Thursday, March 6, 2025
British Columbia boasts stunning natural attractions and world-class outdoor recreation, drawing visitors from around the globe. Tourism plays a vital role in Canada’s economy, creating quality jobs in communities ranging from bustling city centers to rural, remote, and Indigenous regions. Across the province, tourism business owners, operators, and entrepreneurs have ambitious plans, and PacifiCan is here to help turn those visions into reality.
B.C. is also home to innovative entrepreneurs working to expand the province’s global reach by diversifying export markets. This effort is particularly crucial in today’s evolving global economy.
Today, the Honourable 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. This investment will enhance local attractions, boost tourism, and strengthen economies across B.C. By showcasing the province’s rich culture, Indigenous history, and breathtaking landscapes, these projects will create unforgettable experiences for both residents and visitors.
Minister Sajjan also announced $500,000 in funding for the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade to support the Trade Accelerator Program, helping businesses diversify into new export markets.
Key Tourism Investments
- Destination BC will receive $250,000 to launch a global market development program, connecting B.C.’s tourism operators with international travel trade specialists. This initiative will attract more global visitors and strengthen the tourism industry across the province.
- Redd Fish Restoration Society will receive $250,000 to develop an interactive interpretive center in Ucluelet, Vancouver Island. This hands-on experience will educate visitors about local watersheds and old-growth ecosystems through dynamic exhibits, guided tours, and conservation activities, promoting sustainable tourism.
- Gitanyow Huwilp Society will receive $250,000 to advance the development of the Gitanyow Reconciliation Trail, a year-round hiking, riding, and sledding route following the historic Grease Trail in Northern B.C. This project will establish Gitanyow traditional territory as a premier active tourism destination while celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Gitanyow Nation.
These tourism investments are part of the Tourism Growth Program, helping to drive economic development and enhance visitor experiences throughout British Columbia. More details on the funded organizations can be found in the backgrounder below.
“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.” -The Honourable 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.”-The Honourable Pascale St-Onge, acting Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec.
“The travel trade plays a key role in converting global interest in British Columbia into bookings that directly support export-ready businesses in every corner of the province, while helping visitors experience all that BC has to offer. This new PacifiCan funding will allow Destination BC to strengthen connections between our tourism operators and global travel trade specialists, bringing more visitors to more communities, creating jobs, and driving long-term growth for BC’s visitor economy.”-Meredith Moll, Director of Partner and Market Development, Destination BC
“This investment marks a key milestone in developing a sustainable tourism industry that honors Gitanyow’s culture, empowers our people, and strengthens our economy. With this support, we can create authentic experiences that showcase our heritage while ensuring long-term benefits for our community and future generations.”-Joel Starlund/Sk’a’nism Tsa ‘Win’Giit, Gitanyow Huwilp Society
We are deeply grateful for the support of the Tourism Growth Program, which is helping turn this 30-year dream into reality. The wheels are in motion to establish British Columbia’s first-ever habitat restoration interpretive centre. In collaboration with local nuučaanuł communities, artists, community groups, and knowledge holders, we look forward to bringing this visionary project to life.-Megan Francis, Director of Outreach and Education, Redd Fish Restoration Society
“Trade diversification is more important than ever. The Trade Accelerator Program equips small and medium sized businesses with the knowledge, networks, and strategies needed to break into high-growth international markets. Today’s announcement will drive innovation, attract investment, and strengthen our local economy at a critical time for B.C. businesses as they seek opportunities beyond our borders to diversify their exports.” -Bridgitte Anderson, President and CEO of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
