TIABC Industry Leaders Meet with Minister Kang

TIABC hosted an in-person and online roundtable session earlier today with Minister Kang and leaders representing BC’s sector associations. Together, the group focused on how we can strengthen the visitor economy, support operators and grow opportunities across the province by aligning shared priorities that support the government’s strategies.

ICYMI | Province Unveils Look West Strategy Aimed to Grow Key Sectors Including Tourism

The provincial Look West Strategy sets out a 10-year vision to boost B.C.’s economy by expanding key sector, noting tourism being a major pillar. The plan underscores just how essential our industry is, pointing to the more than 125,700 people it employs and the $22 billion in revenue it generates in communities across the province.

These numbers speak to tourism’s far-reaching impact and reinforce why continued investment, thoughtful policy, and strong partnerships are critical. Sustaining this momentum means supporting the businesses, workers, and organizations that make up B.C.’s visitor economy and ensuring they have the tools to thrive in a competitive global market.

Last week, TIABC shared a a letter written to Premier Eby from a wide range of organizations and businesses including TIABC, encouraging the Province to include the Outdoor Recreation and Parks sector as part of its forthcoming economic plan, urging government to make outdoor recreation and parks a cornerstone of British Columbia's economic future. 

• Read the letter to Premier Eby HERE.
• Read the full Look West Strategy HERE.

Canada’s Travel & Tourism Set for Record 2025 Despite Emerging Risks

According to new data from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), Canada’s Travel & Tourism sector is continuing the country's strong growth trajectory and projected to generate nearly $183 billion for the economy in 2025 - its highest contribution on record. Last year, the sector contributed just under $169BN to Canada’s economy and supported 1.7MN jobs.

WTTC’s latest Economic Impact Research (EIR) shows the sector is on track to support 1.8 million jobs this year and highlights how important tourism is to Canada’s workforce and how resilient the industry continues to be. At the same time, WTTC points out that changing global trends and travel habits mean Canada needs to stay ahead of the curve to keep this momentum going.

The data also highlights that further growth, particularly in international markets, must be nurtured with strategic policy and investment.

Read the full press release from the WTTC HERE.

New Job-protected Medical Leave in Effect for Workers

The Province announced today, that workers facing a serious illness or injury are now eligible for up to 27 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave within a 12-month period to receive medical treatment and focus on recovery.

Recent amendments to B.C.’s Employment Standards Act have taken effect, strengthening job protections for employees covered by the Act who are unable to work for at least seven consecutive days due to a significant illness or injury.

To qualify for this leave, employees must provide a medical certificate from a physician or nurse practitioner confirming they are unable to work for medical reasons and specifying the required leave dates.

Learn more about the new job-protected personal illness or injury leave HERE.

Canada Summer Jobs Program | Open for Applications

Apply today to get a head start on hiring for next summer through the Canada Summer Jobs program. This federal initiative supports employers while helping youth aged 15 to 30 gain meaningful, paid summer work experience. By participating, you not only strengthen your team during the busy season but also contribute to developing the next generation of skilled workers equipped for today’s job market.

Public and private sector businesses can apply to receive up to 50% of minimum wage to cover staff costs. Not-for-profits can apply for funding to cover 100% of minimum wage and all associated mandatory employment-related costs.

Learn more and APPLY HERE.

Job Opportunity | Manager, Trade Engagement

Reporting to the Director, Trade & Partnership Marketing, this position is responsible for the strategic planning and implementation of Armstrong Collective’s global trade engagement initiatives, industry, and non-traditional partnerships. This includes creating and delivering a long-term trade engagement strategy for the Armstrong Collective brands Rocky Mountaineer and Canyon Spirit, the management of key account relationships and being the subject matter expert (SME) in relation to all things trade engagement and partnership marketing related.

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

Still Searching for the Perfect Marketing Leader Who Loves the West Coast!

Exciting Opportunity in Beautiful Tofino on Canada’s West Coast!

Chemistry Consulting Group is continuing the search for a standout Director of Marketing for their client, Tourism Tofino — one of BC’s most iconic and inspiring destinations. They are looking for a strategic, creative, and passionate marketing leader who not only excels in brand building and campaign innovation, but who also has a genuine love for the West Coast lifestyle.

If you’re ready to pair your marketing expertise with your passion for destination storytelling — and to help shape the future of tourism in this remarkable coastal community — they would love to hear from you.

The application deadline has been extended, and are accepting applications until December 20. Learn more and APPLY HERE.

REMINDER | EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!

We’re pleased to announce that registration is now open for the 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference. The conference will take place at the Delta Hotels Grand Okanagan Resort, Kelowna, March 4-6, 2026. 

Visit our website to view the 2026 registration fees and to review our updated policies before you start registration. Early bird rates are available with member and non-member pricing options. Full conference registrations include complete access to all conference sessions, workshops, silent auction, welcome reception, and the awards gala. 

Register at our early bird rate by January 14, 2026 to save on your registration!

2026 CONFERENCE PROGRAM

We’re pleased to share a first look at the 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference program, outlining the flow of each day and highlighting special events including the Welcome Reception and the BC Tourism Industry Awards Gala.

Session titles, speakers, and full program details will be announced soon, so keep checking the conference website for updates as the program comes to life!

SUBMIT YOUR AWARD NOMINATIONS

These Awards demonstrate a standard of excellence for operators and employees in the industry, showcasing the province’s best products, services, experiences, and people. We encourage applications from all industry members.

Nomination deadline is Dec. 12th. Nominate today HERE.

NOW ACCEPTING | SILENT AUCTION DONATIONS

We’re pleased to announce that we are now accepting donations for the 2026 Silent Auction. This year, we’ll once again be using Bid Beacon to showcase items and manage bidding during the conference.

If you would like to contribute a silent auction item, please submit your donation through our online form. Learn more and submit HERE.

IN MEMORIAM

Over the past year, our industry has said goodbye to colleagues and friends whose contributions and presence meant so much to our sector. Their loss is felt deeply throughout our community.

During the conference, we will once again honour those who have passed with an In Memoriam slideshow tribute. To ensure we recognize everyone in a thoughtful and meaningful way, we invite you to share the names and details of individuals we should include. Submit HERE.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

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 info@bctourismconference.ca

Celebrating Employee-First Leadership in

BC’s Tourism Industry

go2HR is proud to partner with the Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) to help celebrate the workplaces that put people at the centre of their success. As sponsor of the Employees First Award, go2HR supports TIABC’s commitment to recognizing organizations that prioritize employee well-being.

This award highlights organizations that understand that when teams feel valued, supported, and empowered, everyone benefits. It celebrates workplaces that lead by example and invest in the people who make BC’s visitor experience exceptional.

Nominating an organization is a chance to:

• Highlight its commitment to employee well-being

• Strengthen its reputation as a people-first workplace

• Celebrate the individuals who drive its success

The nomination deadline is December 12, 2025, and the Employees First Award will be presented at the 2026 TIABC Conference Awards Gala on March 5, 2026.

Don’t miss this opportunity to share your organization’s story, celebrate your team, and gain meaningful recognition on a provincial stage.

Osoyoos and South Okanagan-Similkameen Launches its First-Ever

Tourism Master Plan

A first-ever Tourism Master Plan for Osoyoos and the South Okanagan–Similkameen region was unveiled earlier this week following more than two years of extensive research, planning, and community consultation. The Town of Osoyoos was a key partner with Destination Osoyoos in supporting the Tourism Master Plan,

The Tourism Master Plan for Osoyoos and RDOS Areas A & B was developed as a community-driven, grassroots initiative, bringing together local organizations from the arts, culture, tourism, recreation, and business sectors, along with support from local and regional governments.

View the Tourism Master Plan HERE.

BCHA Awards of Excellence and BCHA Summit Early Bird Registration

Help celebrate BC’s outstanding hospitality professionals. The BC Hotel Association is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Awards of Excellence, recognizing exceptional people, teams, and properties across the province. Categories span housekeeping, guest service, culinary excellence, overall accommodations, emerging leaders, and more.  

Submit your nomination by December 18 HERE.

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Registration is now open for the 2026 BCHA Summit, taking place April 14–15 at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre in Nanaimo. Tourism and hospitality professionals from across BC will gather for two days of learning, networking, and industry discussions.

Secure early bird rates and register HERE.

YVR Invites You to Greetings & GIving

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is extending an invitation to Greetings & Giving – YVR’s 15th annual holiday donation event in support of Quest Outreach Society.

This year’s initiative focuses on monetary donations that directly fund gift cards for families to select the groceries, so they can choose the groceries that best meet their needs and help stock Quest’s non-profit markets for the holiday season. The goal is to raise $25,000 to provide holiday meals to 2,000 people in our local communities.   

If you're unable to attend in person, you can still support Quest through the community giving portal: Greetings & Giving. YVR will be matching all eligible monetary donations.  

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, December 10, 2025  

Time: 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (speaking remarks at 11:30 a.m.) 

Location: The Spirit of Haida Gwaii: The Jade Canoe (International Departures - Level 3, YVR) 

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:

• 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.

ORCBC Presents Community of Practice Session

The Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORCBC) is hosting a virtual community practice session, where everyone is welcome.

Date: December 3

The session will dive into how the Outdoor Recreation for Community and Economic Development guide can support outdoor recreation initiatives, community wellbeing and economic development while connecting outdoor recreation champions and practitioners across the province. It is an opportunity to identify opportunities to improve outdoor recreation approaches and to connect and learn from others.

Learn more and register HERE.

Supporting Workplace Mental Health Over the Holidays

The holiday season brings celebration, but it can also bring fatigue, pressure, and emotional strain for tourism & hospitality teams. Long hours, high guest expectations, and limited downtime can take a toll on both employees and leaders. Join go2HR in this free webinar;

Date: Tuesday, December 9

Time: 1:00–2:00 PM (PST)

For practical strategies to support mental wellbeing, maintain team cohesion, and strengthen resilience during the busiest time of year - this is a timely opportunity to help workplaces navigate seasonal stress with care and confidence.

Learn more and register HERE.

CONFERENCES & SPECIAL EVENTS

Save Our Streets Prosper Symposium

Policy Roundtable on Substance Prevention, Education & Recovery

Join PROSPER for it's 2nd annual drug prevention, recovery and policy Summit.

Date: December 1

Time: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Location: Vancouver (location TBA)

Register HERE.

BC Chamber of Commerce | Annual Premier & Cabinet Luncheon

The BC Chamber of Commerce is delighted to welcome Premier David Eby, members of Cabinet and Parliamentary Secretaries to its annual Premier & Cabinet Luncheon, an event that offers business leaders the opportunity to connect with the Executive Council​ of the provincial government.

Date: December 10

Time: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Location: Vancouver (details to be announced)

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

Barkerville Presents Olde-Fashioned Christmas

Barkerville Historic Town & Park is pleased to announce the return of Olde-Fashioned Christmas. This festive weekend remains one of the community’s favourite winter traditions, offering a warm​​ and lively holiday experience in the heart of British Columbia’s most iconic gold rush town.

Dates: December 13 & 14

Barkerville’s Olde-Fashioned Christmas offers a memorable way to experience the historic site during the winter season. Visitors are encouraged to dress warmly and prepare for changing winter conditions along Highway 26. For event details and advance tickets, please visit HERE.

REGISTER TODAY! | TIABC Annual General Meeting

The Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) is inviting members and partners to join us for our Annual General Meeting.

Date: Wednesday, December 17th

Time: 10:30 am (PST) - Virtual

This year’s AGM will be held virtually, providing an opportunity to elect the 2025-2026 Board of Directors, review TIABC’s 2024 financials, and celebrate the accomplishments and milestones achieved over the past year.

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! 

2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference - The Transformative Power of Tourism

Registration is now open for the 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference. Join industry colleagues for this must attend conference.

Dates: March 4-6

Location: Delta Hotel, Grand Okanagan Resort, Kelowna

Be part of the Transformative Power of Tourism and REGISTER TODAY!

BCHA 2026 Summit

The British Columbia Hotel Association invites you to the 2026 BCHA Summit, taking place at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre in Nanaimo.

Dates: April 14-15

The Summit is the must-attend event for BC's hospitality industry, bringing together hoteliers, educators, suppliers, key industry stakeholders, and emerging leaders for thought-provoking sessions, valuable connections, and unforgettable experiences. 

This year's theme — Future Ready: Strategies for a Stronger, Smarter Sector — highlights the people, ideas, and opportunities that will elevate our industry.

Registration is NOW OPEN - Learn more HERE.

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.

Tickets on Sale now for the Culinary Tourism Alliance’s Taste of Place Summit

From Soil to Story

Hosted by the Culinary Tourism Alliance, the Taste of Place Summit is a national gathering bringing together destination leaders, chefs, producers and marketers from across Canada to celebrate and advance culinary and agritourism.

Dates: June 15 & 16, 2026

Location: Westin, Edmonton

Delegates can expect immersive learning journeys, thought-provoking discussions during main stage programming and plenty of networking along the way.

Early bird registration is now open until Dec. 31. Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.