From Rock Creek to the Rockies: Canada Invests in Southern Interior Tourism

Tourism in British Columbia is a revenue generator for the province to the tune of more than $13 billion per year.

Supporting this business, the tourism industry in B.C. employs over 80,000 people across more than 16,000 businesses.

These figures highlight why the Canadian government is investing into B.C. tourism.

The latest round of federal funding targets the province’s Southern Interior region with $2 million from the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada as part of its Federal Tourism Growth Strategy.

“From majestic mountains to captivating coastlines, British Columbia has what tourists want,” commented federal tourism minister Soraya Ferrada.

The $2M PacifiCan investment is spread across 14 regional organizations operating in the tourism space, according to an official statement from the government.

This includes the Black Jack Ski Club in Rossland receiving $250,000 to enhance the accessibility of its day lodge, expand its equipment rental service, and install interpretive signage. It also includes the Columbia Valley Greenways Trail Alliance receiving $250,000 to improve a four-kilometre section of the hiking and biking trail network in the Columbia Valley.

The City of Kelowna gets $174K to expand air service at Kelowna International Airport and promote travel during the shoulder season, while Kartplex in Oliver gets $185K to enhance its race-karting experience with new tracks, lighting, and simulators.

Along Highway 3, Kootenay Rockies Tourism will apply $110,000 toward a marketing campaign to help attract more visitors to 20 rural communities. And a sum of $19,000 will go to the Trails to the Boundary Society to enhance its guided bike tours in Rock Creek.

“The Southern Interior of British Columbia is home to world-class tourism attractions that showcase the stunning natural beauty and rich history and culture of our province,” stated federal minister Harjit Sajjan.