New Program Aims to “Spark” Innovative Tourism Ideas in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast

For the second year in a row, individuals and operators in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast region can apply to the “Spark” Mentorship and Grants Program to help take their new tourism ideas to the next level of development.

The “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program will match selected applicants from the region with a tourism mentor, provide a $3,000 grant and additional partner support to help them develop their local tourism ideas.

The goal is to find, foster and support new tourism ideas, experiences and partnerships that will enhance current offerings, address gaps or challenges, motivate travel and longer stays, and increase year-round visits.

Entrepreneurs, small businesses, and non-profit organizations based in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast are encouraged to apply between February 9 and March 16, 2023, for a chance at becoming one of the selected “Spark” recipients.  Following a review process, five finalists will be invited to a virtual Pitch Session where three winners will be selected.

The “Spark” Program was first launched in Ontario in 2018 by the Tourism Innovation Lab and has now expanded to several regions across British Columbia.

The Cariboo Chilcotin Coast “Spark” Program is presented by Destination British Columbia in collaboration with the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association, Community Futures, and the Tourism Innovation Lab.

Last year’s Cariboo Chilcotin Coast “Spark” recipients were Cheryl Macarthy & Dave Jorgenson of Historic Stays in Barkerville and Wells, Alex Bracewell of Bracewell Alpine Wilderness Adventures based out of Tatlayoko Lake, and Erin Yeo and Kelly Servinski of the Tutti Gravel Inn in Clinton.

For more information on the “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program and upcoming Info Sessions visit: https://www.tourisminnovation.ca/cariboochilcotincoast.html

QUOTES

Amy Thacker, CEO, Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association

“Developing new tourism experiences is critical to the future of sustainable tourism in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast. All of us at CCCTA are excited to see what ideas come forward this year and how they can bring innovative ideas to life. We are building on the success of last year’s “Spark” program and the partnerships forged with our regional Community Futures, Destination BC and the Tourism Innovation Lab. We have great places to visit in the land without limits and this will help make it even better for visitors.”

Richard Porges, President & CEO, Destination BC
“We are delighted to be launching “Spark” grants and mentorships in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast region. The entire Destination BC team looks forward to seeing local entrepreneurs bring diverse and innovative tourism experiences to life, helping to motivate travel, longer stays, and increase year-round visitation.”

Justin Lafontaine, Program Lead, Tourism Innovation Lab

“We are excited to be launching the “Spark” Program in British Columbia in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast region,” said Justin Lafontaine, Program Lead of the Tourism Innovation Lab. “We are keen to spark and support new tourism ideas that will enhance the region’s tourism offerings and drive innovation.”

Media Contacts:

Amy Thacker, CEO, Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association
Phone: 250-392-2226
Email: [email protected]

Destination BC Media Relations
Email: [email protected]

Alex Berlyand, BC Programs Coordinator, Tourism Innovation Lab,
Phone: 1-844-455-0325 ext. 2
Email: [email protected]