Thompson Nicola Entrepreneurs Awarded Grants and Mentorships to Help Spark New Tourism Ideas

Three finalists who made winning pitches for the Thompson Nicola “Spark” Program were each awarded a $3,000 seed grant and mentorship to help them get started with their new tourism ideas.

The Thompson Nicola “Spark” Program is presented by Destination British Columbia in collaboration with Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), Tourism Valemount, Tourism Kamloops, Tourism Sun Peaks, Explore Gold Country, Tourism Wells Gray, and the Tourism Innovation Lab.

The program’s 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 in the area.

Seven applications were received, with the top five being invited to present their new tourism ideas at the virtual Pitch Session held on December 1. Judge panels of local partner representatives and tourism innovators from outside the region selected the three winning applicants.

The Thompson Nicola “Spark” Program winners are:

• Maveric Northcott – Wells Gray Outfitters

• Matt Sych – Dunn Folkin’ Around? Music Festival

• Daphne Spencer – Nicola Valley Rodeo Association

In addition to seed funds, mentorship, and additional partner support, selected applicants gain access to a network of tourism innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders across the province.

For more information visit https://TourismInnovation.ca/ThompsonNicola.html

Quotes

Richard Porges, President & CEO, Destination BC

“We are excited to be supporting local tourism entrepreneurs in the Thompson Nicola area by awarding “Spark” grants and mentorships that will create new tourism experiences and offerings. We look forward to seeing all the winners bring their creative and innovative initiatives to life as they strive to enhance the visitor experience and add value to local communities.”

Ellen Walker-Matthews, CEO, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association

“The “Spark” program has provided an opportunity to learn about many exciting initiatives and ideas in the Thompson Nicola. We congratulate the winners and look forward to watching as their plans unfold and help to grow visitor experiences. We also encourage others to continue to follow their dreams and passions, and bring new experiences to the Thompson Okanagan region.”

Justin Lafontaine, Program Lead, Tourism Innovation Lab

“We congratulate the three winners of the Thompson Nicola “Spark” Program, and are excited to work with them to help develop new and exciting tourism offerings in the region.”