In the North Okanagan, the Interior Health Authority (IHA) is the lead agency in response to the community impact of COVID-19. The City and Tourism Vernon continues to take its direction from the Province of B.C. and Government of Canada.
The following websites provide the latest updates on the novel coronavirus (COVID-19):
- Interior Health Agency (IHA)
- B.C. Ministry of Health
- BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC)
- Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC)
- World Health Organization (WHO)
Where can I find more information for my Tourism business?
Business Resources:
- #NOKTogether Campaign - Resources for North Okanagan Businesses
- Province of British Columbia - BC COVID-19 Action Plan
- Government of Canada - Economic Response Plan for Canadians and Businesses
- Government of Canada - Support for Tourism Businesses Affected by COVID-19 (.pdf)
- Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) - Support for Entrepreneurs Impacted by COVID-19
- Export Development Canada - Support for Canadian Exporters to Access Capital
- Workplace Mental Health BC - Mental Health Resources
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association:
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has partnered with BC regions to launch the Tourism Resiliency Program (TRP). This program will provide long-term one-on-one support to tourism businesses in order to navigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, adapt services, and work towards eventual recovery. There is no cost to participate in the program.
Learn more about the Tourism Resiliency Program here.
Tourism Business Resources:
- Province of British Columbia - B.C.'s response to COVID-19
- Government of Canada - Economic Response Plan for Canadians and Businesses
- Government of Canada - Support for Tourism Businesses Affected by COVID-19 (.pdf)
- Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) - Support for Entrepreneurs Impacted by COVID-19
- Export Development Canada - Support for Canadian Exporters to Access Capital
Destination BC's Top 5 Resources for Tourism Businesses During COVID 19:
Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce:
The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce has provided the following information on its website:
- Business and economic support links
- Education opportunities and updates
- Remote working tools and information
- Takeout, curbside and delivery options from local restaurants
Downtown Vernon Association:
The Downtown Vernon Association has provided the following information on its website:
- Updated information and guidelines from the federal government
- A checklist prepared by Small Business BC regarding business continuity during COVID-19
- Links to business support websites
BC Economic Development Association:
The BC Economic Development Association (BCEDA) has developed a shareable guide that is continually being updated with tools and resources to assist BC businesses.
