We’re excited about what lies ahead in 2018 for our region, and for tourism throughout BC. There will be some new technology innovations to come that are leading the way when it comes to traveller engagement. The direct sailing for BC Ferries between Port Hardy and Bella Coola returns this summer opening the door to our coastal communities even more. Plus additional support has arrived for businesses still struggling to catch up after last summer wildfires. Read on fellow enthusiast!
Upcoming Webinar
An introduction to the User Generated Partner Network webinar is coming on January 9 at 10am PST. Destination BC and CrowdRiff will be hosting a webinar to provide more information on the User Generated Content Partner Network.
In this webinar, we’ll cover:
• What is the UGC Partner Network and how can it benefit my organization?
• What is CrowdRiff and how can it support my organization’s content marketing efforts?
• How will I be able to easily feed user-generated content directly to Destination Canada, Destination BC and to regional and community destination marketing organizations by joining the network?
• How can I take advantage of the preferred co-op pricing that Destination Canada has secured for all Canadian tourism partners?
Important: please register in advance here: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2447144934347470082
Local Wildfire Support
Businesses and non-profit organizations in wildfire affected communities in the Cariboo-Chilcotin/Lillooet area will soon have additional support thanks to a partnership between Northern Development, Community Futures Cariboo Chilcotin, Community Futures North Cariboo, Community Futures Sun Country and the Cariboo-Chilcotin Beetle Action Coalition (CCBAC).
Thanks to this partnership, an Emergency Response Coordinator and Business Ambassadors will work from CFDC offices in Quesnel, Williams Lake and Ashcroft until October 31st, 2018 to help businesses access resources to help with wildfire recovery.
The new positions will help businesses assess the impact of the wildfires on their operations, match their needs to available programs and services, assist with appropriate referrals and application processes and collect information that can help communities better understand the wildfire impacts in order to support new program development.
These positions will be working in collaboration with other wildfire response programs to complement and promote resources available through organizations such as Emergency Management BC, the Red Cross and the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development.
Learn more: Visit North Development’s site here.
#buildingastrongernorth
Red Cross Support to Small Business Program: Phase 2
The B.C. government has launched its second phase of recovery funds for small businesses affected by the record area of the B.C. Interior burned by wildfires this summer.
Financial assistance is designed to at least partially compensate businesses for uninsured losses, insurance deductibles, minor repairs, cleanup, equipment and occupational training expenses. The Red Cross decides on the eligible amount for each application.
Find out more by visiting the Red Cross Support to Small Business Program website.
Travel Guide Advertising Deadline Quickly Approaching
The Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Travel Guide is our annual flagship publication. The print run of 40,000 is distributed at Consumer shows, BC Visitor Centres, to travel trade and travel media, and has an online version for viewing around the world.
This guide simplifies the travel experience for the visitor and encourages them to spend more time in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Region.
Advertising rates range from $190 for a Directory Listing to $7500 for a double-page spread. Early-bird rates are in effect now, and prices have not increased. Find out more, download the 2018 CCC Travel Guide advertiser kit.
Reminder: How-To Social Media for Tourism Workshops Coming
Need to get the word out about your business? Not sure how to focus your time and resources when it comes to Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter?
Sign up for our FREE social media training webinars (online seminars) to strengthen your online presence in 2018. Plus you can take attend the webinars all together, or individually based on your own strengths.
A series of 3 workshops at different skill levels will take place on:
January 30, 2018 10:30-11:30am (basic)
February 15, 2018 10:30-11:30am (intermediate)
March 15, 2018 10:30-11:30am (advanced)
At these workshops you will:
• learn the basics of social media: specifically for tourism advertising, visitor servicing, and branding
• get question and answer time with a social media specialist
• see real examples from the region
• gain an understanding of how to choose photos, use hashtags, connect to others in the region, and engage and grow your audience
• get help leveraging your existing knowledge and resources to build a stronger online presence
• have your questions and feedback incorporated into each follow-up session
Sign-up and spread the word. We’re looking forward to connecting with everyone and promoting the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast together!
To sign up, please send a quick email to kelly@landwithoutlimits.com You will receive confirmation and log on details upon registration.