Backgrounder: Lower Mainland attractions receive $1.6 million to create memorable cultural experiences and boost Indigenous tourism

Today, in celebration of World Tourism Day, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced $1.6 million in funding through PacifiCan’s Tourism Growth Program for seven Lower Mainland organizations. This funding will help create dynamic tourism experiences, from arts exhibitions and family-friendly festivals to historic sites that showcase the region's rich Indigenous history and knowledge.

The projects announced today are:

Fort Langley Community Improvement Society

$205,270

PacifiCan funding will support the transformation of Fort Langley's historic Community Hall into a vibrant cultural hub, offering artists a dedicated space for exhibitions, performances, and other events. This revitalization project will strengthen the local arts community, boost revenue for nearby businesses, and attract more visitors, enhancing Fort Langley's reputation as a top destination for arts and culture.

Greater Vancouver International Film Festival Society

$250,000

PacifiCan funding will support the creation of a dynamic new event for the 2024 Vancouver International Film Festival, showcasing exclusive in-person experiences, interactive live events, art exhibitions, and performances by acclaimed filmmakers. By integrating film, music, and creative arts and technology, the festival will boost attendance from both local and international visitors. 

Indigenous Tourism BC

$350,000

PacifiCan funding will enable Indigenous Tourism BC to provide Indigenous communities and businesses with capacity-building workshops and professional content development, producing engaging videos and photos for social media campaigns and websites. This will boost business growth by spreading the message near and far about the exceptional Indigenous tourism offerings in B.C., while celebrating the rich cultural diversity of Indigenous communities throughout our province.

Nectar Yoga Retreat

$201,000

PacifiCan funding will help Nectar Yoga on Bowen Island expand its health and wellness offerings by creating three hydrotherapy thermal healing circuits.This unique hot-cold therapy experience will enhance the retreat’s appeal to both local and international visitors and support business growth in the shoulder seasons when visitor numbers are lower.

Tourism Burnaby

$129,500

PacifiCan funding will allow Tourism Burnaby's Halloween Festival to expand into a month-long marquee event, attracting local and out-of-town guests during the fall shoulder season, a period often less popular with visitors. Offering a variety of diverse experiences for families and cosplay enthusiasts, this expanded festival will drive tourism and support local businesses.

Vancouver Maritime Museum

$250,000

PacifiCan funding will enable the Vancouver Maritime Museum to revitalize the St. Roch exhibit for the first time since 1974, transforming it into an immersive and accessible experience that highlights Inuit perspectives and Indigenous navigation. This project involves the design, fabrication and installation of new multimedia elements, which will attract more visitors, deepen cultural engagement and stimulate economic growth.

Yes Cycle 

$250,000

PacifiCan funding will support Yes Cycle's expansion to a third location near Stanley Park, increasing its bicycle and e-scooter inventory and advancing Vancouver’s sustainable tourism strategy through eco-friendly transportation options. This project will create local jobs, boost tourism, and make exploring the city's attractions more efficient and accessible.

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• News release: Lower Mainland attractions receive $1.6 million to create memorable cultural experiences and boost Indigenous tourism