Tourism Kamloops has launched the Destination Events Support Fund to try and entice non-local event producers to consider hosting their events in the area.

Speaking on the NL Noon Report, CEO Monica Dickinson says the program, which will also involve local businesses and organizations, is focusing on the winter and early spring – November to April – in a bid to make Kamloops a more attractive venue around the year.

“This fund, really the essence is to work with event producers or organizations that have an appetite or an interest or a plan to bring a large scale event to Kamloops during that time,” she said, noting a “key aspect” of this initiative is the involvement of local businesses and organizations.

“We’re really looking to generate incremental visits and overnight stays over multiple days through his program.”

“Certainly, sporting events are part of that, and we’ve seen the great success in hosting big national events like Memorial Cup,” Dickinson added.

“I think there’s a great opportunity for any sort of arts and culture in this space. You know, comedians. We’re looking at maybe drag shows, and maybe something that has some notable personalities attached to it or some big artists.”

Dickinson says the fund will support up to 50 per cent of eligible expenses, to a maximum of $25,000 per application. She said Tourism Kamloops has set aside $75,000 this year, while hinting at the possibility of more in the future, depending on the uptake this year.

“We are really looking to spend these funds in attracting the talent,” she added. “Not so much venue fees or those sort of things, we really want to look at how do we help you as an organizer or producer bring that draw in.”

Applications are due by the end of September for events taking place between November and April.

“Kamloops has so much to offer year-round, and the Destination Events Support Fund enables us to build a greater desire for visitors in our typically quieter seasons,” Dickinson said.

“Our vision for this program supports businesses and organizations in creating new and exciting experiences for visitors to explore our city, while also elevating resident lifestyle and enhancing a sense of pride amongst Kamloopsians.”