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Our Vision, Mission & Strategic Plan

The Voice of the BC Tourism Industry

The Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) advocates for the interests of British Columbia’s $22.3 billion visitor economy (normalized year). As a not-for-profit tourism industry association, TIABC works collaboratively with its members – private sector tourism businesses, industry associations and destination marketing organizations – to ensure the best working environment for a competitive tourism industry.

TIABC’s Vision is for the tourism industry to be recognized as one of British Columbia’s leading and sustainable industries.

TIABC’S rolling three-year 2019-2022 Strategic Plan outlines four key priority areas that will guide the organization:

  1. Advocacy & Policy Development
  2. Membership & Strategic Alliances
  3. Strategic Communications & Government Relations
  4. Operational Sustainability & Excellence

TIABC’s Mission – as the primary advocate for British Columbia’s visitor economy, TIABC unites operators, sectors, DMO’s, government and residents to support and be passionate about making this province a great place for tourism.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Reconciliation
TIABC commits to champion the values of diversity, equity, inclusion and reconciliation by listening, learning and acting. We foster a working environment where we value and develop employees, directors, volunteers, members, advisors, contractors and partners of all backgrounds and experiences

In addition to offering full participation in programs, policy formulation and advocacy initiatives, TIABC endeavours to build respect, dignity, fairness, and equality in everything we do.

We pledge to share best practices in advocating for diversity, equity, inclusion and reconciliation within BC’s tourism and hospitality industry, and seek to achieve the annual goals and objectives we set around this topic to hold us accountable.

Our Sustainable Tourism Pledge
The Tourism Industry Association of BC, also known as TIABC, has signed the Sustainable Tourism 2030 Pledge, to demonstrate our commitment to improving the sustainability performance of our business and to demonstrate our commitment to improving the sustainability of our province between now and 2030.

The UN World Tourism Organization defines sustainable tourism as “tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities.”

Each year, TIABC will commit to measuring and improving our sustainability performance in the following ways:

o Measure our carbon footprint and find opportunities to reduce our emissions year over year
o Continue to have sustainability and environmental consciousness as part of our organizational thinking and framework.
o When building partnerships, ask potential partners if and what initiatives they are undertaking to support sustainability.
o Ensure work-related flights and accommodations are carbon offset when available.
o Utilize our provincial tourism network to support the education of sustainability at our annually delivered BC Tourism & Hospitality conference.

We encourage our industry stakeholders to join us in this movement.

🎉 Exciting News! 🎉

Fraser-Nicola's own MLA, Jackie Tegart, is thrilled to rally behind #TourismWeekCanada2024! She recognizes the immense positive impact tourism has on BC and firmly believes that #BCTourismCounts.  Let's continue to promote and celebrate the beauty of British Columbia together. 

📹: @tourismhcc
Happy Tourism Week! 🌍

Curious about the vital role tourism plays in our communities? Look no further! Hope Cascades region MP Mark Stahl shares his insights on why tourism matters now more than ever.
TIABC Director Dennis Innes (VCC Dean of Hospitality, Culinary & Baking) and CEO Walt Judas joined term 8 hospitality students, industry leaders, recent graduates, and faculty for a Philosopher's Cafe to discuss the state of the tourism and hospitality workforce this week at VCC's downtown Vancouver campus.
TIABC CEO Walt Judas with Tourism Abbotsford’s Barb Roberts & Clare Seeley, as well as VCM’s Chad Wetsch on a site visit to a land-based Tilapia fish farm owned and operated by the Sumas First Nation who are expanding their Fraser Valley holdings with ambitious plans to bolster Abbotsford’s tourism infrastructure and experiences.
As he does regularly, TIABC CEO Walt Judas recently presented to tourism students and faculty at @westerncommunitycollege's (WCC) Surrey campus, focussing on industry issues and TIABC's advocacy priorities. Walt also serves on WCC's Program Advisory Committee (PAC), as well as the PACs of @capilanou and @myvcc.
🍽️ What an incredible farm-to-table experience! Backyard Farm Proprietor and Chef Chris Van Hooydonk welcomed TOTA's Board of Directors and guests Walt Judas, Richard Porges (DBC CEO) and Scott Fraser (DBC Chair) for a memorable meal in Osoyoos this week.

Chris's culinary philosophy focuses on utilizing the freshest, locally sourced ingredients to create unique, tailored menus for each visit. With a commitment to true hospitality, the experience is marked by attentive service and a passion for showcasing the beauty of the South Okanagan.

Also pictured, Destination Osoyoos Executive Director Kelley Glazer, TOTA CEO Ellen Walker Matthews, and TOTA's Jane Parece. 

A huge thank you to Chris for providing such a delightful culinary experience! 🌿