| | A British Columbia community recognizes, supports and grows its ag tourism potential. Situated in the B.C. Fraser Valley an hour from Vancouver, the Chilliwack Economic Partners knew they had potential in ag tourism. Economic development studies confirmed and defined the opportunities and started the ball rolling. Local how-to resources helped ag tourism operators get started in the business.
Now, 8 years later, and with a focus that includes the whole Fraser Valley, the group is leading the way in B.C.’s ag tourism development. Not only are they piloting a new standards and insurance program for the provincially based B.C. Ag Tourism Alliance (BCATA), they are also working on a regional marketing and branding strategy.
When asked what lies beneath Chilliwack’s success in ag tourism development, Ann Britton, formerly with the Chilliwack Economic Partners, says, “It’s the P-3 approach.” P-3 stands for Public Private Partnership and involves industry players working together with government tourism and economic staff towards a common goal. “The industry needs to drive the agenda with the public sector providing support and guidance as needed,” adds Ann. “The key is to get clear agreement on the goals up front from all involved.”
For more information, check out www.tourismchilliwack.com and look under Agricultural Tourism.
Grease the Wheel
Looking for financial support for your network, community or cluster initiatives? Check out these sources:
Agricultural Initiatives Program - Funds are provided by the Alberta Lottery Fund to encourage improvements in agriculture, the quality of life in the agricultural community and to facilitate rural development. For more information go to: http://www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/deptdocs.nsf/all/rsv593 or call (780) 427-4311 (toll free via 310-0000)
Canadian Rural Partnership - Networking Initiative - The Networking Initiative funds three types of rural community projects aimed at building community capacity: learning events, partnerships and networks. For more information go to: http://www.rural.gc.ca/programs/networking_e.phtml or call (888) 781-2222
Community Initiatives Program – This program supports project-based initiatives in areas such as arts and culture, education, health and recreation. For more information go to: http://albertalotteryfund.ca/grants/community_initiatives.asp or call (800) 642-3855
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