Two previous Northern Development proponents are being recognized among the province’s best, taking home wins at the 2026 BC Tourism Industry Awards, held in Kelowna from March 4-6. The annual awards celebrate excellence, leadership and innovation across British Columbia’s tourism and hospitality sector, highlighting the people and organizations helping shape the industry. This year, the Tse’K’wa Heritage Society and Tourism Prince George stood out for their work in cultural tourism and destination development.
Both organizations are past recipients of Northern Development funding, showing the value of strong partnerships in helping bring tourism projects to life. Through investments in cultural infrastructure, marketing, and economic development, Northern Development has supported initiatives that not only enhance visitor experiences, but also strengthen local economies and celebrate the unique stories of Northern B.C.
The Tse’K’wa Heritage Society, located near Charlie Lake, received the Indigenous Operator Experience Award for its work at the Tse’K’wa National Historic Site. Through combined investments of $320,000, Northern Development supported parts of this broader vision, including the development of the Tse’K’wa Cultural Centre and the organization’s branding and online presence. These efforts have helped visitor experience through interpretive trails, an outdoor amphitheatre, and cultural programming, while learning about Dane Zaa stories, artifacts, and traditions in a meaningful way.
“It is a great honour to be recognized. This award speaks to the hard work that’s gone into developing the overall experience at Tse’k’wa National Historic Site. The stories of our ancestors come alive for new generations at Tse’k’wa. We’ve created a space where people can come to learn, reflect, and connect to the land,” said Garry Oker, President, Tse’k’wa Heritage Society.
Tourism Prince George was recognized with the award for Professional Excellence, DMO (Destination Marketing Organization) or Sector Association. Supported in part by $300,000 in Northern Development funding, the Tourism Prince George Visitor Information Centre Relocation and Enhancements project is one of several initiatives contributing to this success. Relocating the Visitor Information Centre to a more central downtown location within the Prince George Conference and Civic Centre has helped improve visibility and access, while connecting visitors to nearby amenities, events, and attractions. An open-air container market in the area creates new opportunities for local businesses and add to the overall visitor experience.
“It’s an honour to be recognized at a provincial level. This reflects the work of many people who are committed to growing tourism in Prince George and the surrounding region,” said Scott McWalter, Executive Director, Tourism Prince George. “Projects like the Visitor Information Center relocation have helped create stronger connections to the community and encouraging people to stay longer and explore more.”
The evening also highlighted additional talent across Northern B.C., with recognition for past proponents and partners, including Northern FanCon’s Norm Coyne, who received a nomination for Tourism Business Person of the Year, and Spinal Cord Injury BC, nominated for Innovation. Together, these achievements reflect a growing momentum in Northern B.C.’s tourism industry – driven by collaboration and a shared effort to showcase the region on a larger stage.
