More pandemic support on the way for tourism industry

The Government of BC announced more grant support for the province’s tourism industry today.

Eligible accommodation providers, tourism operators and other commercial recreation businesses will have access to grants to alleviate fixed-cost pressures caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Tourism Accommodation and Commercial Recreation Relief Fund will offer critical support to large accommodators which are among the #HardestHit. Thank you @melaniejmark and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture & Sport for making this funding possible! https://t.co/Wcv6E5L7xm

— BC Hotel Association (@bchotelassoc) January 14, 2022

As much as $15 million will be provided through the Tourism Accommodation and Commercial Recreation Relief Fund (TACRRF) through three streams:

• BC-owned large accommodation providers employing more than 150 people.
• Indigenous-owned large accommodation properties employing more than 100 people and located on a reserve.
• Tenure and BC Parks permit holders that operate as tourism businesses.

"Accommodators across BC have suffered years of devastating losses while struggling to meet the demands of rising fixed costs," said Ingrid Jarrett, president and CEO of the British Columbia Hotel Association.

“We are grateful that this funding will help alleviate hardship for large accommodation providers and better position our industry for recovery."

Providing financial support for fixed costs was identified by the Tourism Task Force’s final report as a recommendation for businesses most affected by public health measures restricting travel and gatherings.

Supports are intended to help ensure the viability of these businesses through the 2022 winter and spring seasons.

These grants are just the latest financial support to be established for a tourism industry that has been hit hard by the pandemic.

Applications for the grants are open from today until Feb. 14 and you can learn more here.