NDP MLA Mike Starchuk says new recovery funding will help local fairs, festivals and events resume in Surrey

SURREY – New Democrat MLA Mike Starchuk says new support from the provincial government will help local fairs, festivals and community events resume in Surrey.

“The pandemic has made it clear how important our melas and festivals have been to community building,” said MLA Starchuk of Surrey-Cloverdale. “This government investment will help enable people to safely connect with one another while enjoying key community events and supporting local businesses in these tough times.”

Over 18 fairs, festivals, and events in Surrey will benefit from this recovery funding.

Some examples include:

  • Punjabi Mela 22: $89,700
  • Surrey Canada Day: $120,000
  • Surrey Fusion Festival: $190,000
  • Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair: $250,000

These fairs, festivals, and events are among the 680 events across the province supported by the BC New Democrat government’s investment. The government is providing nearly $30 million in one-time grants to eligible event organizers to support their efforts to resume safely. Grant amounts for each event are up to 20% of the total event budget, up to a maximum of $250,000.

Successful recipients demonstrated the economic and social benefits of their event, as well as strong local or regional support. Examples of eligible expenses include operational costs, health and safety measures, venue rental, marketing, wages, and promotion.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, the New Democrat government has worked closely with B.C.’s tourism sector and provided $225 million in support to ensure businesses and non-profits can continue to draw visitors and benefit local communities for years to come.

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/25941

To see the list of recipients for the Fairs, Festivals, and Events Recovery Fund, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/BCFFE_Funded_Events.pdf