NEW PROGRAM AIMS TO “SPARK” INNOVATIVE TOURISM IDEAS IN THE CARIBOOCHILCOTIN COAST
“Our thoughts continue to be with communities across British Columbia who have been impacted by recent weather-induced emergencies. As the current provincial state of emergency will remain in effect until December 28, and in the best interest of the businesses and entrepreneurs in the region, we are extending the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast “Spark” program application deadline until February 18, 2022. We hope the program extension will allow impacted tourism entrepreneurs, small businesses, and non-profit organizations to apply for this opportunity.”
The Cariboo Chilcotin Coast “Spark” program provides small businesses, entrepreneurs and non-profit organizations in the region the opportunity to bring new tourism ideas, experiences or partnerships to fruition. Presented by Destination BC in collaboration with the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association, Community Futures, and the Tourism Innovation Lab, Spark program participants receive:
- 3 month mentorship with a tourism leader matched to your unique needs
- $3,000 grant to support idea development activities
- Access to a support network of tourism experts, resources and support services
Apply now by submitting a short and easy application. Learn more
The “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program is designed to help tourism entrepreneurs, small businesses and non-profit organizations overcome challenges and barriers often experienced in bringing new tourism products to life. Previous program participants in other jurisdictions have included water-based ecotours, agritourism initiatives, Indigenous tourism programs, wine and culinary workshops, interactive walking tours, virtual experiences, aerial adventures, winter glamping retreats, nature orientated vacation packages, and more.
The goal is to find, foster and support innovative tourism ideas, experiences and partnerships that will enhance current offerings, address gaps or challenges, motivate travel and longer stays, and increase year-round visits along the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast.
The program works by matching selected applicants with a tourism mentor, providing a $3,000 seed grant as well as additional partner support to help develop new tourism experiences. Applications are encouraged from entrepreneurs, small businesses, and non-profit organizations in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast, from October 27 to February 18, 2022. Five finalists will be invited to a virtual Pitch Session where three winners will be selected. EXTENDED Deadline February 18, 2022.
The Cariboo Chilcotin Coast “Spark” Program is presented by Destination BC and the Tourism Innovation Lab, in collaboration with the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association and Community Futures.
The “Spark” Program was first launched in Ontario in 2018 by the Tourism Innovation Lab and is expanding throughout British Columbia, supported by Destination BC. For more information on the “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program and upcoming Info Sessions visit:
https://www.tourisminnovation.ca/cariboochilcotincoast.html
Official Press Release here.