CKPG Today

A new province-wide program supports B.C.’s anchor tourism organizations

May 18, 2021 | 4:04 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – The Province announced they will be accepting applications for support through B.C.’s new major anchor attractions and tour bus companies funding program.

These applications are open to the entire province, so what does this mean for rural areas like the North and PG in particular? BC Liberal Leader Shirley Bond has her concerns:

” I am going to spend some time looking at the details because I am concerned about the geographic implications, one piece of good news from my perspective is, we have been working very hard. My colleague and I, from Caribou-North advocating on behalf of Barkerville for example, an iconic property in British Columbia, desperately needing help.”

This is important for the community of Prince George, because many people travel along Highway 97 and Highway 16 and through our town, to get to Barkerville.

B.C.’s major anchor attractions create jobs in communities throughout the province and draw visitors to other nearby businesses. Additionally, tour bus companies are an important link to bring travelers to regional destinations, attractions, and experiences.

The application window will be open until June 7 with funds provided in July 2021. for more information, you can head to the bc government website.

Quick Facts:

Examples of criteria and eligible organizations include:

* major anchor attractions in urban centres that receive 75,000 or more visitors per year – eligible for up to $1 million.

* major anchor attractions in rural areas that receive 15,000 or more visitors per year – eligible for up to $500,000.

* tour bus companies that serve 30,000 or more passengers per year – eligible for up to $500,000.

* examples of “turnstile” attractions eligible for the program include amusement parks, wildlife parks, botanical gardens, heritage institutions, museums, galleries, and science centres.