BC Tourism Industry Conference 2026: Shaping the Visionary Future of Kelowna’s Economy

Posted on November 2, 2025

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 scheduled to take place March 4-6, 2026 at the Delta Hotels Grand Okanagan Resort. Organized by the Tourism Industry Association of British Columbia (TIABC), the gathering aims to bring together tourism operators, destination marketing organizations and government representatives to chart the way forward for the province’s visitor economy.

TIABC describes British Columbia’s visitor economy as generating approx 18.5 billion Canadian dollars in revenue in 2022. The conference will provide a platform to discuss key issues such as sustainability, workforce development and regional tourism growth.

It is the time to turn ideas into action

After several years of turmoil, the tourism industry in British Columbia He shows signs of renewed strength. According to Destination BC’s Annual Service Plan, industry revenue for 2022 was reported at C$18.5 billion, representing a significant jump from the previous year. One of the key topics of the conference will be how to translate this momentum into lasting gains for businesses and communities.

TIABC emphasizes that it is not just about economic recovery, but about shaping an industry that serves residents, conserves the environment and honors Indigenous heritage. Attendees will hear about year-round tourism strategies, destination diversification, and deeper community engagement.

Why Kelowna matters at this moment

Kelowna, located in British Columbia’s wine country and lakes region, is an appropriate choice for this conversation. In the region, tourism spending in 2022 reached an estimated 540 million Canadian dollars, supporting about 8,750 direct job opportunities and contributing approximately C$373 million in wages. By hosting the conference, Kelowna positions itself not only as a destination but as a discussion center for regional tourism strategy.

The resort setting provides delegates with the opportunity to experience how a destination blends natural beauty, hospitality and economic purpose. It also indicates a vision for tourist centers outside the main metros. Local business owners and tourism operators in the Okanagan region will no doubt be watching closely as the ideas presented at the conference are translated into regional action.

What to expect at the conference

Registration for the event will open in early November, and organizers advise participants to book accommodation and travel early to take advantage of the special rates. The program is expected to cover key sessions, breakout workshops and networking opportunities focusing on topics such as sustainable practices, attracting the workforce and tapping into new markets.

One of the key benefits of the conference will be to facilitate dialogue between government bodies, private sector operators and destination marketing organisations. Through these linkages, the goal is to streamline policy, investment and innovation in a sector that remains vital to BC’s economy.

The human side of tourism and the impact of lockdown

Behind every hotel check-in, guided tour, or winery visit lies people’s livelihood. TIABC notes that tourism includes countless small businesses and young employees who are starting their careers and are the faces of the visitor experience. So the conference is about more than just numbers, it’s about real jobs, communities and shared pride in what BC has to offer travelers.

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

Close 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 this event, the province’s tourism sector will be given new wings. Success will be measured not only by visitor numbers or revenue, but also by how tourism supports community strength, environmental health and cultural authenticity.

In the coming weeks, registration details will open and decision-makers will sharpen their focus. For Kelowna and British Columbia as a whole, this conference may represent a pivotal moment where the industry not only rebounds, but leaps forward.