How the B.C. Employer Training Grant Supports Tourism Businesses

The B.C. Employer Training Grant (ETG) is a cost-sharing initiative that helps employers pay for training for their current or new employees. Employers receive funding to respond to their changing labour needs, invest in training for a skilled workforce, and support employees in gaining essential job skills. Self-employed persons and business owners are also eligible for funding. Priority is given to first-time applicants, small businesses, and applicants from regions and industries experiencing the greatest challenges acquiring skilled workers. 

The grant helps cover up to 80% of eligible employee training costs, including (but not limited to) exam fees, textbooks, some travel costs, and tuition. Employers can apply as often as needed for up to $10,000 per employee, with a maximum annual amount per employer of $300,000. 

The grant may benefit a wide range of tourism businesses, as demonstrated by the following hypothetical examples: 

• Restaurants might use the grant to train staff in evolving culinary techniques, food safety standards, or customer service practices.  

• Eco-tour operators offering guided wildlife experiences could train staff in safety protocols or eco-friendly practices, to meet growing demand for sustainable tourism.  

• Hotels, resorts, and lodges may focus on training employees in hospitality management or advanced guest service skills to support professional development and maintain high service standards.  

• Destination Management Organizations (DMOs) and municipalities could use the grant to enhance digital marketing or community engagement skills, helping attract visitors in a competitive tourism landscape.  

• Indigenous tourism businesses might use the grant to train staff in cultural tourism practices and guest engagement, contributing to professional growth, meaningful visitor experiences, and the sharing of Indigenous knowledge.  

• Craft breweries or wineries could use the grant to train employees in brewing or winemaking techniques, improving production quality and supporting professional development. 

These examples illustrate how tourism businesses in B.C. can access and use the ETG to meet their employee training needs. Whether the focus is on training new hires, helping employees develop skills for career progression, or adapting to new technologies, the grant supports tourism businesses with enhancing service quality and building a skilled, adaptable workforce. 

For more information on eligibility and how your business may benefit, visit the B.C. Employer Training Grant website to learn more and apply.