Push for Market-Readiness Program

Bears walk along a fallen log in a BC forest.

Indigenous Tourism BC’s (ITBC) Push for Market-Readiness Program is an application-based program that responds directly to the demonstrated need of support to guide and prepare Indigenous tourism businesses and communities in British Columbia to reach a market-ready status and develop sustainable growth for economic success.  Based on the demand, ITBC makes funding available for the development of market-ready Indigenous tourism experiences and products.

This initiative is part of ITBC strategic planning, goals, and mandate to further support Indigenous communities and Stakeholders in BC.

Play Push for Market-Readiness Funding

Program Goals

Support Indigenous-owned tourism businesses and communities with expertise and funding to improve the development of remarkable, market-ready experiences in BC.

Availability of Funding

Each year, funding levels vary. In 2019 / 20, ITBC is providing $100,000 in grant funding to eligible applicants in all six tourism regions.

Eligibility

Eligible recipients are registered ITBC Stakeholders who are Indigenous tourism businesses (51% owned) offering Indigenous products and experiences

The applicant must contribute 10% of the total project cost

Eligible Activities

Projects supporting the transition from start-up phase (Tier 1) to market-ready (Tier 3) are the priority and focus. Examples of the types of eligible activities are:

  • Tourism Planning Resources
  • Developing and Implementing a business / marketing plan
  • Development of a published pricing policy, terms and conditions
  • Development of marketing / sales materials
  • Development of reservation / booking system
  • Production of high-resolution images and video footage for promotional and training purposes
  • Training
  • Other projects related to improving market readiness

Application Deadline

The application intake for the Push for Market Readiness Program for fiscal 2019/20 has now closed. For the following fiscal, ITBC will be sending a formal announcement in July 2020.

Who Received Funding in 2018/19?

The Push for Market Readiness program over the course of 2018/19 provided needed funding to 26 Indigenous tourism operations and communities. This micro-funding was used to improve digital marketing, capture new photography, advertise, and develop new tours.

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The Indigenous Tourism Association of British Columbia is a non-profit, membership-based organization that is committed to growing and promoting a sustainable, culturally rich Indigenous tourism industry.