Application Deadline: DECEMBER 17, 2021
Whether you are an individual, a start-up or an established small business or non-profit organization, there can be many challenges and barriers to bringing a new tourism idea, experience or partnership to fruition.
We want to help. The “Spark” Program will match selected candidates with a tourism mentor and provide a source of financial support to help take your great new tourism idea to the next level of development or implementation.
Our goal is to inspire Indigenous entrepreneurs, small businesses and non-profit organizations to come forward with creative ideas that will generate new tourism opportunities, experiences and partnerships in the area.
The program includes:
- Call out for applications from individuals, small businesses and non-profits
- Application reviews by a jury including local and provincial tourism innovators and leaders
- Finalists’ Pitch Session (our friendly take on a tourism Dragon’s Den)
Save the date: January 25, 2022 - Selection of 3 winning applicants
Eligibility
- Indigenous tourism entrepreneurs, small businesses, community groups and non-profits based in British Columbia
- Eligible businesses and organizations that are 51%+ Indigenous-owned, operated and controlled and will offer a bookable cultural experience
- Applicants must be enrolled as an Indigenous Tourism BC member/stakeholder before submitting their “Spark” Program application.
Benefits
Selected applicants will receive:
- 3 month mentorship with a tourism innovator, experienced operator, industry leader and/or sector expert
- $5,000 “Spark” grant to support tourism idea development activities
- Access to a support network of tourism innovators, entrepreneurs and leaders
- Ongoing guidance on other resources and support services provided by partners
Application Procedure
What Are We Looking For?
New Indigenous tourism ideas that address one or more of the following:
- Enhances current tourism offerings
- Creates new, high-quality tourism experiences
- Addresses gaps in tourism products and services
- Motivates travel, longer stays and repeat visits
- Increases visitation and tourism spending
While there are no categories, we are especially interested in Indigenous tourism ideas that:
- Support truth and reconciliation, sustainability and/or address climate change
- Offer opportunities for travellers to learn and make with artists, creating authentic souvenirs to take home
- Offer opportunities for travellers to visit the land with guides and storytellers to learn about First Nation traditional territories through tours on land, air or water
- Offer opportunities that support Indigenous culinary experiences
- Support shoulder season activities in rural areas
What Is A “Tourism” Idea?
Experiences, products and partnerships that motivate travel to your area by people living more than 40km away, across the provincial border or internationally, and provide engagement, participation, purchasing and/or travel related opportunities while they are visiting.
Official Website: Indigenous Tourism BC Spark Mentorships & Grants Program
