The BC Wildlife Park in Kamloops will be applying for provincial grant funding for tourism operators.

General Manager Glenn Grant says he has spoken with the assistant deputy Minister of Tourism. He was told the park would be eligible for funding as an rural tourist operator with more than 15,000 annual visitors.

Earlier today, the B.C. government announced a $50-million grant program for the tourism sector, with up to $1 million available for urban tourism companies which have 75,000-or-more visitors each year, and up to $500,000 available for each rural tourism company with more than 15,000 visitors per year.

“We don’t physically have the application form or the application process. But it’s been discussed, and we will be applying by June 7th. We’re eligible up to an amount, but we’re not sure how much that will be. But I can anticipate it being substantial,” Grant says.

Grant says the non-profit wildlife park, which rehabilitates animals, is holding its head above water financially. He says that’s being done with guests, donations and the federal Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS).

But he says revenues are taking a hit with no special events allowed.

“We’re not in any danger, like what some people may think, of not operating. But we’re doing bare bones stuff. Without doing any of our special events that drive revenue, it’s hard to do a lot of the maintenance and the upkeep.”

Grant says the park has been told to expect funding by July through the new grant program. He says whatever amount is provided will be “an enormous boost” for the park.

The money will be able to be spent on wages, rent, utilities and other operating costs.