Have Your Say | Help Shape BC's Climate Future

The Province is currently reviewing its CleanBC programs to ensure they are effectively reducing emissions, making life more affordable, and supporting a strong economy. To support their efforts, people in British Columbia are invited to provide feedback about CleanBC.

This is an opportunity for tourism interest holders, communities, and individuals to share insights on how climate action can support sustainable growth and resilient communities. The review is assessing how well CleanBC is working, where improvements could be made and how its programs affect people, communities and the economy.

You are encouraged to participate, as your voice matters. Public engagement is open until July 18th, 2025. Learn more HERE.

Destination Canada Release Business Events Legacy & Impact Study

Destination Canada has released its latest Legacy & Impact Study (Year Two) - a ground breaking initiative that spotlights the beyond-tourism benefits of business events.

The latest report includes case studies and delivers insights that are reshaping how the global business events community thinks about legacy, how lasting legacies extend far beyond financial benefits, and what it really takes to design meetings that will leave a lasting impression.

Read the full report HERE.

Chief Frank Antoine Appointed to WSTHA

Advisory Board

Congratulations are in order to Chief Frank Antoine of the Bonaparte Indian Band who has been appointed to the Advisory Board of the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards (WSTHA). His new role signals a strong international recognition of the importance of Indigenous voices in shaping sustainable and regenerative travel practices worldwide.

Cheif Antoine, who also co-founded Moccasin Trails, a Kamloops-based Indigenous-owned tourism company, has long championed cultural education and community-led travel experiences. His appointment is not just a milestone for Canada, but for Indigenous communities globally seeking to influence the future of tourism in a way that respects tradition, land, and people.

Read the full announcement, including learning more about how Chief Antoine has been bridging the gap between tradition and innovation HERE.

World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards 2025

Awards Now Open for Entry

The World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards 2025 are now open for entry. Entries are free of charge until June 25th.

The Awards honour individuals, organizations and destinations leading the way in sustainability, community impact and environmental responsibility across the global travel and hospitality sector.

Thirty categories covering all sectors of sustainable travel and tourism have been selected by the Awards Advisory Board of experts (see story above) to reflect the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and net positive framework of People, Planet, Place, Prosperity and Partnerships.

Learn more including how to apply HERE.

Heritage BC Deliver 2024 Annual Report

Heritage BC has released its 2024 Annual Report, which focuses on highlights and achievements of the organization.

Heritage BC takes pride in collaborating closely with

organizations to provide funding and support for heritage

conservation. They also focus on building community capacity through online resources that cover a wide range of heritage-related topics, including reconciliation, values-based

community consultation, and the promotion of best practices in heritage preservation.

Read the full report HERE.

West Coast Joint Press Release - Urging Campers to Reserve Sites

at Authorized Campgrounds

A joint press release recently issued by industry leaders on behalf of citizens of the West Coast is asking all overnight vehicle and tent campers to make a reservation at an authorized campground before arriving on the West Coast, and to only camp at authorized campgrounds.

It was noted in the press release that the West Coast experiences a high level of illegal and backroad camping. The disrespectful behaviours of some users have had a negative impact on Indigenous territorial lands and on highly sensitive ecological areas, including local aquifers. In addition, with some of the warmest and driest summers on recent record, unauthorized camping has also contributed to an increase in wildfire risk, which puts pressure on the much-needed first responders and threatens generations of conservation efforts.

Patrols on the West Coast will be communicating regulations and respectful camping practices, and where needed, they will be issuing tickets or fines.

Input Needed | Culinary Tourism Alliance

As the Culinary Tourism Alliance (CTA) plans their 2026 marketing campaigns, they want to ensure they are promoting your business in the regions that matter most to you.

The CTA will be aligning with Destination Canada’s target segments—Refined Globetrotters and Culture Seekers—and working across several channels to drive meaningful visitation.

Please take 5 minutes to complete the short survey by July 15th and let the CTA know who you're trying to reach. Your input will help craft campaigns that tell your story and connect with the right audiences.

Free Whale-Safe Boating Course Now Available

Calling all boaters in coastal BC—whether you paddle, sail, or motor, it's time to make the water safer for everyone, including marine mammals.

The Whale-Safe Boating Course is NOW available! This free online course gives recreational boaters the knowledge they need to be safe, legal, and responsible on the water.

You’ll learn:

• The laws that protect whales and other marine wildlife
• Best practices for safe boating around marine mammals
• The reasons behind why these practices matter

Bonus: The first 100 participants to complete the course will receive a free Whale Warning Flag—a signal to others that whales are in the area and to heighten vigilance. Complete the course and receive a certificate of completion—perfect for showing your commitment to marine safety and wildlife protection.

Learn more including how to register HERE.

Job Opportunities | Destination Vancouver

Destination Vancouver is seeking dynamic, ambitious, collaborative, and fun individuals to join their high performing team.

• Market Manager, International
• Manager, M&C Sales, Canada
• Manager, Meeting & Convention Sales, Eastern US, Corporate
• Research Analyst
• Marketing Production Specialist  
• Sales Associate, Meetings & Conventions

Learn more about these exciting opportunities including how to apply HERE.

Now more than ever, it's time to celebrate the beauty, energy, and unforgettable experiences found right here at home.

Would you like to be part of our weekly Postcards from BC feature? Send a photo of you enjoying a BC destination to deborah@tiabc.ca.

Welcome back to the new bi-monthly feature with Peter Pilarski, Founder of the Tourism AI Network. Peter shares his expertise to demystify the AI landscape and provide essential understanding, helping us to simplify technology, embrace innovation, and navigate the exciting world of AI.

Tourism Leaders: Help Us Build the AI Tool You Actually Need

Marketing. Guest communications. Reports. More reports. Repeat. If that sounds like your reality, we get it—and we’re building something to help.

It’s called TourismOps AI, and it’s designed specifically for tourism operators and DMOs working with lean teams, tight budgets, and high expectations. But before we build more, we want to talk to the people who really know what’s needed—you!

Two Ways To Provide Input:

1. We’re booking 45-minute, no-pressure interviews with me—just a conversation to understand what would actually make your day-to-day easier. Pick a time that works for you → HERE
2. If you can’t book a call, take 4 minutes to share your insight through our quick survey.

• Operators (Lodges, Resorts, Tour Companies) | Take the operator survey → HERE
• DMOs & Regional Tourism Leaders | Take the DMO survey → HERE

Everyone who provides input will be entered to win a $100 Visa Gift Card. 

Elk River Access Improvements Project Delivers a Blueprint for Sustainable Tourism and Economic Growth

In 2020, Kootenay Rockies Tourism received $2.3M to support the recovery of the tourism sector as part of the Province of BC’s StrongerBC Plan Targeted Regional Tourism Development Initiative (TRTDI) in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Kootenay Rockies Tourism identified a set of high-impact infrastructure projects that could help accelerate destination development, create jobs, and strengthen the tourism economy using this funding stream - the Elk River access improvements rose to the top of the list.

Tourism Fernie served as the project management lead that included coordinating with landowners and navigating land-use agreements to working with contractors and guiding environmental assessments. This initiative also set the stage for future tourism planning along the Highway 3 Corridor Destination Development Strategy, reinforcing the Elk Valley as a premier recreation destination. The project supports long-term visitor dispersion, encourages off-peak season tourism, and strengthens the region’s positioning as a world-class nature-based experience year-round.

Learn more about the Elk Valley Access Improvement Project HERE.

Phase Two of "For the Whales" Initiative Launched

4TVI (Tourism Vancouver Island), the North Island Marine Mammal Stewardship Association, and the Pacific Whale Watch Association are partnering for the second phase of the For the Whales initiative.

First launched in 2024, "For The Whales" aims to enhance awareness around responsible marine mammal viewing throughout the Vancouver Island Region, while also recognizing stewardship efforts that exceed the requirements of Canadian marine mammal viewing laws and regulations. 

Through tools like “Sentinel Actions” and the “Whale Warning Flag,” the initiative promotes best practices and educates boaters and visitors about marine conservation.

Learn more about this initiative HERE.

Fortis BC: Small Business Engagement Program Information Sessions

GreenStep Solutions, in partnership with FortisBC, is hosting a webinar to introduce the FortisBC Energy-Saving Support for Small Businesses program.

This program is tailored to help small businesses implement energy-saving strategies, reducing operational costs and environmental impact.

In addition to the webinar, professionally designed marketing materials will be provided to organizations that choose to support this program through their platforms.

• July 10 at 10:00 am (PDT)

CONFERENCES & SPECIAL EVENTS

23rd Annual Coast Hotels Shuhachi Naito Golf Classic

Registration for the 23rd Annual Coast Hotels Shuhachi Naito Golf Classic is nopen.

Date: Thursday, July 10

Location: Tsawwassen Springs Golf Club, Delta

You’ll find the event registration form attached to this email.

This year’s tournament will kick off at 12:00 PM with a shotgun start and follow a Texas Scramble format—guaranteeing a day full of friendly competition and great fun on the course.

We’re proud to once again support the ALS Society of BC and the Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre as this year’s beneficiaries.

Learn more and register HERE.

BC Hospitality Foundation | Tee Up for Two Unforgettable Golf Events

Join the BC Hospitality Foundation for two premier golf events this summer—each offering an incredible day of competition, camaraderie, and hospitality at its finest. Whether you're in Vancouver or Victoria, these tournaments promise an unmatched experience on the greens. i

Mark Your Calendars:

• July 17| 15th Annual Vancouver Golf Tournament | Tsawwassen Springs
• August 20| 9th Annual Victoria Golf Tournament | Olympic View Golf Club

Visit HERE to learn more and to book!

Diverse Abilities Discovery Fair | Inclusive Hiring Starts Here

Looking for fresh ways to build an inclusive, skilled, and people-first team? This event flips the script on hiring — and puts Tourism & Hospitality potential front and centre.

Date: August 8

Time: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm (PDT)

Location: Vancouver Convention Centre

Hosted by the Tourism Workforce Accessibility Clinic and the Vancouver Convention Centre, the Diverse Abilities Discovery Fair invites you to connect with job seekers who are often overlooked in traditional recruitment.

Register by email HERE.

19th Annual Partners In Tourism Invitational Golf Tournament

The Partners in Tourism Invitational Golf Tournament is a fundraising event organized by Partners in Tourism to support future generations of tourism professionals. The tournament raises funds through various means, including sponsorships and donations, which are then used to provide scholarships and awards to students and programs in the tourism and hospitality industry. 

Date: Thursday, August 28

Location: Fairmont Chateau Whistler Golf Club

Learn more including how to register and how to donate HERE.

Wine Capital Weekend Returns to Oliver!

The Oliver Tourism Association is thrilled to announce that Wine Capital Weekend will return for another unforgettable celebration. As the Wine Capital of Canada, Oliver welcomes locals and visitors alike to experience three days of wine, craft beverages, food, live music, team competitions, and family-friendly fun.

Dates: September 19-21

The weekend will once again feature:

• Kick-Off Party at District Wine Village – This year’s musical act will be GLASS TIGER
• Cask & Keg Festival – A celebration of craft beer, cider, and spirits featuring delicious eats, live entertainment, yard games, a family zone, and the crowd-favourite Beer Olympics.
• Festival of the Grape – The South Okanagan’s premier wine tasting event returns for its 26th year.

Early-bird deadline for tickets is June 30th! Learn more, including how to participate and purchase tickets HERE.

4TVI | 2025 Vancouver Island Stewardship Summit

You are invited to the 4TVI Vancouver Island Stewardship Summit. The 2025 program will focus on the efforts of stewardship through destination management and collaboration. Speakers will provide tangible, inspiring presentations for attendees. The full day event will also include a State of the Region presentation.

Date: October 2-3

Location: Coast Bastion, Nanaimo 

Registration is now open. 

Early Bird Registration (until July 31): $199 + GST

General Registration $299 = GST

Learn more and register HERE.

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.

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. 

Stay tuned for more details, including registration and speaker updates.

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. Early bird tickets go on sale in early September — stay tuned!

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, 2026.

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, 2026

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, 2026

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.