SilverStar, Armstrong among beneficiaries of federal tourism funds

The Canadian government is supporting tourism projects across the Thompson Okanagan, including a few in the North Okanagan.

Through the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PAcifiCan), the federal government is providing $2.5 million for 16 projects throughout the region.

The funds consist of $240,000 from the Canada Community Revitalization Fund, and $2.3 million from the Tourism Relief Fund.

Of the 16 projects supported through the federal funds, two are located in the North Okanagan, and one has local ties.

A $99,999 grant is supporting the Bloom Flower Festival in Armstrong. The money will go towards building and installing a tiny home to increase accommodation options and support attendance.

SilverStar Mountain Resort will receive $50,000 to purchase bike carriers for the gondola cabins. This is intended to increase mountain biking activities and drive tourism during the shoulder season.

The B.C. Snowmobile Federation, which has clubs in Vernon, Lumby, Enderby, Kelowna, and other communities in the region, will get $600,000 to create a recreational snowmobile trail program.

The tourism funds are also supporting several other projects in the Okanagan and surrounding area.

• Born to Shake – $99,999 to build a cocktail-making experience and venue in Kelowna
• MotherLove Ferments Inc. – $99,999 to build a kombucha tasting room in Kelowna
• Niche Wine Company Ltd. – $99,999 to support the expansion of the Indigenous-owned winery in West Kelowna
• Salmon Arm Folk Music Society – $436,725 to support events in the region, including the Salmon Arm Pride Festival and Indigenous Misc Festival, and to develop a plan to enhance music-related tourism
• Shuswap Water Tours Inc – $367,500 to build a new floating dock and purchase watercraft for boat tours in Blind Bay
• Scotch Creek Hub Ic. – $61,500 to expand tourism experiences at the Hub’s Family Fun Centre
• Velo Volt Bike Rentals Ltd. – $30,000 to acquire electric bikes for a mobile bicycle business in Kelowna
• Vines & Views Tours and Rentals Inc. – $99,999 to acquire more vehicles and hire staff to expand the tours in Kelowna

“Amazing things are happening in the Southern Interior,” Harjit Sajan, minister of international development and minister responsible for PacifiCan, said.

“The region is known for its world-class ski hills, wines and produce and is also home to a thriving tech community and innovative forestry and mining sectors. Investing in shared public spaces and tourism experiences will bring communities together, attract new visitors, and ensure that the Thompson-Okanagan region thrives well into the future.”