Tourism Kelowna's Business Development team kicked off its 2025 client events with a two-city visit designed to foster meaningful connections and highlight the unique value of hosting meetings and conferences in our region. The trip began in Vancouver, where we welcomed clients to a morning networking event at the picturesque VanDusen Botanical Garden.
Set against the backdrop of blooming spring gardens, guests participated in a “Bee Conscious” workshop led by WholeHearted—a thoughtful and interactive session exploring the essential role pollinators play in our ecosystems. With environmental and social responsibility at the heart of our work, this activity aligned perfectly with our values and offered an engaging way to spark conversation and connection.
Partners that Bring Kelowna to Life
We were proud to be joined by a number of our industry partners who helped bring the event to life and showcased the depth and diversity of Kelowna’s meetings and events community.
Representatives from 50th Parallel Estate, Château Okanagan, Cantrav, CedarCreek Estate Winery, Coast Capri Hotel, Delta Hotels by Marriott Grand Okanagan Resort, Eldorado Resort, Four Points by Sheraton Kelowna Airport, Mission Hill Family Estate, Ramada Inn & Suites Kelowna, and Sandhill Wines came out to connect with clients, share their offerings, and reinforce the collaborative spirit that defines our destination. Events like this allow us to not only showcase what Kelowna has to offer, but to create space for meaningful conversation and build relationships that directly support our members.
An Inspiring Morning in Seattle
The following morning, a smaller Kelowna contingent travelled south to Seattle to continue building relationships with two long-standing clients. FareStart, the inspiring venue where we met, is known for its transformative job training programs and community-based mission—it was the ideal setting for a conversation rooted in collaboration and forward thinking. After breakfast, we had the opportunity to tour the facility and further connect with the values behind their work.
Why Kelowna is on the Radar
Seattle continues to be a strong market for Kelowna, with growing interest from businesses looking north to Canada for fresh, dynamic destinations. With our city’s thriving mix of entrepreneurs, innovation in tech, and deep agricultural roots, Kelowna offers an ideal setting for conferences and meetings that are both productive and inspiring. Accessible, welcoming, and purpose-driven, Kelowna is uniquely positioned to deliver meaningful experiences for planners and their attendees.
Creating Lasting Connections for Future Growth
Events like these not only give us a chance to deepen relationships in key markets, but also offer our industry partners the opportunity to tell their stories, showcase their venues and services, and ultimately drive business back to our community. We’re excited to keep the momentum going and continue supporting planners as they look ahead to their next meeting or event.
If you want to discuss hosting your next event in Kelowna, or if you'd like to learn more about Tourism Kelowna's business development activities in Western Canada and U.S., contact me at nicole@tourismkelowna.com or at (778) 583-0807.
