The Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission is accepting applications for its Agri-tourism Business Planning Program that will provide assistance to up to eight new or early-stage agri-tourism operators in the Central Okanagan Region.  The project is focused on providing assistance to the participants in developing a detailed business plan in preparation for the 2014 tourism season.

This program is based on recent research that has identified best opportunities for agri-tourism development in the Central Okanagan as well as the skills and abilities associated with successful agri-tourism operators. This is a subsidized program that makes significant professional and technical expertise available:  participants will undergo a customized business planning process which includes educational presenters and workshops on such topics as market research and planning, financial management, hiring and managing employees, and customer service – with programs tailored to the needs of the participants selected.  Participants will also receive one-on-one coaching and guidance in the preparation of their business plans.
Selected participants will meet the following criteria:

-  Own or have the goal of operating an agri-tourism business on land zoned for agricultural use and located within the boundaries of the Central Okanagan Region;

-  Have a basic concept for the type of agri-tourism business they are considering and why it would be successful in the Central Okanagan;

-  Willing and able to commit up to 10 hours per week between November, 2013 and March, 2014 to attend education programs, conduct market research activities, and write their plans, as well as spend one-on-one meeting time with the business planning specialist.
 
-  A fee of $500 is required to cover basic costs (education programs, resource materials, workbooks, meeting space, etc.)

Interested Applicants: Please provide a brief description of your agri-tourism concept and business background by Monday, October 28, 2013.

Applications may be made by:
email to info@investkelowna.com
or
mailed/dropped off to the COEDC
1450 KLO Road, Kelowna, BC, V1W 3Z4
labelled “Agri-Tourism Program”

Phone inquiries:  (250) 469-6280

Applicants may also wish to review the rationale for this project and research conducted into agri-tourism opportunities in the Central Okanagan in the Agri-Tourism Opportunities Pilot Project report available at:   http://www.investkelowna.com/resources.html

News from © iNFOnews, 2013