Twelve (12) finalists who made winning pitches for the Rainforest to Rockies “Spark” Program were recently each awarded a $3,000 seed grant and mentorship to help them get started with their new tourism ideas, including a local gold mine.

The Rainforest to Rockies “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program is a collaborative partnership initiative between Destination BC, the Tourism Innovation Lab, Kootenay Rockies Tourism, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, and Vancouver, Coast & Mountains Tourism Region.

The first Iconic brand to launch from Destination BC’s Invest in Iconics Strategy, Rainforest to Rockies takes visitors from the Pacific Coast to the Canadian Rockies. It’s an iconic Canadian journey along ever-changing landscapes, inspiring travellers to visit more places in the province.

The “Spark” program’s goal was to find, advance, and support new tourism ideas that enhance the experience of the road-trip traveller along the Rainforest to Rockies corridors in B.C., in one or more of the following ways:

• Motivate travellers along the route to slow down, stay longer, and explore along the way.
• Address gaps in tourism products and services by offering something that does not yet exist or is in demand.
• Share or convey captivating stories about the place, providing an opportunity for the visitor to connect with the destination in a meaningful way.

Overall, 40 applications were received, with the top 20 being invited to present their new tourism ideas at four virtual Pitch Sessions.

A judge panel of local partner representatives and tourism innovators from outside the region selected the 12 winning applicants.

The 2024 Rainforest to Rockies Spark Program winners are:

Annamarie Klippenstein, Similkameen Cider Festival;

Deana Steele, Ro – Wellness Resort;

Sara & John Elley, “Pioneer Nights at Echo Lake Resort;

Stephen Lathem, Nip&Tuck Goldmine (near Fort Steele);

Liz Cohoe, Kootenay Rockies Artisans at Work Excursion Tour;

Corinna Hamilton, Little Bearskin Den – Métis Experiences;

Todd Davidson, Highway 3 Museum Tour;

Jeremy Lebreton, Adventure Vehicle Rentals;

Michael MacWilliams, Rainforest To Rockies: The Hunt;

Lise Hines, BC a la carte Adventures;

Pamela McGarel, Kootenay Rockies Self-Guided Tours;

Christina Metherall, Squamish Discovery Tours.

In addition to seed funds, mentorship, and additional partner support, selected applicants gain access to a network of tourism innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders across the province.

This program helps tourism entrepreneurs, small businesses, and non-profit organizations in B.C. align with Destination BC’s Invest in Iconics Strategy, transforming the way B.C. is seen through the eyes of travellers around the world.

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