British Columbia Tourism Industry Conference 2026 Shaping Visionary Future for Kelowna’s Economy

With a warm sense of excitement, the city of Kelowna is preparing to welcome leaders from across the tourism world as the 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference is set for March 4–6 2026 at the Delta Hotels Grand Okanagan Resort. Organised by the Tourism Industry Association of British Columbia (TIABC), the gathering aims to bring together tourism operators, destination marketing organisations and government representatives to map out the road ahead for the province’s visitor economy.

TIABC describes British Columbia’s visitor economy as generating approximately CAD 18.5 billion in revenue in 2022. The conference will provide a platform for discussion of key issues such as sustainability, workforce development and regional tourism growth.

A time for turning ideas into action

After several years of disruption, the tourism industry in British Columbia is showing signs of renewed strength. According to the Destination BC annual service plan, the industry revenue for 2022 was reported at CAD 18.5 billion, marking a significant jump over the previous year. One of the central themes at the conference will be how to translate this momentum into durable gains for businesses and communities.

TIABC emphasises that this is not just about economic recovery but about shaping an industry that serves residents, preserves the environment and honours Indigenous heritage. Attendees will hear about strategies for year‑round tourism, diversification of destinations, and deeper community engagement.

Why Kelowna matters in this moment

Kelowna, nestled in British Columbia’s wine country and lake‑scenery region, is an apt choice for this conversation. Within the region, tourism spending in 2022 reached an estimated CAD 540 million, supporting about 8,750 direct jobs and contributing roughly CAD 373 million in wages.By hosting the conference, Kelowna positions itself not only as a destination but as a discussion hub for provincial tourism strategy.

The resort venue offers delegates an opportunity to experience first‑hand how a destination blends natural beauty, hospitality and economic purpose. It also signals a vision for tourism hubs beyond major metro centres. Local business owners and tourism operators in the Okanagan region will no doubt be watching closely as ideas presented at the conference translate into regional action.

What to expect at the conference

Registration for the event will open in early November, and organisers are advising participants to book accommodations and travel early to take advantage of special rates.The programme is expected to cover keynote sessions, breakout workshops and networking opportunities focused on themes such as sustainable practices, workforce attraction and capitalising on new markets.

A key benefit of the conference will be facilitating dialogue between government bodies, private sector operators and destination marketing organisations. Through these connections, the aim is to streamline policy, investment and innovation in a sector that remains vital for British Columbia’s economy.

The human side of tourism & the lock‑in impact

Behind every hotel check‑in, guided tour or winery visit lies the livelihood of people. TIABC notes that tourism includes countless small businesses and young employees beginning their careers they are the faces of the visitor experience. The conference therefore is about more than numbers it’s about real jobs, communities, and shared pride in what British Columbia offers to travellers.

In Kelowna, as the delegates gather, there will be conversations about the future being built not only for visitors but for residents. What does a thriving tourism sector mean for local workers, for families, for the environment? These questions will be front and centre.

Closing with purpose

As the sun sets over Okanagan Lake and the region prepares for the influx of conference delegates, the mood is hopeful. Kelowna stands ready to host the 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference, and through that event the province’s tourism sector will be given fresh wings. Success will not only be measured in visitor numbers or revenue, but in how tourism supports community strength, environmental health and cultural authenticity.

In the weeks ahead, registration details will open and decision‑makers will sharpen their focus. For Kelowna and for British Columbia as a whole, this conference may mark a pivot moment one where the industry doesn’t just bounce back, but leaps forward.

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