NDP MLAs Coulter and Paddon say tourism grants will help fund local events in Chilliwack

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CHILLIWACK – New Democrat MLAs Dan Coulter and Kelli Paddon say that local events in Chilliwack will benefit from provincial tourism funding.

“Chilliwack is such a great place to visit, and events like these draw in people to experience all the great scenery, businesses and hospitality that Chilliwack has to offer. Funding like this means we can continue to enjoy arts, sports and music in our community and continue to welcome visitors with open arms,” said Dan Coulter, MLA for Chilliwack.

The Province has provided funding to nearly 100 organizations through its Tourism Events Program (TEP) to build B.C.’s reputation as an events destination and increase visitation.

In Chilliwack, the following local events are receiving funding from the program:

  • Chilliwack Sunflower Festival- $12,500
  • Chilliwack Mural Festival- $11,474
  • Chilliwack Independent Film Festival- $10,000
  • 2023 BC Men’s & Scottie’s BC Women’s Curling Championships- $10,000

“Whether it’s to cheer on athletes at the provincial curling championships or to come snap some pictures at the beautiful Chilliwack Sunflower Festival, our area has so much to offer visitors and residents. Provincial funding is important to many of the events that we love and it’s great that this program is back to help make these events possible,” said Kelli Paddon, MLA for Chilliwack-Kent.

The Province announced $4.8 million for the Tourism Events Program in April this year, marking the return of TEP after a two-year absence due to the global pandemic. TEP funding supports a wide range of tourism experiences, including arts, cultural, or internationally recognized sporting competitions, bolstering awareness of the event, attracting additional overnight visitors and increasing tourism benefits to communities. The Province has provided over $18 million in TEP funding since 2016, supporting 317 events.

TEP grant amounts are for eligible activities that amplify the event’s provincial, national, and international marketing reach.

Learn More:

Provincial News Release: https://news.gov.bc.ca/27751

To Learn about the Strategic Framework for Tourism 2022 – 2024: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/tourism-immigration/tourism-resources/tourism-framework.