BARRY O’RIORDAN
COWICHAN VALLEY – If you are a tourism related business or organization operating in the Cowichan Region, Tourism Cowichan invites you to take 10- 20 minutes to complete the survey below to let Tourism Cowichan know how they can improve regional tourism marketing initiatives for 2025.
The goal of the survey is to better inform Tourism Cowichan’s annual marketing plan, specifically the Municipal Regional District Tax (MRDT) Annual Tactical Plan for the Cowichan Region. Moving forward, Tourism Cowichan aims to make strategic planning a more inclusive process by gathering insights from tourism stakeholders, who know our region and our visitors best.
Take Survey here
Housing Targets Established
Housing targets have been established by the provincial government for North Cowichan, with 1,233 net-new units to be completed within five years. The province’s Housing Supply Act came into effect in 2023, which enabled the government to establish housing targets for communities based on areas of greatest need and highest projected growth. The initiative is part of the province’s Homes for People action plan.
In addition to the targets, the province has sent a list of housing guidelines that recommend the number of units by size (one bedroom, two bedroom, and three bedroom), rental versus owned units, below-market rental units and units with on-site supports.
Sport Tourism Grants Available
The 2nd intake period of 2024 for the CVRD Sport Tourism Event Grant (STEG) program is now open! We are accepting applications from local sport organizations until October 1, 2024 for events that will take place between January 1- June 30, 2025
The intention of the STEG is to support local sporting organizations in hosting championships, tournaments, and training camps at a regional, provincial, national or international level. The goal of the program is to attract multi-day events and provide an opportunity for overnight stays by out-of-region participants and spectators. The program is designed to support a vibrant local sport tourism economy and encourage a healthy active lifestyle.
Local sporting and not-for-profit organizations are eligible for funding up to $3,000 through the STEG. Individuals and business organizations are not eligible for grants from the CVRD.
Local organizations can apply online by clicking the button below. Budgets outlining revenues and expenses are strongly encouraged. Grant funding will be paid out in two installments- 75% of the grant will be awarded prior to the event date, and 25% upon receipt of the final event report requirements.
Apply here
Barry O’Riordan is the Manager of Economic Development Cowichan.