The Government of British Columbia is providing $500,000 to the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, as part of more than $10.1 million being awarded to 90 eligible local governments, First Nations and not-for-profit organizations under the BC Rural Dividend program, announced Lisa Beare, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, on behalf of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development Minister Doug Donaldson today.

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, in partnership with Aboriginal Tourism BC, the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen, Telus and Vicom Design Inc., will use the $500,000 award to implement the strategy for Phase 1 of the Thompson Okanagan Regional Destination Trail Project. 

Phase 1 of the destination trail project focuses on planning, investment and visitor attraction – as well as consulting with First Nations, heritage organizations and ecological experts.

The Rural Dividend program provides grants of up to $100,000 each for single applicants, and up to $500,000 for partnerships to help rural communities stabilize their economies and create long-term local employment.

The program is under review, and the Province is determining how best to distribute the remaining Rural Dividend funds, taking into account the community impacts of this year's wildfire season and other exceptional circumstances.

Rural development activities support government’s commitment to building a strong, sustainable and innovative economy that creates well-paying jobs for all British Columbians.

Quotes:

Doug Donaldson, Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development –

“This new funding will help rural communities grow their economies and create jobs – now and for the next generation.”

Lisa Beare, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture –

“We are committed to building strong communities for all British Columbians. I am thrilled to see more than $500,000 go to the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association from the Rural Dividend grants. People in this region rely on tourism for their livelihoods. This funding will upgrade the Kettle Valley Rail Trail and set us on a path to making it the number 1 tourism attraction for adventure travellers in this region.”

Quick Facts:

Projects were assessed and approved based on the following criteria:

• Rural communities most in need.
• Improved community resiliency and economic strength.
• Partnership building and enhanced shared prosperity.
• Project feasibility and sustainability.
• Economic impact on rural communities.
• Attracting and retaining youth.
• Innovation in economic development.

Learn More:

Rural Dividend: www.gov.bc.ca/ruraldividend