New Meeting Rules will Strengthen Indigenous, Local Government Relations

The Province is proposing changes to legislation to strengthen collaboration between First Nations and local governments while ensuring the protection of confidential and culturally sensitive information.

Currently, local governments can only hold closed meetings for specific reasons that don’t include First Nation relations. The proposed amendments to the Community Charter and Vancouver Charter would expand these provisions - allowing closed meetings when discussing sensitive or confidential information shared by First Nations, and making it mandatory to close meetings during negotiations with First Nations or other local governments.

The new rules would apply only to specific situations and are being enacted to balance the need for public transparency with requests from local governments and First Nations to support their ability to hold in-camera discussions about certain Indigenous heritage sites and knowledge, or during government-to-government negotiations and discussions.

Read the official announcement from government and learn more about the proposed changes HERE.

Restaurants Canada Release Statement on

BC Liquor Strike

Restaurants and bars in the province are quickly running out of liquor inventory, as the BC Liquor strike enters its sixth week with no resolution in sight. Restaurants Canada is urging the BC government and the BC General Employees’ Union (BCGEU) to reach an agreement.

According to Restaurants Canada, approximately 41% of restaurants in B.C. are already struggling financially, operating at a loss or just breaking even. Restricting their ability to serve alcohol, while consumers can still buy it for home use, could force many to close permanently.

Currently, restaurants and bars must buy liquor directly from open BC Liquor stores, where they face strict purchase limits (three items per SKU per day). With frequent picket lines shutting down various stores, this process is leaving business owners and staff scrambling to obtain alcohol supplies.

Read the full statement from Restaurants Canada HERE.

TIAC Introduces New Resource | Tourism Can

Nationwide, the sector generates over $130 billion in economic activity, contributes $50.8 billion to GDP, and supports the livelihoods of over 2 million Canadians. Tourism businesses are vital to every community and region across Canada.

The Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) has developed a new resource and tool that will now enable the ability to see how tourism impacts your community. Access the tool through the link below to discover how tourism directly impacts your local community — through job creation, business development, and economic growth.

ICYMI | Destination BC's Iconic Destination

Brands Launch

If you were unable to participate in Destination BC's (DBC) recent webinar showcasing the full consumer Iconic Destination Brands, it is now available for viewing on YouTube.

The session explores how the Iconic brands are coming to life across key touch points in the consumer journey. You’ll learn more about the evolution of Super, Natural British Columbia and the Let the Outside In creative platform, DBC's media plan and activations across travel trade, travel media, and access to new tools for industry partners to leverage awareness of the new brands. Learn more about the Iconic Brands HERE, or view the recording below.

Finalists for the 2025 Canadian Tourism Awards Announced!

The Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) has just announced the finalists for the 2025 Canadian Tourism Awards. Presented by TIAC, the awards recognize the best and brightest in Canada’s tourism industry. From outstanding teams and organizations to individual luminaries who surpass all expectations, exemplifying a commitment to provide nothing short of exceptional tourism experiences from coast to coast to coast. 

Congratulations to TIABC member Big White Ski Resort for being recognized as a finalist for the Business of the Year award! Kudos to Fresh Tracks Canada, who are finalists for Tourism Employer of the Year, and Oak Bay Beach Hotel employee Moin Khatri for the Under 30 Tourism Trailblazer Award.

View the full list of finalists HERE.

Small Businesses Invited to a Free Virtual Summit

The BC Chamber of Commerce is sharing details about the upcoming Small Business Week Summit. This free, virtual event features a week of engaging sessions designed to help small businesses build resilience, embrace innovation, and prepare for the future.

Each session is complimentary and open to all, making it a great opportunity for small business owners and leaders across your networks to gain practical insights and connect with experts.

Small Business Week Summit Sessions:

• Monday, Oct 20 – Navigating Tariffs: Strategies for Business
• Wednesday, Oct 22 - Inclusive Hiring: Strategies to Build Diverse and Resilient Workforces
• Thursday, Oct 23 – AI in Action: Practical Ways to Save Hours Every Week
• Friday, Oct 24 - From Everyday Actions to Big Change: Putting Purpose to Work in Small Business

Learn more about each session and register HERE.

BCHA's Fast Track Your Future Education Series

The BC Hotel Association's (BCHA) Fast Track Your Future education series is back! Designed for aspiring, new, and seasoned leaders who want to build practical skills, improve performance, and advance their careers.

Each series is designed to be accessible, relevant, and immediately applicable, helping individuals and teams grow their impact and contribute to long-term business success.

2025/2026 Series Schedule:

• Housekeeping Leadership & Operational Excellence sponsored by Eden Textile | Oct 29 – Dec 3, 2025 Starting soon! Register now below 
• Human Resources Strategy for Hospitality sponsored by VVS Global | Jan 14 – Feb 18, 2026
• Communication & Marketing Strategies for Hospitality | Jan 27 – Mar 3, 2026
• Managing Food & Beverage Operations | March 4 – April 8, 2026
• Advanced Leadership for Hospitality Professionals – level 2 | Apr 15 – May 20, 2026
• Guest Experience & Service Excellence sponsored by Stayntouch | Apr 21 – May 26, 2026 

Learn more about the Fast Track Your Future Series HERE.

BCDMOA Announce Chair & Board of Directors for 2025-2026

The BC Destination Management Organization Association (BCDMOA) held its Annual General Meeting last month, where members met virtually to review work over the past year, as well as plans for the year ahead. The following new and returning board members were also announced:

• Jamie Angus, Executive Director, Tourism Prince Rupert
• Allison Colthorp, Executive Director, Tourism Chilliwack
• Gerardo Corro, Executive Director, Tourism New Westminster
• Erik Fisher, CEO, Tourism Kamloops
• Jikke Gyorki, Executive Officer, Tourism Fernie
• Ian Lobb, Executive Director, Oliver Tourism
• Paul Nursey, CEO, Destination Greater Victoria
• Carly Pereboom, CEO, Tourism Nanaimo
• Chris Peters, Executive Director, Tourism Burnaby
• Jenna Robins, Project Coordinator, Salmon Arm Economic Development Society
• Annie Wise, Executive Director, Sunshine Coast Tourism

Jikke Gyorki will resume her position as Chair of the organization, while Carly Pereboom was appointed as Vice-Chair. Learn more about the BCDMOA HERE.

Travel Penticton Welcomes New Executive Director

Travel Penticton announced Kevin Pearce as the organization's new Executive Director last week while extending heartfelt thanks to Thom Tischik for his years of dedicated service.

Kevin joins Travel Penticton with over 30 years of tourism experience driving growth and innovation in British Columbia. As the longstanding owner of a world recognized and award-winning tour company, he is adept at creating impactful community initiatives, driving inclusive and sustainable business growth, and is committed to advancing tourism excellence in Penticton.

After serving as Executive Director since 2017, Thom announced his retirement this past summer. He leaves the role being recognized for strengthening partnerships across the region, elevating Penticton’s profile as a four-season destination, and helping the visitor economy navigate rapidly changing industry conditions. 

TIABC's Board and staff extend its heartfelt best wishes to Thom as he embarks on his next chapter. We look forward to collaborating with Kevin in his new role with Travel Penticton.

Job Opportunity | Tourism Richmond

Senior Manager, Business Development

As Senior Manager, Business Development, you’ll lead the team responsible for bringing Richmond’s business events and destination growth strategies to life. You’ll work closely with the VP, Destination & Community to drive measurable outcomes in lead generation, revenue growth, and economic impact while fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing team culture.

You’ll also oversee Richmond’s business events incentive programs, industry partnerships, and major trade initiatives like sales missions, site visits, and familiarization tours.

Learn more about this exciting opportunity and how to apply before Oct. 31 HERE.

Leadership Opportunity on BC’s Rugged West Coast | Tourism Tofino

Tourism Tofino is inviting applications for the position of Executive Director — an exciting opportunity to lead one of British Columbia’s most recognized destination marketing organizations. Based in the iconic coastal community of Tofino, the Executive Director will be responsible for guiding the organization’s strategy, marketing, and destination development initiatives, while supporting a thriving and sustainable tourism economy.

With a mandate to promote Tofino — renowned for its untamed beaches, ancient rainforests, rich Indigenous culture, and world-class outdoor experiences — this role will play a pivotal part in shaping the visitor experience and supporting the long-term vitality of the community.

Chemistry Consulting Group is leading the executive search on behalf of Tourism Tofino and is seeking candidates who bring vision, integrity, and a proven record of destination leadership.

Learn more and APPLY HERE.

2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference

Sponsorship Opportunities NOW AVAILABLE!

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 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference.

Contact us at sponsorship@bctourismconference.ca and learn more about the sponsorship opportunities in the link below.

We look forward to seeing you in Kelowna next year!

What “Using AI at Work” Actually Means: The Growing Divide Between Using AI Tools for Search and Using them for Business Transformation

Most tourism professionals say they use AI, but are they really leveraging its power or just experimenting with free tools? A growing gap is emerging between organizations using AI to answer questions and those using it to run operations, drive bookings, and streamline guest experiences. The difference isn’t just technical—it’s strategic and cultural.

This new article breaks down the AI Adoption Hierarchy and shows why simply “checking the AI box” is no longer enough. If your team isn’t moving beyond basic prompting into structured, scalable use cases, you could be falling behind faster than you realize.

Paddle BC Launches "Safe is Sexy" Campaign

Paddle BC, the destination marketing initiative that promotes

all forms of paddling in British Columbia, has launched the Safe Is Sexy campaign aimed to encourage the use of personal flotation devices and safe paddling practices across the province.

Running until October 22nd, the campaign encourages stand-up paddleboarders to wear inflatable life belts, which are compact devices that combine safety with style and won’t mess with tan lines. Transport Canada recognizes certified left belts as legal personal flotation devices that are meant to be used in the case of an emergency.

• Learn more about the Safe is Sexy campaign HERE.
• To enter the Safe Is Sexy giveaway, paddlers simply have to provide their name and email at paddlebc.ca/safeissexy for a chance to win one of six prizes.

Harbour Air Launches YVR to Tofino Wheeled Route

Harbour Air has announced the launch of its first-ever wheeled flight service from Vancouver to Tofino. The new route from YVR to YAZ Long Beach Airport is part of Harbour Air’s biggest expansion, with new routes and more flights set to roll out across B.C. and beyond over the next year.

The route starts Friday, October 27. Learn more HERE.

Country Music Week Generates Positive Momentum in Kelowna

From September 10 to 13, Kelowna hosted Canada’s biggest week in country music, drawing fans, artists, industry professionals, and media from across the country for a four-day celebration.  While the final tourism and economic impact assessments for CCMA Country Music Week 2025 are still underway, early results paint have delivered a positive picture. Highlights include:

• Hotel occupancy in Kelowna for the week of September 7-14 was up 10.5% year-over-year; this significant increase indicates strong out-of-town attendance.
• The Kelowna Visitor Centre saw a 58% increase in traffic during the event week, as guests sought out local experiences, transportation, and retail products.

Learn more about the positive impacts of the CCMA Country Music Week in Kelowna HERE.

2025 Spirit of Hospitality Lottery

The BC Hospitality Foundation is thrilled to launch its biggest fundraiser of the year: the 7th Annual Spirit of Hospitality Lottery, proudly presented by the Hotel Association of Vancouver and media sponsor CHEK News.

This is an all-Canadian lottery giving you the chance to win unforgettable experiences right here at home while supporting a cause that makes a real difference in the lives of BC’s hospitality and tourism workers who are facing financial crisis due to health challenges.

Learn more HERE and purchase tickets in the link below.

Cybercrime Trends & Evolving Risk Management Strategies

Join Acera Insurance for this valuable webinar on Cybercrime. Cybercrime is growing more sophisticated every year. With insights from our expert panelists, you‘ll leave with a clearer understanding of today‘s cyber risk landscape and actionable steps to safeguard your organization against evolving threats.

Date: October 22

Time: 9:00 am (PDT)

What you’ll learn:

• Emerging cyber threats and real-world lessons
• The most common cyber incidents today
• The legal and regulatory impact of breaches
• Practical strategies to reduce threats
• How cyber insurance fits into risk management

Learn more and reserve your spot HERE.

For North Okanagan Food Businesses | Discover Profitable Food Waste Solutions

Join FoodMesh and BetterTable for an interactive 30-minute, free webinar designed specially for hospitality professionals in the North Okanagan. You’ll discover simple, practical ways to cut waste, save money, and strengthen your connection to the local community.

Why attend?

• Boost profits: Learn proven strategies to reduce waste and maximize your food cost savings.
• Stay ahead of the curve: Get insights on food waste trends, policies, and best practices shaping the industry in the Okanagan and beyond.
• Get inspired by peers: Hear real-world examples from chefs and restaurateurs already making food waste work for them.
• Do good locally: Find out how donating surplus food supports Okanagan residents, while unlocking tax incentives and meeting regulations with ease.

This session is short, engaging, and packed with takeaways you can start using right away in your restaurant, café, or food service operation.

Date: Wednesday, November 5

Time: 2:00 - 2:30 PM PST - Virtual

Learn more and register HERE.

CONFERENCES & SPECIAL EVENTS

Join Us! | 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference

Planning for the 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference has already begun, and you're encouraged to Save the Date for this must-attend conference. BC TIC will be held at the Delta Hotel, Grand Okanagan Resort in Kelowna, March 4–6, 2026.

Stay tuned for updates on registration, conference schedule, travel & accommodation, sponsor opportunities, and programming. More information will be shared on our conference website at bctourismconference.ca shortly.

Northern BC 2025 Tourism Summit

The Northern BC 2025 Tourism Summit, a must-attend event for anyone passionate about the development of a strong tourism sector in Northern British Columbia.

Ready to connect, learn, and lead the future of tourism? The Northern BC 2025 Tourism Summit is your opportunity to be part of the region’s most dynamic gathering of tourism professionals, entrepreneurs, and community changemakers.

Dates: October 15-17

Location: Courtyard by Marriott, Prince George

Learn more and register HERE.

CCCTA Tourism Summit and AGM

Join the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association (CCCT) for an extraordinary event – the annual 2025 Tourism Summit & AGM.

Dates: October 17-19

Location: Quesnel

Join delegates from across the region and all areas of BC tourism to network, gain knowledge and support the tourism industry and economy. The event is designed to educate, provide network opportunities, influence new ideas and recognize our amazing industry leaders here in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast.

Learn more about the Summit and AGM HERE. Registration is now open HERE.

Culinary Tourism Alliance | AGM

We’ll review highlights from this past year and share a look ahead, including our plans and priorities for 2026. This is a great opportunity to hear updates, ask questions, and help shape what’s next for the Culinary Tourism Alliance.

Date: October 20

Time: 11:30 am (PDT)

Why attend?

• Celebrate what we’ve achieved together in 2025
• Understand key financials and organizational performance
• Get a first look at our roadmap and initiatives for 2026
• Engage with leadership and fellow members

Register for the AGM HERE.

Mark Your Calendar | TOTA AGM and Summit

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has announced the dates for the 2025 TOTA AGM & Summit.

Dates: October 22-23

Location: KF Centre for Excellence, Kelowna

Last year's Summit was a sold-out event that brought together tourism industry professionals from around the region for two days to network, engage in industry-specific workshops, and learn from experts. 

Learn more and register HERE.

GreenStep Offering Free Climate Action Workshops in Kelowna

Businesses in Kelowna are invited to join a 4-part virtual Climate Action Training series, delivered in collaboration with the City of Kelowna.

Cohort 2: Starts October 23.

Learn more and register HERE.

Western Ideas Forum & AccomEx

Registration is now open for the inaugural Western Ideas Forum & AccomEx.

Dates: November 3-6

Location: St. Eugene Golf Resort & Casino, Cranbrook

Come join campground, RV park, glamping, and outdoor hospitality operators from across Western Canada for three days of:

• Inspiring speakers and expert-led sessions
• Practical workshops tailored to your business
• Networking opportunities with industry leaders and peers
• An exhibitor showcase featuring products and services designed for your operation

Learn more and register HERE.

B.C. Aviation Council Silver Wings Industry and Scholarship Awards Celebration 2025

The annual Silver Wings Industry and Scholarship Awards Celebration recognizes aviation and aerospace industry colleagues for specific achievements. As well, they disburse over $200,000 through the Aviation and Aerospace Scholarship Awards Program to hard-working students enrolled in aviation and/or aerospace programs in British Columbia. This is the largest scholarship program of its kind in Canada.

You are invited to join in at this inspiring annual celebration for an evening of fine food, live entertainment, an online auction, a 50/50 Draw, a vibrant awards ceremony and unparalleled relationship-building opportunities.

Date: November 14

Location: Vancouver Convention Centre West (Floor 3)

Time: 5:45pm - 10:00pm (PST)

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

Save the Date

Boating BC 2025 Conference: Rocking The Industry – Navigating Disruptive Times

Presented by Mercury Marine, this is the must-attend event for marine professionals across the province — a dynamic two-day experience packed with industry insight, leadership, and valuable networking. We’re also excited to announce our first confirmed speaker: Vaughn Palmer of the Vancouver Sun, returning to share his always-popular perspectives.

Dates: November 18-19

Location: River Rock Casino Resort, Richmond

To learn more about the conference sponsorship opportunities, visit HERE.

TIAC - 2025 Tourism Congress

Tourism is more than travel—it is a tool for unity across Canada. TourismCan celebrates the industry that unites the country through building economies, communities, careers, innovation, and policy. Tourism is the thread that ties Canada together. 

Dates: November 18–20

Location: Hilton Lac-Leamy, Gatineau, Quebec 

Here’s what you can look forward to:

• Engage with industry leaders and stakeholders from across the country 
• Participate in critical discussions on the future of Canadian tourism 
• Recognize and honour the strength, resilience, and ingenuity of Canada’s tourism sector

Learn more and register HERE.

Annual SFI Big Splash Gala, Fundraiser and Policy Conference

During the day, make plans to attend the SFI Annual Industry Policy Conference, held at the Vancouver Convention Centre - West. This annual event is an unique opportunity for those in the sport fishing industry and community to meet, hear from, and exchange perspectives on the issues facing the public fishery with elected officials, public servants.

Date: Friday, November 21

Location: Vancouver Convention Centre – West

This year's theme is Balanced and Sustainable and ticket sales are now open! Early bird tickets are only available until October 31st! 

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

Sport Event Exchange BC 2025

Sport Exchange BC 2025 will be a one-day sport tourism industry forum bringing together BC's destination marketing organizations, municipalities, provincial sport organizations, multi-sport organizations, disability sport organizations, BC-based national sport organizations, sport event rights holders, and venue owners/operators. Designed to strengthen collaboration, build capacity, and spark new opportunities in sport event hosting, this initiative is a first-of-its-kind knowledge exchange and relationship-building event in the province.The event will feature engaging panel discussions, networking sessions, and opportunities to explore partnership models between sport organizations and tourism professionals.

Date: Friday, November 21

Time: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm

Location: Sheraton Vancouver Airport Hotel

The event will feature engaging panel discussions, networking sessions, and opportunities to explore partnership models between sport organizations and tourism professionals. Learn more and REGISTER HERE.

IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism Summit - 2026

Registration is now open for 2026's iteration of the IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism Summit Victoria

Dates: January 25-28

Get ready to explore Aligned action, shared direction, and real progress alongside global changemakers. With a brand-new Workshop Series, immersive case studies, and hands-on tools to take home, IMPACT 2026 will equip you to transform your destination into one that's not just visited, but nurtured.

Learn more and secure your spot HERE.

SAVE THE DATE | 2026 International Indigenous Tourism Conference

The 2026 International Indigenous Tourism Conference (#2026IITC), hosted in partnership with Indigenous Tourism Alberta and Explore Edmonton, will be held on unceded Treaty 6 Territory in Amiskwacîwâskahikan (Edmonton).

Dates: February 17-19

The many Nations that call the area home, including Cree, Saulteaux, Blackfoot, Sioux and Métis People, are excited to welcome you to their territory at this amazing celebration of Indigenous tourism. Save the date! 

SAVE THE DATE | 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference

It's hard to believe the 2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference is behind us! While planning for 2026 won't begin until early fall, we're excited to announce the date and location:

Dates: March 4-6

Location: Delta Hotel, Grand Okanagan Resort, Kelowna

Mark your calendar - we can't wait to see you there and celebrate our incredible industry together!

Save the Date | 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.