New Program Aims to “Spark” Innovative Tourism Ideas in Surrey and White Rock

Discover Surrey, Destination BC and the Tourism Innovation Lab have partnered to launch a new program aimed at sparking and supporting innovative tourism ideas in the Vancouver, Coast & Mountains region.

View official program announcement video: https://youtu.be/G_pN9FPuJDE 

The “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program will match selected applicants from the region with a tourism mentor, provide a $3,000 grant and additional partner support to help take their new tourism ideas to the next level of development.

The goal is to find, foster and support new tourism ideas, experiences and partnerships that will enhance current offerings, address gaps or challenges, motivate travel and longer stays, and increase year-round visits.

Applications are encouraged from entrepreneurs, small businesses and non-profit organizations based in the Surrey and White Rock area from September 21 to October 28, 2022. Following a review process, five finalists will be invited to a virtual Pitch Session where three winners will be selected.

The “Spark” Program was first launched in Ontario in 2018 by the Tourism Innovation Lab, and has now expanded to several regions across British Columbia.

The Surrey “Spark” Program is presented by Destination British Columbia in collaboration with Discover Surrey, and the Tourism Innovation Lab.

For more information on the “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program and upcoming Info Sessions visit https://www.tourisminnovation.ca/surreybc

QUOTES

Richard Porges, President & CEO, Destination BC

“We are pleased to be awarding “Spark” grants and mentorships to three local tourism entrepreneurs in Surrey. It will be exciting to see these winning initiatives come to fruition in the local area and build upon the region’s robust offerings.” 

Angeline Chew, Executive Director, Discover Surrey

“Discover Surrey is thrilled to be partnering with Destination British Columbia and the Tourism Innovation Lab to launch the “Spark” Program. The program aligns perfectly with our current Tourism Experiences Strategic Plan to assess and support the development of new Tourism Experiences. There is enormous potential in Surrey and White Rock for the creation of unique and engaging tourism product offerings, and we look forward to seeing exciting ideas that will entice visitors to the area and give those visiting a reason to stay longer.”

Justin Lafontaine, Program Lead, Tourism Innovation Lab

“We are excited to be launching the “Spark” Program in British Columbia in Surrey and White Rock. We are keen to spark and support new tourism ideas that will enhance the region’s tourism offerings and drive innovation.”