentic heart of your community. Whether you're a tour guide sharing hidden local gems, a hotel concierge making visitors feel at home, or a restaurant owner serving up unforgettable memories, your impact ripples far beyond your business.
Why participate?
- Gain valuable exposure for you and your business through TIAC's multi-channel promotion
- Connect with potential customers who value authentic, personal experiences
- Help shape our destination's story and inspire the next generation
Don't miss this opportunity to be recognized as a key figure in your region's tourism success story. Your passion deserves the spotlight!
Spaces in this campaign are limited to TIAC members only — submit your story HERE.
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SEA TO SKY GONDOLA
Perched at 885m above sea level, overlooking the stunning ocean and mountain vistas of Howe Sound, the Sea to Sky Gondola is a gateway to year-round activities.
A 10-minute scenic gondola ride brings you to the expansive Summit Lodge. Exploring beyond the lodge, you’ll find accessible walking trails and interpretive loops, a small suspension bridge, alpine hiking trails, and two more viewing platforms looking out towards the iconic peaks and turquoise waters below.
Learn more about the Sea To Sky Gondola HERE.
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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.
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Climate Resilience, Governance and CDMOs
This new workshop delivered by Destination BC will provide details of the Community Destination Stewardship Initiative. The one-hour, virtual workshop will focus on government partnerships within the context of climate resilience in the tourism industry, exploring the critical importance of provincial, regional, and municipal partnerships to enhance climate resilience strategies.
Date: January 22
Time: 10:00 am (PST)
Learn more and register HERE.
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Losing Ground: The Definitive Workforce Update
Join Tourism HR Canada for this “state of the union”-style presentation that will explore pressing workforce challenges, including persistent labour shortages, declining competitiveness, and the shifting policies shaping the industry’s future. The webinar will feature comprehensive workforce projections, actionable recommendations, and a review of programs designed to address these issues.
Date: January 22
Time: 10:00 am - Noon (PST)
Whether you’re an employer, educator, industry association leader, destination marketer, HR professional, or government representative, this session offers indispensable insights to inform your strategies and drive meaningful change.
Learn more and register HERE.
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Exploring the VCM Sustainability Toolkit
This webinar is designed by Destination BC for Vancouver, Coast & Mountains region (VCM) communities and tourism businesses to explore practical ways to utilize the sustainability toolkit. It’s a fantastic opportunity to deepen your understanding and drive sustainable practices.
Date: January 23
Time: 10:00 - 11:00 am (PST)
Learn more and register HERE.
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BCLCA Presents Facilities Programming: How Your Physical Design Influences Guest Behaviour, Experience and Revenue Generation
The BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association (BCLCA) is pleased to present the first of their Parking Lot Webinar series:
Your guests are profoundly impacted by the places and spaces, furniture, fixtures, operating equipment and supplies that your facility provides for their use during a stay with you. Facilities Programming is the hospitality industry term for the process of designing the many physical aspects of your property for optimal guest behaviour, maximum guest experience, and overall perception of value.
Date: Thursday, January 23
Time: 9:00 – 10:00 am (PST)
Each Parking Lot and Webinar is recorded and a link to the recordings is made available in the Dogwood Express and posted in their partner extranet. Register HERE for this Parking Lot Webinar.
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Share Your Voice in WORTH Association's Focus Group!
Worth Association is inviting women from Black, Indigenous, and racialized communities who are new to WORTH or who don't engage in their programming to participate in a focus group. This is a unique opportunity to help WORTH understand how they can better welcome and support women like you in the recreation, tourism, and hospitality sectors. Your experience matters. Help WORTH identify barriers and provide feedback on how they can better support women from diverse backgrounds in the industry.
Date: January 24
Time: 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm (PST)
Format: Semi-structured, supportive group discussion facilitated by Shobna Kannusamy
Visit HERE to apply for the focus group. Your input will help create a stronger, more inclusive community. WORTH looks forward to hearing from you and appreciates your contribution!
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CONFERENCES & SPECIAL EVENTS | |
Destination BC | Tourism Digital Academy
The Tourism Digital Academy is a FREE, 8-week digital marketing program for BC 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 your goals, to building a better SEO, website usability, content, email marketing, analytics and more. You'll leave the program with the confidence and knowledge to put that plan into action. There are two intakes:
Dates: January 21 - March 12 and January 29 - March 19
Learn more and register HERE.
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Dine Out Vancouver Returns
Sip, savour and sous vide your way through Canada’s largest food and drink festival. Experience curated fixed-price menus at over 350 of Vancouver’s hottest restaurants and discover unique culinary events that span everything from sea foraging to dumpling fests.
Dates: January 22 - February 9, various locations throughout Metro Vancouver
Learn more about the Dine Out Vancouver participants and events HERE.
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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
Location: Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue, Vancouver
The Forum, will feature moderated panel discussions, keynote expert speakers, and opportunities for virtual community participation from around the province. Read the official news release and learn more about the SOS initiative HERE.
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Dine Around and Stay in Town Victoria
Hosted at the beautiful Crystal Garden, the Gala will feature mouthwatering bites and sips from over 50 local restaurants and beverage purveyors with lively entertainment, socializing and fun!
Gala vendors will put their best food-forward to impress and delight guests, while building excitement for the endless dining experiences that await during the 17-day Dine Around program running from January 24th - February 9th, 2025.
Date: January 23
Time: 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Location: Crystal Garden, 713 Douglas Street, Victoria
Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.
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IMPACT Sustainable Tourism & Travel Summit - Registration Open
The 8th Annual IMPACT Sustainable Tourism & Travel Summit will be held again in Victoria. The annual Global Summit unites DMOs, tourism operators, government, Indigenous leaders and academia in a collaborative, innovative dialogue on our industry challenges.
Day of Impact: January 26
Dates of Conference: January 27-29
Note: Day of IMPACT: Now Available as a Standalone Experience!
Our highly anticipated Day of IMPACT is now available as a standalone experience! Dive deep into the world of sustainable tourism with a full day of interactive experiences, thought-provoking discussion, and actionable insights designed to inspire change in the travel and tourism industry.
Learn more including agenda, registration and accommodation by visiting HERE.
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CLIA Set to Deliver Second Annual Pacific Northwest Symposium in Vancouver, British Columbia on January 29 and 30, 2025.
Following the first and successful Pacific Northwest Symposium held last year, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is excited to welcoming you to join the over 60 cruise line representatives from 11 CLIA member cruise lines, CLIA staff and many Pacific Northwest business and community partners.
Dates: January 29 & 30
Location: J.W. Marriott Parq Hotel, Vancouver
Learn more about the event and register HERE.
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Boating BC AGM
The Boating BC Association will host its Annual General Meeting in conjunction with the Vancouver International Boat Show. The Bareboat Charter & Sailing Schools sector group will hold a meeting immediately following the AGM at the Sandman Hotel. Please contact Bruce Hayne for more details.
Date: January 31
Time: Breakfast at 7:30 AM, followed by the meeting at 8:15 AM
Location: Sandman Hotel Downtown, 180 W Georgia St, Vancouver
All members are encouraged to attend. Learn more and register HERE.
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Coldsnap | Prince George Winter Music Festival
The 18th annual Prince George Winter Music Festival "Coldsnap" is returning! Audiences can expect amazing live music events in a variety of venues across Prince George every day of the festival!
Dates: February 5-9, various locations
Lear more about the festival schedule, how to purchase tickets and lineup of exceptional performers HERE.
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RiSE | Capilano University's School of Tourism Management Annual Celebration
Industry partners are invited to join Capilano University's School of Tourism Management for their annual celebration - RiSE. Organized by the tourism and recreation student association, this event connects students, alumni, and industry partners while celebrating the vibrancy of Vancouver’s tourism industry. This year’s theme is "Tourism in Vancouver", which highlight the diverse offerings that the lower mainland has to offer for people visiting our beloved city.
Date: Monday, February 10
Location: JW Marriott Parq Vancouver, Kitsilano Ballroom (39 Smithe St, Vancouver, BC)
Time: Registration starts at 5:00 PM
Dress Code: Business Casual
Tickets are free or by donation and include a complimentary beverage, food, prizes and more. Help celebrate the local tourism industry while networking with students, alumni, faculty members, and tourism professionals! For more information, reach out to joannajagger@capilanou.ca
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SPARK! - BC Liquor and Cannabis Conference | Early Bird Registration Closes January 24!
ABLE BC is excited to announce 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. SPARK is being held in conjunction with the annual BC Tourism Industry Conference.
Date: March 5
Location: Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre
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. Learn more and register HERE.
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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
Time: 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Location: VCC Broadway Campus, 1120 E. 7th Ave., Vancouver
Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.
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WORTH Leadership Summit
Join WORTH for Western Canada’s only summit dedicated to women in recreation, tourism, and hospitality—an inspiring event designed to uplift women, elevate organizations, and drive progress across our industry.
Date: March 11
Location: Westin Bayshore, Vancouver
Held on the week of International Women’s Day, the WORTH Leadership Summit is for anyone dedicated to uplifting women in recreation, tourism, and hospitality—regardless of gender. Whether you’re a manager, entrepreneur, or aspiring leader, the Summit offers valuable insights and connections to fuel your growth.
Learn more and register HERE.
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Mark Your Calendars — BCHA Summit
The 2025 BCHA Summit is returning to Vancouver! The Summit brings together a distinguished gathering of hospitality industry leaders, including hoteliers, chief decision makers, and key stakeholders from across British Columbia.
Date: April 22-23
Location: Westin Bayshore, Vancouver.
The BCHA Summit offers a dynamic program, Marketplace with 50+ exhibitors, and the prestigious Awards of Excellence.
Visit the conference website and learn more HERE
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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
Location: Vancouver Island Conference Centre, Nanaimo
Connect with Chamber of Commerce and Board of Trade executives, business leaders and association stakeholders from across the province who play a key role in shaping policy, fostering networking opportunities
and driving economic growth throughout British Columbia.
More information and registration to be available soon!
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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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