NDP MLA Nathan Cullen says new recovery funding will help local fairs, festivals and events resume in Stikine

SMITHERS – New Democrat MLA Nathan Cullen says new support from the BC New Democrat government will help local fairs, festivals and community events resume in Stikine.

“With the absence of many beloved community events due to the pandemic, we were reminded just how important they are for people and local businesses,” said Nathan Cullen, MLA for Stikine. “Our government is providing support to event organizers through grants so they’re able to keep their doors open, create jobs, and bring people together again.”

4 fairs, festivals, and events in Stikine will benefit from this recovery funding.

Some examples include:

  • Smithers Saltos Invitational
  • 110th Annual Telkwa BBQ
  • Come Home Days
  • 103rd Bulkley Valley Exhibition

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:

To see the list of recipients for the Fairs, Festivals, and Events Recovery Fund, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2021TACS0078-002377