DOWNLOAD The TIAC Tourism Congress 2024 Challenge Pass – Powered by Bandwango
Heading to Tourism Congress? Download the Bandwango App! Sign up below to stay informed on everything "Congress", including the Program for the entire event. With Bandwango, you’ll have instant access to session information, speaker details, and live updates to make sure you stay on top of everything at Congress. As you explore Congress, network with your peers, and learn strategies to take your business to the next level, participate in the TIAC Tourism Congress Challenge Pass—an interactive engagement tool designed to connect exhibitors with delegates. Earn points for check-ins, redeemable for prize entries, including passes to next year's Congress! It's simple, indispensable, and fun!
Program At A Glance
Join the TIAC Tourism Congress 2024 to connect with industry leaders, gain valuable insights, and collaboratively tackle current challenges in Canadian tourism.
Event Location: Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre Hotel, 1000 Burrard Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, V6Z 2R9
(Subject to Change)
Tuesday, December 3, 2024 |
||||
Time |
Session Description |
|||
Workshops9:00 am - 12:00 pm |
Introduction to Export READInessLocation: Pavilion Ballroom A Are you interested in extending your market reach beyond traditional clients to gain access to new and larger international tourism markets? This workshop will introduce you to the numerous benefits of working with Travel Trade. You will also learn how your business or region can access key international markets. While this is an intro session, once businesses achieve the Export READI designation, they will have the opportunity to be included on TIAC's national Tourism registry. The READI Stamp program, administered by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC), signifies a commitment to excellence within the tourism sector. Facilitator:
|
|||
Advancing Sustainability in Tourism: An Experiential Workshop for Leaders and ManagersLocation: Pavilion Ballroom C Discover an experiential, hands-on workshop designed for tourism leaders, business owners, and managers seeking to advance sustainability in their operations. Led by GreenStep Solutions, this 3-hour session introduces participants to essential concepts and benefits of integrating a sustainability strategy into their business. Key definitions and terminology, related to sustainable and regenerative tourism, will be shared as well as a proven framework to help guide you towards the implementation of a plan for continuous improvement. Through interactive discussions and real-life examples, attendees will explore how to apply the globally recognized GreenStep Sustainable Tourism criteria. They will conduct a baseline assessment of their current practices, identifying key areas for enhancement. The workshop encourages peer-to-peer learning while fostering collaboration on actionable strategies and solutions. While completing an online sustainability assessment beforehand is recommended, it's not mandatory. This tool equips participants with valuable insights to refine their sustainability plans during the workshop. By the end, participants will leave with a clear understanding of sustainable tourism principles and a practical roadmap to implement effective sustainability initiatives. Facilitators:
|
||||
Delicious Storytelling 101Location: Pavilion Ballroom D Join Gabrielle Mueller, Marketing Manager at the Culinary Tourism Alliance, for a 3-hour workshop on the art of delicious food storytelling. In the first part of this hands-on session, you'll discover who the food tourist is, what they crave, and how to captivate their attention. Learn valuable tips and tricks to immediately enhance your food storytelling across social media, menus, and websites. Next, put your newfound knowledge to work by creating a written piece about your business during the workshop. Benefit from real-time feedback from the CTA team and fellow participants. This inclusive workshop is designed to be a safe space for everyone to flex their creative muscles and produce truly irresistible content. Join us to transform your food storytelling into a feast for the senses! Facilitator:
|
||||
Flourishing in Tourism: Building Your Capacity to Flourish in the FutureLocation: Junior Ballroom C What does a flourishing future look like for your organization? What could the Canadian tourism sector look like if we all focused on flourishing? Join Trevor Jonas Benson and Camilo Montoya-Guevara of Bannikin in exploring your inspiring vision and what you can do now to improve your chances of flourishing in the future. In this workshop, you will learn about a more efficient, effective, and integrated strategic planning process that takes seriously both desirable and probable futures. You will get hands-on experience with the Flourishing Business Canvas, gaining business model design and storytelling capacity as part of the process. Most important, you will take away valuable insight into the contexts and perspectives that you need to consider, and the questions you need to answer, in order to take full account of your organization and ensure that it is fit for the 21st century. Facilitators:
|
||||
Managing Environmental & Social Impacts with Visitor Use Management FrameworkLocation: Pavilion Ballroom B The Visitor Use Management Framework (VUMF) is an adaptable process for managing visitor use across public lands, protected areas and outdoor recreation destinations – this session will focus on recreational trails.
Facilitator:
|
||||
12:00 pm - 1:30 pm |
Networking LunchLocation: Junior AB |
|||
1:30 pm - 4:30 pm |
Canada's National Forum on Disaster Readiness and ResponseLocation: Pavilion CD This forum focuses on three areas of disaster: global warming, pandemics, and natural disasters. Candace Campo from Talaysay Tours will speak on the impact of global warming on Canadian tourism, and the challenges that many First Nations communities face as a result. TIAC's CEO Beth Potter will then speak on COVID-19. She will share best practices and how TIAC is prepared for any future global health disasters. To end the session, Beth will be joined by Amy Thacker from Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association, Wendy Magnes from the British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, and Anita Ballantyne-Berthier from Destination Canada. Together they will share their experiences managing major disasters and the solutions they implemented. Don't miss this incredible session that will prepare you and your business should disaster strike your region. Moderator:
|
|||
Wednesday, December 4, 2024 |
||||
8:00 am - 9:00 am |
Networking Breakfast, Goodkey Delegate Lounge & MarketplaceLocation: Junior Ballroom Start your day with a nourishing breakfast, reconnect with familiar faces, build new connections, and engage with our exhibitors |
|||
9:00 am - 9:30 am |
Welcome Remarks and Indigenous WelcomeLocation: Grand Ballroom Speakers:
|
|||
9:30 am - 10:15 am |
Embracing the Journey: The Power of Canada's Tourism Industry with Jon MontgomeryLocation: Grand Ballroom Join Jon Montgomery, Gold Medal Olympian and Host of The Amazing Race Canada, as he takes us on an inspiring journey through Canada's vibrant tourism industry. In this captivating session, Jon will share his unique perspective on exploring and appreciating the value and gifts of Canada’s tourism landscape. Hear firsthand about the incredible destinations he has visited, the diverse people and cultures he has encountered, and the unforgettable experiences that have fueled his pride in being Canadian. Jon will also reflect on his pride in representing Canada on the world stage during the 2010 Winter Olympics, and how that experience has deepened his appreciation for Canada's tourism treasures. From coast to coast, Jon's adventures reveal the heart and soul of Canada’s tourism ecosystem, highlighting the extraordinary beauty and hospitality that make Canada a world-class travel destination. Don't miss this opportunity to be inspired by Jon’s stories and insights, celebrating the essence of what makes Canada truly special. Speaker:
|
|||
10:15 am - 11:30 am |
State of the Industry: Leadership Report & Innovation ForumLocation: Grand Ballroom Kick off this dynamic session with an inspiring look back at the past year, highlighting the major milestones and key developments that have shaped Canadian tourism. TIAC’s President & CEO, Beth Potter, will then deliver an in-depth leadership report, exploring the challenges, successes, and opportunities that lie ahead. Following the report, engage in an interactive Innovation Sprint and Feedback Forum, where participants can collaborate, share insights, and contribute to future strategies for strengthening the tourism sector. Speaker:
|
|||
11:30 am – 12 pm |
Goodkey Delegate Lounge and MarketplaceLocation: Junior Ballroom Enjoy a nutritious snack, mingle with old friends, make new connections, and meet our exhibitors. It's the perfect setting to foster relationships and explore the latest in tourism offerings. |
|||
12:00 pm - 1:15 pm |
Air Canada Future Leaders Luncheon: Shaping Tomorrow’s Tourism: Empowering Future LeadersLocation: Grand Ballroom Join us at the Air Canada Future Leaders Luncheon, an inspiring event dedicated to the next generation of tourism professionals featuring a compelling presentation on building a successful career in the tourism industry. Additionally, we will celebrate the achievements of this year's Air Canada Future Tourism Leaders Contest winners: Gabrielle Heschuk, Ramachandran Gomathi, Harshveer Dhaliwal, and Tiffany Sanford. |
|||
Concurrent Sessions1:15 pm - 2:00 pm |
From Caution to Confidence: How to Stop Worrying and Learn to Love AILocation: Pavilion Ballroom D In the realm of cultural tourism, AI integration offers exciting opportunities and unique challenges for museums and cultural sites. Join interactive designer Corey King as he delves into the development of Artefacta, an innovative AI-curation platform that is revolutionizing the industry. This session will illuminate how AI can dramatically enhance visitor engagement and offer tailored experiences across diverse institutions. Learn best practices for maintaining authenticity and accessibility, strategies to overcome resistance to new technologies, and explore future trends that AI brings to the tourism landscape. Don't miss this chance to discover how AI is transforming the cultural tourism experience and shaping the future of the industry. Speaker:
|
|||
Telling Your Destination's Taste-of-Place StoryLocation: Pavilion Ballroom C Each destination boasts a unique "taste of place" story that sets it apart, offering visitors a memorable culinary journey that reflects its heritage and flavors. From dining in historic kilns to savoring wines that embody the local terroir, each experience is distinctive and rich with cultural significance. Join Gabrielle Mueller, Marketing Manager for the Culinary Tourism Alliance, as she leads a compelling panel featuring industry leaders from Discover Halifax, Tourism Thunder Bay, and Tourism Medicine Hat. This session will delve into the art of effectively sharing these culinary stories with targeted audiences, highlighting the profound economic impact of culinary tourism. Learn how to leverage your region’s unique gastronomic experiences to attract visitors, stimulate local economies, and elevate your destination’s profile on the global stage. Moderator:
|
||||
Navigating the Future: Emerging and Key Sectors in Canadian TourismLocation: Pavilion Ballroom AB Join our expert panel as they delve into the dynamic sectors reshaping the Canadian tourism landscape. This session will spotlight emerging trends and innovations that are driving economic impact and diversifying the tourism industry. Explore the rise of RVing and road trips and their growing economic significance. Learn about the transformative effects of wellness tourism, where travellers seek rejuvenation and holistic experiences. Discover the growing impact of sport tourism, which attracts visitors through major sporting events and boosts local economies. Finally, understand the substantial contributions of meetings, conventions, and business events to local economies. Gain valuable insights into how these segments are enhancing the resilience and future of destinations across Canada. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with industry leaders and uncover the potential of these key tourism sectors. Moderator:
|
||||
2:00 pm - 2:30 pm |
Goodkey Delegate Lounge and MarketplaceLocation: Junior Ballroom Enjoy a nutritious snack, mingle with old friends, make new connections, and meet our exhibitors. It's the perfect setting to foster relationships and explore the latest in tourism offerings. |
|||
2:30 pm - 3:30 pm |
National Tourism Panel Session: Enhancing Canada's Global Competitiveness Through TransportationLocation: Grand Ballroom An insightful panel discussion featuring leading experts from the airline, rail, and motorcoach industries. This dynamic session will delve into how groundbreaking advancements across these transportation modes are propelling Canada’s global competitiveness. Key topics include enhancing accessibility, fostering innovation, improving interconnectivity, streamlining border access, and tackling critical infrastructure challenges. Join us to gain valuable perspectives on how these developments are shaping the future of transportation in Canada and positioning the nation as a leader on the world stage. Moderator:
|
|||
3:30 pm - 4:30 pm |
Spend More and Stay Longer: Harnessing the Growing Value of Cultural TourismLocation: Grand Ballroom Did you know that the global cultural tourism market size was USD 6.08 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 17.81 billion by 2032? Did you know that arts and culture tourists are more likely to spend more and stay longer? Visitor spending associated with live music alone, in 2023, is estimated at $9.9B. If there was a time for culture and tourism to work more closely together, it is now. Join this session as we explore how to better leverage Canadian stories, stars, stages, and spectacles through integration, collaboration, and partnerships. Our panel of experts will delve into the rapidly expanding role cultural tourism plays in strengthening Canada's appeal to international and domestic visitors alike. Together, we’ll discuss how to elevate cultural tourism experiences and support communities in showcasing their stories authentically and impactfully. Attendees will gain insights into best practices, innovative collaborations, and strategies for integrating cultural elements into the broader tourism ecosystem, ensuring that these vital stories and experiences remain accessible, sustainable, and valued within Canada’s tourism framework. Moderator:
|
|||
4:30 pm - 4:45 pm |
End-of-Day Wrap-Up |
|||
6:00 pm |
Transportation From The Hotel |
|||
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm |
Welcome Reception - Vancouver AquariumLocation: Vancouver Aquarium - 845 Avison Way, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2 Join us for an unforgettable Welcome Reception at the Vancouver Aquarium on Wednesday, December 4, to conclude the first day of the Tourism Industry Association of Canada's 2024 Tourism Congress. Nestled in Stanley Park, the Aquarium offers a stunning backdrop for networking and celebration. Enjoy exclusive access to aquatic exhibits featuring diverse marine life while savoring gourmet hors d'oeuvres and refreshments. Connect with industry leaders and peers in this unique setting, blending professional engagement with the natural beauty of one of Vancouver's landmarks. Unwind and foster new connections within Canada's vibrant tourism community. |
|||
Thursday, December 5, 2024 |
||||
8:00 am - 9:00 am |
Networking Breakfast, Goodkey Delegate Lounge and MarketplaceLocation: Junior Ballroom Start your day with a nourishing breakfast, reconnect with familiar faces, build new connections, and engage with our exhibitors |
|||
9:00 am - 9:15 am |
Morning Kick-Off WelcomeSpeaker:
|
|||
9:15 am - 10:15 am |
Destination Canada Session: How Brand Leadership Will Power Canada’s Tourism FutureLocation: Grand Ballroom With technology evolving rapidly and traveler expectations shifting, staying true to Brand Canada has never been more important—or more challenging. Join Gloria Loree, Senior Vice-President of Marketing Strategy and Chief Marketing Officer at Destination Canada, as she explores the role of brand love and how Canada’s distinctive strengths can be the superpower that keeps our tourism sector resilient, even amidst huge disruption. Following her presentation, Gloria will moderate a panel of brand leaders and experts to discuss how brand leadership can help us navigate the path ahead. Speaker:
|
|||
Concurrent Sessions10:15 am - 11:00 am |
Ensuring Tourism Thrives When All Belong: Powering Canadian Tourism Through Inclusive and Accessible EmploymentLocation: Pavilion Ballroom C The Canadian tourism sector is at a crucial juncture where inclusivity and accessibility can drive growth and resilience. The session "Ensuring Tourism Thrives When All Belong" explores how inclusive employment practices can transform the sector. By creating workplaces that support individuals, including those with disabilities, the industry can leverage diverse talents to boost innovation and enhance guest experiences. Delegates will learn from diverse perspectives, including employees with disabilities, small business owners, HR professionals, and accessibility experts. The session will cover best practices, legal and ethical responsibilities, economic benefits, and societal impacts of inclusive tourism. Attendees will gain actionable insights to foster a supportive environment and improve business performance, customer satisfaction, and brand reputation. Join us to explore how embracing inclusivity and accessibility can power the future of Canadian tourism. Moderator:
|
|||
Navigating Tomorrow: How DMOs Are Addressing the Ongoing Challenges in Our SectorLocation: Pavilion Ballroom AB This session explores critical issues like sustainable tourism, crisis management, and technological advancements – and how DMOs are indispensable to their communities. Hear top DMO CEOs talk about balancing tourism growth with environmental responsibility, adapting to economic shifts, and safeguarding cultural heritage. Discussions will also cover enhancing destination competitiveness and fostering community benefits through destination stewardship. Through a panel discussion and interactive Q&A, attendees will gain actionable strategies to address these challenges, ensuring the long-term success and sustainability of their destinations Moderator:
|
||||
Sustainable Tourism: Global Trends and Canada's PerformanceLocation: Pavilion Ballroom D Explore the evolving landscape of sustainable tourism, focusing on emerging global trends and Canada's pivotal role in this transformation. This session offers a deep dive into compelling case studies and data, shedding light on the real-world implications of the EU Green Claims Directives and GSTC standards. Gain practical guidance on navigating complex regulations, enabling your organization to enhance sustainability efforts, avoid the pitfalls of greenwashing, and implement truly effective practices. Whether you’re an industry leader, policymaker, or sustainability advocate, this session provides the tools and insights necessary to stay ahead in the rapidly changing world of sustainable tourism. Speaker:
|
||||
11:00 am - 11:45 am |
Goodkey Delegate Lounge and MarketplaceLocation: Junior Ballroom Enjoy a nutritious snack, mingle with old friends, make new connections, and meet our exhibitors. It's the perfect setting to foster relationships and explore the latest in tourism offerings. |
|||
11:45 am - 1:00 pm |
WestJet LuncheonLocation: Grand Ballroom Join Andrew, Amanda, and Jared, three WestJet leaders, as they delve into the airline's ambitious growth strategy, its collaboration with, and its impact on Canada's tourism industry, moderated by Christina. From expanding into new markets in Asia and Europe to building global alliances and enhancing domestic affordability and connectivity, this session will explore how WestJet is shaping the future of travel and driving growth in the visitor economy. |
|||
Concurrent Sessions1:00 pm - 1:45 pm |
Building Partnerships and Employment Pipelines with Canadian Educational ProgramsLocation : Pavilion Ballroom AB Join us for an insightful panel discussion that introduces the Canadian Coalition of Tourism Universities, highlighting its vision and mission to strengthen the tourism industry through education. This session will present a comprehensive model for developing a pipeline approach to connect students with the industry through a structured hosting program. Moderator:
|
|||
Harnessing the Spotlight of Major Events – Lessons Learned and Future StrategiesLocation: Pavilion Ballroom C
With major events such as FIFA Men's World Cup 2026, the Invictus Games in Whistler & Vancouver 2025, how are our communities, cities, provinces/territories and Canada leveraging the most out of the influx of visitors and eyeball from the global media covering these events? Gain insights from Tourism Kingston, Destination Vancouver, Destination Toronto and Destination Canada, on how to harness that spotlight to generate wealth and wellbeing as well as drive this deeper into communities across Canada. Join us to explore strategies to successfully leverage the buzz of large-scale events, how we work as Team Canada and build legacies with lasting impact. Moderator:
|
||||
Navigating Challenges and Seizing Opportunities in Canadian Tourism InvestmentLocation: Pavilion Ballroom D Join us for an insightful session that delves into the complexities of investing in the Canadian tourism industry. Our panel of experts will examine significant challenges such as economic fluctuations, regulatory hurdles, and global events. They will also offer strategic solutions for overcoming these obstacles, providing valuable insights to help you navigate and seize opportunities in this dynamic sector. You will also hear about some key types of succession planning that tourism businesses are navigating for future. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from industry leaders and enhance your investment strategies in Canadian tourism. Moderator:
|
||||
1:45 pm - 2:15 pm |
Networking Break and Goodkey Delegate Lounge with ExhibitsLocation: Junior Ballroom Enjoy a nutritious snack, mingle with old friends, make new connections, and meet our exhibitors. It's the perfect setting to foster relationships and explore the latest in tourism offerings. |
|||
2:15 pm - 3:15 pm |
Strengthening Canada's Global Position: A National Panel on Enhancing CompetitivenessLocation: Grand Ballroom Join us for a dynamic and insightful discussion as leading national organizations come together to tackle the pressing issue of Canada's global competitiveness in tourism. This national panel features representatives from the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, Hotel Association of Canada, Tourism HR Canada, Restaurants Canada, Destination Canada, and Parks Canada. Through collaborative dialogue, these experts will explore innovative strategies and actionable solutions to bolster Canada's standing as a premier global destination. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable perspectives and contribute to shaping the future of Canada's tourism industry. Moderator:
|
|||
3:15 pm - 4:15 pm |
Congress Showdown: A Spirited Debate on Tourism's Challenges with Plenty of LaughsLocation: Grand Ballroom Close out this year’s Tourism Congress with an entertaining and thought-provoking session as teams of industry professionals tackle some of tourism's hottest topics. With wit, humour, and sharp commentary, our debaters will dive into issues like the rise of AI in travel planning, the debate around destination fees and over-tourism, and the impact of remote work on local economies. Who will come out on top? You, the audience, will be the ultimate judges! Expect plenty of laughs, a dash of controversy, and fresh perspectives on where Canadian tourism is headed. This light-hearted yet insightful session will remind us that while our industry faces serious challenges, a bit of humour and creative thinking can drive collaboration and inspire innovation. Host:
|
|||
4:15 pm - 4:30 pm |
Wrap-Up |
|||
5:30 pm - 6:00 pm |
Canadian Tourism Awards Finalists ReceptionInvitation Only |
|||
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm |
Canadian Tourism Awards ReceptionLocation: Grand Ballroom Foyer |
|||
7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
|
Canadian Tourism Awards Dinner and Awards GalaLocation: Grand Ballroom |