A new grant program will provide relief for BC’s tourism sector, which has been largely impacted by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic
The Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport announced a $105-million dedicated relief fund in response to recommendations from the provincial Tourism Task Force. The Task Force’s report includes recommendations in three categories: allocation of emergency funds for businesses and the workforce; acceleration of growth for the tourism sector and enhancing sustainability; and, informing a renewed strategic tourism framework.
In a Dec. 22, 2020 statement, the Ministry of Tourism said the province is committing $100 in relief funding for the tourism sector and $5 million to Indigenous Tourism BC.
“This has been the most challenging year that people working in the tourism sector have ever faced, and while news about vaccines arriving in British Columbia give us reason to be hopeful, we aren’t through this storm yet,” said Melanie Mark, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport.
The $100-million dedicated relief funding for the tourism sector will be delivered through the existing Small and Medium-Sized Business Recovery Grant program.
The ministry said it has simplified the application process and streamlined the criteria, making it easier for all businesses to qualify for grants, particularly those in the hard-hit tourism sector. Tourism businesses will now be eligible for up to $45,000, an increase compared to the previous maximum of $40,000, due to a boost in the additional funds
Adjustments to the Small and Medium-Sized Business Recovery Grant Program have already been implemented and the Indigenous tourism relief grant program will launch early in the New Year.
Brenda Baptiste, chair, Indigenous Tourism BC said this year has tested the resilience of the tourism industry.
“It has been a time for the sector to come together. We thank the province for its ongoing partnership to see Indigenous Tourism BC through to the other side of the impacts of the pandemic,” Baptiste said.
Businesses can learn more about the eligibility criteria and apply online here.
Read the full Tourism Task Force final report and recommendations here.
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