Vancouver- British Columbia is home to breathtaking natural attractions and outdoor recreation experiences that bring the world to our doorstep. Tourism is important to Canada’s economy and creates good jobs in communities, from major city centres to rural and remote areas, to Indigenous communities. Across British Columbia, tourism business owners, operators, and entrepreneurs have ambitious plans and PacifiCan is here to support those ambitions. B.C. is also home to ambitious entrepreneurs who are looking to bring B.C. to the world by diversifying their export markets around the world. This is especially important in today’s changing global economy.
Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced over $4.3 million in PacifiCan funding for 24 organizations to enhance local attractions and bring more visitors to communities across B.C. These projects will strengthen local economies and showcase B.C.’s rich culture, Indigenous history, and beautiful landscape with memorable experiences for residents and visitors to enjoy right here in B.C. Minister Sajjan also announced $500,000 for the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade to help more businesses diversify their sales to new export markets through the Trade Accelerator Program.
As part of today’s announcement, Destination BC will receive $250,000 to launch a global market development program, helping B.C.’s tourism operators attract more international visitors. This initiative will connect local businesses with global travel trade specialists, bringing more visitors to communities across our province and strengthening B.C.’s tourism industry.
Redd Fish Restoration Society will receive $250,000 to create an interactive, interpretive centre in Ucluelet on Vancouver Island. This immersive experience will educate visitors about the region’s watershed and old-growth ecosystems through dynamic exhibits, guided tours, and hands-on conservation activities, promoting sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship.
The Gitanyow Huwilp Society will receive $250,000 to advance the creation of the Gitanyow Reconciliation Trail, a year-round hiking, riding, and sledding route that follows the historical Grease Trail in Northern B.C. This investment will help to establish Gitanyow traditional territory as a premier destination for active tourism and showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Gitanyow Nation.
Today’s tourism investments are being made through the Tourism Growth Program. More details about the organizations receiving funding can be found in the backgrounder here.
“British Columbia is home to world-class tourism attractions and entrepreneurs with ambitious plans to welcome visitors to B.C. and bring more B.C. products to international markets. With spring break around the corner, now is the perfect time to explore all that B.C. has to offer. And with the opportunities in our global marketplace, now is the time to bring more of B.C. to the world. PacifiCan is proud to support initiatives that showcase our region’s rich cultural heritage, drive economic growth, boost exports and create good jobs in our communities.” – Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada
“British Columbia, with its ancient rainforests, bustling cities, and awe-inspiring mountains, is a premier destination for unforgettable adventures that rejuvenate the spirit. Through the Tourism Growth Program, the Government of Canada is supporting a variety of tourism organizations across the province. As we continue to invest in the tourism industry, including Indigenous businesses, we are helping preserve the region’s natural wonders and encouraging strong connections with its cultures and communities.” – Pascale St-Onge, acting Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec