Three “Spark” tourism innovation program pitches earned their creators $3,000 each in seed money and mentorship to help get their ideas rolling.
The Spark program, applications for which closed in December, sought ideas, experiences and partnerships that would enhance and increase tourism to the Sunshine Coast/qathet region.
The three winners are:
- Ryan Barfoot for Lake Haven Sauna: Wellness on the Water
- Johanna Jackson for Ride Mount Mahony
- Adriana Lademann for This Tournament has Everything Dance
“Their innovative ideas are not only exciting but also directly address key needs in our region, helping to enhance the visitor experience during our shoulder seasons,” shared Sunshine Coast Tourism executive director Annie Wise in a congratulatory press release. “By supporting these new ideas and entrepreneurs, we hope to encourage longer stays, attract more year-round visitors, and fill gaps in our tourism offerings — creating lasting impact for our local businesses and community.”
On the southern Sunshine Coast, Lademann’s proposal to see the women, trans, two-spirit, non-binary inclusive draft-style hockey tournament, This Tournament Has Everything, partner with the Sunshine Coast Pride Society to include a Coast-wide dance found success. With more than 100 players coming from all over North America, the tournament "attracts not only players but also members of the 2SLGBTQAI+ community as spectators, fostering a vibrant, supportive atmosphere. Support from this grant will help grow the event further, establishing the Sunshine Coast as a hub for 'Queer Tourism' and creating an unforgettable experience for all involved," shared the blurb from Sunshine Coast Tourism.
Barfoot and Jackson’s proposals for a floating sauna experience on a Powell River lake and year-round shuttle access to a qathet area trail network, are both on the Northern Sunshine Coast.
The Sunshine Coast “Spark” Program is presented by Destination British Columbia in collaboration with Sunshine Coast Tourism, Vancouver, Coast & Mountains Tourism Region, Community Futures Sunshine Coast, Community Futures Powell River, and the Tourism Innovation Lab.
