|
Friends of mine own acreage on one of the Gulf Islands with two old houses, three rustic cabins and a couple of outbuildings, most of which are rented to permanent tenants and vacationers.
The property is zoned for both residential and commercial development with the exception of one area that is off-limits. From what I’ve been told, the original documented owner of the land buried his Indigenous wife in a makeshift graveyard because at the time of her death in 1883 she was not welcome to be laid to rest in the island’s cemetery a few hundred metres up the road.
The tiny burial site, which also contains the remains of four other family members, is surrounded by an old wire fence that protects three grave markers and an eroding cement headstone ensconced in moss. Even though the gravesite looks tired and worn, it cannot be legally altered or removed under the BC Heritage Conservation Act (HCA). By way of background, the Act regulates the protection, management and conservation of cultural and heritage sites, of which there are some 64,000 registered sites in the province, the majority of which are of First Nations origin.
Because the HCA is so old, the Province launched a multi-year collaborative effort in 2021 to modernize the Act with goals to protect heritage more effectively, make permitting faster and easier, help communities rebuild quicker after disasters, and strengthen the role of First Nations in decision-making about their own heritage and ancestors. All good intentions to be sure.
A Joint Working Group on First Nations Heritage Conservation, consisting of bureaucrats and members of the First Nations Leadership Council (FNLC), was appointed to ensure the HCA aligns with BC’s Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA). To date there have been two phases of engagement that included more than 100 First Nations and close to 200 organizations representing local governments, heritage advocates, real estate companies, construction firms, resource industries, and tourism, including TIABC.
In the first of two reports on ‘what we heard’ from the engagement sessions, I noted two key points that could have tourism implications:
- Consideration of heritage sites must be done earlier in project and land use planning processes to alleviate potential impacts but also to identify potential conflicts prior to significant investment.
- Scale the levels of protection based on heritage value and site significance.
In the second report, virtually all First Nations that participated in the consultation process cited the lack of recognition of title, rights and ownership of cultural heritage. And because of the connection to the little cemetery I referenced earlier, I also took note of the issues related to First Nations burial sites which are increasingly being disturbed or displaced, leading to a need for greater protections for these sacred places, equal to the protections afforded under the Cemeteries Act.
The Province has asserted that proposed policy direction would not automatically restrict more land from development, nor will it apply to shared decision-making on private property. Frankly, tourism operators heard a similar promise when Land Act Amendments were proposed a couple of years ago and didn’t believe government then either.
At the same time, the tourism sector agrees that revisions to the Heritage Conservation Act are necessary and long overdue to achieve the aforementioned outcomes, and in particular, to align decision-making with DRIPA and create certainty when it comes to process.
Although it won’t be introduced until early next year, the new HCA legislation is likely in draft form already. Still, there is an opportunity for further input through an online survey that can be found through this link. I encourage you to complete the survey and express your ideas and/or concerns before the final phase of engagement concludes.
In the meantime, TIABC continues to gather feedback from members to help inform a brief to be submitted on behalf of the tourism industry that identifies additional areas of concern regarding the Act and recommendations for the committee’s consideration.
Every time I visit my friend’s property, I am drawn to the little cemetery tucked away next to an old, dilapidated shed on a bank high above a creek. To me the site is not an ideal spot for future development anyway, but regardless, stands as a little slice of serenity that appears to have been carefully selected by the original owner to make sure his wife and family would forever rest in peace.
Walt Judas,
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. | | | |
Industry Updates from Minister Valdez
As summer winds down, Honourable Valdez, Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism) has provided a curated list of key developments and initiatives of the federal government's priorities and policies:
New Federal Supports for Small Businesses Impacted by Tariffs
Last week, Minister Valdez joined Prime Minister Carney to announce a new package of supports to help SMEs impacted by tariffs to adapt, invest, and thrive:
- BDC loans expanded: Small businesses impacted by tariffs can now access loans of up to $5 million through the Business Development Bank of Canada — providing the capital needed to manage cash flow and pursue new opportunities.
- $1 billion for SMEs: A Regional Tariff Response Initiative delivered by the Regional Development Agencies will offer flexible financing and new non-repayable contributions for businesses in sectors directly impacted by U.S. tariffs.
- Buy Canadian Policy: A new government-wide approach to procurement will prioritize Canadian suppliers, opening more opportunities for SMEs to win contracts and strengthen domestic supply chains.
Protect, build, and transform Canadian strategic industries
- The federal government is moving forward with broader industrial strategy investments to build a more resilient Canadian economy. A new $5 billion Strategic Response Fund will help firms across sectors diversify and grow. And a re-skilling package will support up to 50,000 workers with more flexible Employment Insurance and training opportunities.
Canada Strong Pass: A Summer Success
- Since its launch, the Canada Strong Pass has driven a 15% increase in visits to national museums and Parks Canada sites, while also leading to tens of thousands of new VIA Rail bookings. Families saved money while discovering Canada, and local restaurants, hotels, and shops benefited from more visitors.
Making life more affordable for Canadians
- As of July 1, the federal government’s new middle-class tax cut is in effect. A two-income family is now saving up to $840 every year.
Improving Service at the CRA
- The Finance Minister has directed the CRA to cut wait times and improve service for families, seniors, and small businesses.
Supporting 2SLGBTQI+ Communities
- In August, Minister Valdez reaffirmed the federal government’s unwavering support for 2SLGBTQI+ Canadians. She highlighted progress under Canada’s first-ever 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan, including $25 million for entrepreneurs, over $75 million invested across 160 projects, and new funding to improve safety and security at Pride events across the country.
Advancing Women’s Economic Security
National Leadership on Gender Equality
- Earlier in the summer, Minister Valdez co-chaired the annual meeting of Federal, Provincial, and Territorial Ministers Responsible for the Status of Women in Yellowknife. Together, ministers reaffirmed their commitment to advancing gender equality and supporting women and gender-diverse Canadians across Canada.
| |
A Message From Guide Outfitters Association BC
Identity Theft - You Are Your Own First Line of Defense
The Guide Outfitters Association of BC (GOABC) CEO Scott Ellis want to advise about the growing threat of cloned websites impersonating legitimate British Columbian outfitters and the immediate threat this issue is having on your business. Here is an excerpt from his message:
These scam websites are convincing. They often use the .com version of your domain, a variation of your business name, or a completely different URL while copying your branding and photos. Unsuspecting hunters are being misled, and in some cases, are sending money to fraudsters posing as you.
This is serious. And while GOABC is taking action where we can, we need you to do your part.
A Three-Pronged Approach
1. Protect Your Own Business
- Secure both the .ca and .com versions of your business name—even if you operate under a different URL.
- Consider purchasing other likely variations or common misspellings.
- Set up a regular routine to check for lookalike sites and report anything suspicious.
- Review your online presence across all platforms and ensure contact info is consistent and clear.
2. GOABC is Working Behind the Scenes
We’ve contacted our key partners - several of whom have already sent alerts to their members, and we’re including a public fraud awareness notice in the Fall issue of Mountain Hunter.
We’ve also created a Website Cloning Response Kit with takedown templates, a Prevention Checklist, and tips to monitor and secure your online presence.
3. We're Educating Hunters, Too - We are urging all hunters to:
1. Talk to their outfitter—a real phone call, not just text or email.
2. Confirm outfitter contact information with GOABC or the appropriate regional association.
3. Be absolutely sure before wiring funds. Once the money is sent, it’s gone.
| |
Restaurants Canada Issue Statement on Premier's Call to Eliminate Temporary Foreign Worker Program
Restaurants Canada has expressed concern regarding Premier David Eby’s comments on the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) program, stressing there is a lack of understanding about the reality of the foodservice industry in British Columbia.
Restaurants Canada agrees that there are changes to be made to the TFW program in order to ensure it supports Canadian and foreign workers and aligns with our economic needs, however, those changes should not be made without consulting the businesses they will impact and taking into account the gaps that exist in Canada’s labour market.
BC’s foodservice industry generates more than $20 billion in economic activity, representing nearly 5% of the province's GDP and employs nearly 183,000 British Columbians, including 68,000 youth, representing one in five youth jobs.
As noted in the news release from Restaurants Canada earlier this week, there are geographic areas and skill gaps that make it necessary for some foodservice businesses to recruit temporary foreign workers. TFWs represent just 3% of the total foodservice workforce in Canada, but without those critical workers, many foodservice businesses would not be able to operate.
TIABC is working alongside restaurant, hotel and other sector partners to lobby both the province and federal governments to not only retain but improve the TFW program.
Read the full statement from Restaurants Canada HERE.
| |
go2HR Release August 2025 Labour Market Update
go2HR have released the latest labour market statistics for BC and note BC’s tourism and hospitality industry saw a notable employment decline in August, following two months of summer growth.
Key Highlights
- Employment decreased by 6.8% to 335,500 jobs, 14,750 below August 2019 levels.
- The unemployment rate decreased from 4.2% in July to 2.3% in August, below the 3.2% recorded in August 2019.
Regional Trends
- Employment declined across all regions except the Kootenays, which rose above pre-pandemic levels.
- Cariboo, Lower Mainland, Thompson Okanagan, Northern BC, and Vancouver Island regions all remain below 2019 benchmarks.
Sector Performance
- Employment decreased across the Food and Beverage, Recreation and Entertainment, and Transportation and Travel sectors.
- Accommodation registered modest gains, becoming the only sector above pre-pandemic employment levels.
For detailed monthly updates and regional breakdowns, visit go2HR’s Employment Tracker HERE.
| |
Competition Bureau to Study Competition in Financing for Small and Medium Businesses
Access to competitive financing is critical to enabling small and medium-sized enterprises (SME's) success and growth, thus, the Competition Bureau is consulting Canadians as it prepares to launch a market study into the state of competition in the lending sector for SME's in Canada.
SMEs account for more than 98% of Canadian employers. They drive economic growth by investing, innovating and putting competitive pressure on larger businesses.
As a first step, the Bureau is inviting interested parties to review the consultation paper and share their views on the proposed terms of reference for the market study by October 3, 2025. This is an opportunity for Canadians to help shape the study’s scope and methodology.
Learn more including the review of the consultation paper and share your views HERE.
| |
BC Groups Mark Five-Year Anniversary of Old Growth Strategic Review
Five years since the release of the independent Old Growth Strategic Review (OGSR) Report, 88 diverse groups, together with the Union of BC Indian Chiefs, are sounding the alarm about BC’s lack of progress on one of the Report’s key recommendations: enacting a new law for biodiversity and ecosystem health.
The groups released an open letter this week, previously sent to the Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship in March 2025, which calls on the government to deliver on its stated commitment to prioritize biodiversity and ecosystem health in all government decision-making across all sectors and to legislate this priority. Frustration with BC’s inaction prompted today’s release.
The 88 signatories, together with the Union of BC Indian Chiefs are renewing their call for BC to finalize the draft Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health Framework and co-develop a corresponding law with First Nations. This would ensure resource development moves forward within a clear ecological framework, creating certainty for communities, First Nations, industry and future generations.
- Read the open letter to Honourable Randene Neill, Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship HERE.
- Read the media release from the BC Groups HERE.
| |
CLIA Releases Annual Environmental Technologies and Practices Report
TIABC member Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has released its annual Environmental Technologies and Practices (ETP) report, providing a profile of the CLIA-member oceangoing cruise line fleet and highlights environmental technologies in use by CLIA-member ocean-going cruise lines, which comprise more than 90% of the cruise
sector.
This year’s report shows continuous and measurable progress by CLIA-member cruise lines as they advance an ambitious environmental agenda—from testing and piloting biofuels, to investing in fuel-flexible engines, to the increasing use of lower emissions fuels, and maximizing energy-efficiency measures.
To view the summary chart of results, please go to THIS LINK.
| |
Iconics Destination Development Strategies
Now Available
Destination BC has developed destination development strategies for three of BC’s Iconic brands: Rainforest to Rockies, The Great Wilderness, and Valleys & Vineyards.
These strategies aim to enhance existing visitor experiences and inspire new ones—from improved signage and storytelling to festivals, events, and more—all designed to showcase what makes each place truly iconic.
Coming soon:
- Birthplace of Adventure—strategy in development
- Nature’s Heartland and The Infinite Coast—launching spring 2026
These long-term strategies will help shape the future of tourism in BC, connecting visitors more meaningfully with the province’s diverse landscapes and communities.
| |
FIFA World Cup 26™: Visa Pre-Sale Lottery Now Open!
Those in possession of a Visa credit card can now enter an exclusive pre-sale lottery for FIFA World Cup 26 tickets. The pre-sale portal is now open until September 19th at 8am.
- Entry period now open via THIS LINK
- Tickets will start at USD $60 for group-stage matches
- Information on additional phases also available
The first ticket draw entry period for the FIFA World Cup 26™ is now open at FIFA.com/tickets.
Applicants who are successful in the lottery will be notified by email before September 29th, receiving a dedicated time and date slot in October to purchase their tickets. Learn more HERE.
| |
BCLCA Executive Director Joss Penny
Announces Retirement
It is with both anticipation and gratitude that Joss Penny, Executive Director of the BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association (BCLCA) has announced his retirement effective at the end of this year.
Joss has dedicated much of my time to supporting an often overlooked yet vital part of British Columbia’s tourism landscape: camping and small resort operations, serving as a voice for this sector and championing positive changes since 2007.
Joss has has been part of and led many accomplishments and milestones and has also been an active member of the TIABC Policy Committee since 2021, assisting in advancing provincial tourism policy. The TIABC Board of Directors extend our best of wishes to Joss as he embarks on his retirement journey.
| |
Now Hiring: Executive Director – BC Lodging & Campgrounds Association (BCLCA)
The BC Lodging & Campgrounds Association (BCLCA) is seeking a dynamic Executive Director to lead their not-for-profit trade association. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of BC’s independently owned lodging and campground/RV park sector.
As Executive Director, you’ll provide strategic leadership, strengthen advocacy, grow membership, oversee events and marketing programs, and manage finances and staff.
Location: British Columbia (hybrid) or remote (Canada-wide)
Full-time | Salary: $95,000–$105,000 | Flexible benefits
Applications are open until September 30. Learn more and apply by sending your resume and cover letter to office@bclca.com. Learn more about the opportunity HERE.
| |
Please 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.
We look forward to seeing you in Kelowna next year!
| |
EPISODE #40 - Michael J. Balllingall
Meet Michael J. Ballingall, Senior Vice President of Big White Ski Resort Ltd., as he is welcomed by TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas for a dynamic conversation on hospitality, ski tourism, and the future of winter recreation in BC.
Michael shares his journey from Winnipeg to Jasper Park Lodge and eventually to the Okanagan, where he helped shape Big White into a world-class destination. He reflects on lessons learned in hospitality, his time working abroad in Australia, and the unique attributes that make Big White stand out—including its legendary champagne powder and close proximity to Kelowna’s international airport.
Michael also discusses the challenges of red tape, the need to attract new generations of skiers, and the importance of infrastructure and air access in keeping BC’s ski industry globally competitive.
| AN AI MOMENT WITH PETER PILARSKI | |
Welcome back to our 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.
The Two-Front Challenge: How AI is Reshaping Every Business & What Business Leaders Should Do About It
"Every business leader today is facing a perfect storm. Chronic labor shortages, tight budgets, and the relentless pressure to innovate have created an environment where simply maintaining the status quo is a losing strategy. At the same time, a new era of artificial intelligence has arrived, presenting a powerful, two-front challenge that is reshaping not just industries, but the very nature of work itself.
This challenge isn’t about a single choice between two paths. It’s about navigating both simultaneously: implementing AI internally to improve operations, and adapting your external online presence to ensure your business can be found and recommended by a new generation of AI-powered search engines. Both require a critical, foundational effort that is often overlooked but is the key to unlocking AI’s full potential."
Learn more in the link below:
| |
Tourism Nanaimo Launches ‘Not A Resort Town’ Campaign
Earlier this week, Tourism Nanaimo unveiled its new fall campaign, Not A Resort Town, as a reminder that there is no off-season in the Nanaimo Region. The campaign breaks away from “resort town” clichés and leans into the grit-meets-cozy charm of the area during the fall season.
The campaign is a collaborative initiative between community partners to promote activities and attractions in the region and has been launched on a local, provincial and national level to engage locals and attract travellers to the region.
| |
Help Protect Prideaux Haven in Desolation Sound
The property in Prideaux Haven includes green forests reaching down to almost 1 kilometre of shoreline. It borders Desolation Sound Marine Provincial Park and faces the East Redonda Island Ecological Reserve, meaning its protection will directly strengthen an existing network of conservation lands.
The BC Parks Foundation has secured an agreement to purchase and protect Prideaux Haven, and they’re raising $1.25 million to conserve this beautiful place by September 29, 2025. The Wilson 5 Foundation has generously agreed to match every dollar you donate!
Help protect this special place forever. Learn more and donate HERE.
| |
Dream Wellness Vacation Contest to Nimmo Bay Now Open!
Wellness Travel BC is thrilled to announce their third-year partnership with BC Lottery Corporation, and retail partner Pattison Food Group and their More Rewards program, with a chance to win a spectacular dream vacation to Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort worth $30,000!
Scan your More Rewards card and purchase a $10 Big Jackpot Pack or $22 More Rewards Pack at Lotto Express lanes at Save-On-Foods, Urban Fare, PriceSmart Foods, Buy-Low Foods, Quality Market or Nesters Market throughout British Columbia to automatically be entered for a chance to win this Wellness Travel BC dream vacation!
The contest will run throughout British Columbia and run until October 15, 2025. View full contest details HERE.
| |
Submit Your Photos to the Go Fish BC Photo Contest
Categories
- B.C. Fishing Landscapes
- Fishing Buddies
- Fishing Firsts
Prizes
- First ($300) and second place ($150) prizes will be awarded for each category.
How to Enter
- Fill out the entry form and attach your best freshwater fishing photos for your chance to win cash prizes.
Entries close October 31st at 11:59 PM PT. Contest open to legal residents of Canada, except residents of Quebec. Learn more and enter the contest 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.
| | |
BACKCOUNTRY LODGES OF B.C.
Backcountry Lodges of BC (BLBCA) is a member directed association of privately owned lodge operations, located throughout the major mountain ranges of British Columbia. The Association supports member lodges in the areas of safety, marketing, operations, and government regulations as it strives to position the backcountry of BC as one of the most rewarding adventure travel destinations in the world.
Learn more about Backcountry Lodges of B.C. HERE.
Photo Credit: Back Country Lodges of B.C. / Valkyr Adventures
| | |
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.
NEW! Associate Member Category
If you’re a tourism operator and already an active member of another sector association or DMO and cannot afford a full membership in TIABC, consider supporting us by becoming a TIABC Associate. For a nominal annual fee you’ll receive streamlined benefits and opportunities, including adding your voice to the conversation about the future of our sector.
Contact info@tiabc.ca for more information, visit our website HERE or the link below.
| | |
|
The Consumer Journey: Bringing BC’s Iconic Destination Brands to Life
Join Destination BC for an exclusive virtual event showcasing the full consumer launch of our Iconic Destination Brands across the global travel ecosystem.
Date: Thursday, September 18
Time: 10:00 am (PDT)
In this session, we’ll explore how the Iconic brands are coming to life across key touchpoints in the consumer journey. You’ll get a look at the evolution of the Super, Natural British Columbia® brand and the Let the Outside In creative platform, our 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 and REGISTER HERE.
| |
WORTHshop: Mental Health, Burnout, Boundaries & Recovery
What would change if we talked about what’s really going on at work? This session with Kimberly Flear (Founder, Last Call Coaching) explores how pressure, performance, and perfectionism show up across the visitor economy, and how we can interrupt the cycle with compassion, boundaries, and recovery-informed leadership. Expect real talk, practical tools, and simple shifts that can create psychologically safe, resilient teams. All are welcome.
Date: September 18 | 12 pm
Location: Virtual & Vancouver
Learn more and REGISTER HERE.
| |
Destination Dialogues 2025 | Rethinking Experience Development: From Ideation to Export Ready
Join Destination Canada for a free 90-minute session to explore how destinations, businesses, and community leaders can develop regenerative, Indigenous tourism experiences in rural, remote, and northern areas of Canada.
Date: October 8
Time: 9:00 am (PDT)
This session is tailored for tourism and destination development professionals in Canada. It will share best practices in rural experience development, leaving you informed, inspired and empowered to create regenerative travel experiences deeply rooted in your community.
This year's session theme will focus on Indigenous tourism in collaboration with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada.
Learn more and register HERE.
| |
Implementing Psychological Health & Safety in the Workplace
How do you tackle workplace stress, bullying, or burnout before they escalate? Join go2HR for a practical session on implementing Psychological Health & Safety in you workplace.
Date: October 9
Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am (PDT)
Learn how to identify common psychological hazards in the Tourism & Hospitality industry and create a culture where employees feel safe speaking up.
Learn more and register HERE.
| | | CONFERENCES & SPECIAL EVENTS | |
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.
Learn more, including how to participate and purchase tickets HERE.
| |
Greater Victoria Harbour Authority AGM
Join the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA) for their AGM. This year’s meeting is virtual. No need to RSVP. Everyone is welcome. Review the highlights from the 2024-2025 fiscal year and learn about GVHA’s plans for the harbour. If you can’t attend, a recording will be available on the GVHA website by October 3.
Date: September 29
Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m (Virtual)
If you have questions for our leadership team, please email them to the GVHA communications team in advance. Questions will also be accepted via chat during the meeting.
| |
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.
| |
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.
| |
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.
Early bird registration extended until Sept. 12. 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. Early bird registration ends Sept. 15.
| |
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!
| |
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
Early-bird registration is open until August 13, 11:59 pm. Learn more and register 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.
| | | |
|
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
| | | | |
