The shows must, and will go on as the province pledges to provide a $30 million one-time grant through the B.C. Fairs, Festivals and Events (BCFFE) fund to support B.C. based events in response to calls from the sector for more help.
This spring, Nanaimo-North Cowichan MLA Doug Routley announced recipients of provincial funding to help make sure local fairs, festivals and other events continue without a hitch through 2023 and 2024. Routley shares this funding will be crucial in hosting beloved events like Sunfest in the Cowichan Valley.
“As we emerge from the pandemic, our local festivals, fairs and events are key parts of thriving communities,” said Routley. “This is why our government is supporting events locally and throughout B.C. which support our economy and build connection.”
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In Cowichan, 17 events are receiving a total of almost $723,400 in funding, including $250,000 for the Sunfest Country Music Festival, $93,200 for the BC Bike Race, $9,400 for the Ladysmith Festival of Lights, and $9,400 for the Vancouver Island Metis Rendezvous 2023.
“The past three years have been incredibly difficult for people in the tourism industry, including live events, and we know not every business has fully recovered,” said Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, Lana Popham. “Our government is proud to provide funding to support fairs, festivals, and events throughout B.C. as they re-establish themselves. We know that these types of gatherings fill British Columbians’ hearts with joy. We also know that in many cases they support a greater economy right across the province.”
The $30 million that the B.C. government will be providing for 2023 and 2024 will counteract challenges the sector is facing, such as loss of staffing and volunteers, supply-chain issues, and a cautious return of audiences. Grant amounts will be as much as 20 per cent of the total event budget, to a maximum of $250,000.
“This timely investment will ensure events and festivals can continue, bringing tourism and economic benefits to the province,” said Tourism Industry Association of BC CEO Walt Judas. “Local events in communities large and small bring increased exposure to communities and provide employment opportunities for residents, while contributing to the vibrancy of the community. This is an exciting announcement for the industry.”
Eligible expenses to be covered by the grants include operational costs, health-and-safety measures, venue rental, marketing, wages and promotion.
“This funding is an exciting announcement for the sector,” said Mark Zuberbuhler, Vancouver Folk Music Festival Society president. “Music audiences and festival partners have all asked for help to save their events. We can all use a helping hand right now, so this funding will go a long way to keep events happening over the next two summers.”
chadd.cawson@cowichanvalleycitizen.com
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