NDP MLA Brenda Bailey says tourism grants will help fund local events in Vancouver
VANCOUVER – New Democrat MLA Brenda Bailey says that local events in Vancouver will benefit from provincial tourism funding.
“Whether it’s the adrenaline rush of watching international sports or the buzz of seeing a film premiere, Vancouverites are passionate about the world-class events in our city,” said Brenda Bailey, MLA for Vancouver-False Creek. “I’m thrilled that we’re able to support these events once again and bring residents and visitors back together in 2023.”
The Province has provided funding to nearly 100 organizations through its Tourism Events Program (TEP) to build B.C.’s reputation as an events destination and increase visitation.
In Vancouver, 23 local events are receiving funding from the program. This includes:
- HSBC Canada Sevens, $200,000
- BMO Vancouver Marathon, $200,000
- Just for Laughs Vancouver, $125,000
- Vancouver International Film Festival, $125,000
- Honda Celebration of Light, $125,000
- Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival, $58,626
The Province announced $4.8 million for the Tourism Events Program in April this year, marking the return of TEP after a two-year absence due to the global pandemic. TEP funding supports a wide range of tourism experiences, including arts, cultural, or internationally recognized sporting competitions, bolstering awareness of the event, attracting additional overnight visitors and increasing tourism benefits to communities. The Province has provided over $18 million in TEP funding since 2016, supporting 317 events.
TEP grant amounts are for eligible activities that amplify the event’s provincial, national, and international marketing reach.
Learn More:
Provincial News Release: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2022TACS0049-001676
For information on the Tourism Events Program: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/tourism-immigration/tourism-resources/tourism-funding-programs/tourism-events-program
To Learn about the Strategic Framework for Tourism 2022 – 2024:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/tourism-immigration/tourism-resources/tourism-framework.