The Government of British Columbia has committed to furthering community development with the announcement of $129,500 to various sport organizations throughout the province.

A total of 21 communities will receive program funding from Hosting BC, through grants ranging between $500 and $10,000. These funds are provided by the government and administered by ViaSport, a provincial leader in promoting sport and physical activity.

The entire list represents 39 events made up of 30 different sports held in many areas of the province.

These grants will help support the operation of provincial, national and club championships like the 2016 Little League Canadian Championship in Vancouver and the 2016 Western Canadian Para Alpine Championships in Kimberley, as well as tournaments and tour stops like the Pacific Coast Sledge Hockey Invitational in Surrey and the 2016 Speed Nation: NorAm Tour in Prince George.

Since 2004, Hosting BC has invested $5 million in funding from the Province of British Columbia to community-based sporting events, further building on B.C.’s reputation as a leading host of marquee sport and cultural events.

Applications will reopen again in early September for the next round of Hosting BC funds. For more information, see: http://www.viasport.ca/grants

Quotes:

Peter Fassbender, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development and Minister Responsible for TransLink –

“These grants provide assistance to smaller sporting organizations that would otherwise not be in a position to host major events on their own. The funds will help ensure B.C. athletes are given every opportunity to excel and will also help ensure B.C. communities are given every opportunity to thrive.”

Cathy Priestner Allinger, CEO, ViaSport –

“ViaSport is proud to see a range of sport events, from local tournaments to international championships, continue to choose British Columbia as their preferred sport hosting destination. The Hosting BC grant program ensures B.C. can uphold its reputation and increase its exposure as a host of world-class events.”

Quick Facts:

• Hosting BC funds competitive level events that support long-term athlete development plans for B.C.’s provincial sport organizations.
• Grants typically range from $1,000 to $15,000 depending on the level of competition (e.g., provincial, regional, national, international).
• Applications for funding are reviewed by the Hosting BC Review Committee, which is comprised of leaders in the sport and tourism sectors.

Learn More:

For a complete list of grant recipients: https://www.viasport.ca/sites/default/files/Documents/2015_07_Hosting_Backgrounder.pdf

ViaSport: http://www.viasport.ca/