Tourism Events Program FAQ

Events may not be primarily commercial or academic in nature (e.g., consumer shows, symposia, conventions, meetings and conferences, seminars and clinics, educational competitions etc.); however, ancillary events/festivals created to coincide with these examples may be eligible.

Community events or attractions that mainly target residents are unlikely to have sufficient tourism value to be strong applicants to the program. Tourism value is demonstrated by way of raising awareness nationally and internationally of B.C.’s tourism brands, and/or drawing visitors to our province.

Events celebrating holidays are typically considered to be local celebrations that target residents rather than attract visitors. As these events occur across the province and have high brand competition, they are not generally considered for TEP funding. Applicants would have to demonstrate that their “holiday event” would draw significant visitation and international profile to be considered.

Funding provided through TEP must be used to broaden the reach and impact of the event through broadcasts, promotional materials, marketing, and advertisements. Examples include, but are not limited to, the following:

• App development (event specific)
• Billboards/digital advertising display
• Broadcasting and associated costs
• Contracted marketing staff
• Marketing strategy/plan development
• Event posters
• Event specific website development, framework and hosting
• Google AdWords and Search Engine Optimization
• Media buys
• Program guides for distribution before the event
• Promotional signage
• Radio, print, television and online advertising
• Social media marketing
• Streaming
• Webcasting

Please contact program staff at MRDT@destinationbc.ca with any questions regarding eligible/ineligible costs.

Examples of ineligible costs include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Administrative or operating costs/compensating full-time staff
• Alcohol
• Capital or infrastructure costs related to hosting the event
• Catering
• Costs associated with application or bid development
• Expenses incurred before the funding notification
• Give-aways
• Honorariums/appreciation gifts/ t-shirts for volunteers
• Prizes
• Signage unrelated to promotion of the event
• Security at an event
• Talent acquisition or performer/speaker fees
• Travel or accommodation costs

Please contact program staff at MRDT@destinationbc.ca with any questions regarding eligible/ineligible costs.