Tourism Richmond opens applications for mentorship program to build new local experiences
Tourism Richmond is accepting applications for its Pacific. Authentic. Experiences Launchpad program, which will give three selected participants eight months of mentorship and $5,000 to launch tourism experiences in the city. Applications close November 27.
Reported. A news outlet found this. voche.me names the outlet and links its report. Read the original report on richmond-news.com.
Tourism Richmond is accepting applications for a mentorship program that will help three participants develop new tourism experiences in the city, Richmond News reported November 3.
The program, called the Pacific. Authentic. Experiences Launchpad, will give each selected participant eight months of one-on-one mentorship, $5,000 in funding, in-kind marketing support from Tourism Richmond and access to workshops and a peer network.
"We already have an incredible array of things to do here, but we need more," Nancy Small, CEO of Tourism Richmond, told Richmond News.
What the program is looking for
Tourism Richmond said it wants ideas focused on food, diverse culture, the coastal setting and connections to nature. The program is part of Tourism Richmond's 10-year Tourism Master Plan.
Applications are open to individuals 18 and older, as well as new or existing entrepreneurs, small businesses, non-profits, community groups and cultural organizations. A fully developed experience idea is not required. Tourism Richmond asks for a clear concept with a meaningful connection to Richmond and a commitment to bring it to life.
Tourism Richmond is working with consultant Alex Berlyand, who works in tourism and destination development, to deliver the program.
How to apply and what comes next
Applications are on the Tourism Richmond website at visitrichmondbc.com/Launchpad and close on Friday, November 27 at 5 pm. Applicants must complete a short form and submit a one-minute self-recorded video describing their tourism experience idea, its connection to Richmond and how the program can help them bring it to life.
In January 2027, five short-listed applicants will pitch their ideas to a panel. Three will be chosen to receive the full mentorship and funding package.
The City of Richmond's new mayor and council took office on November 2, 2026. Their pages and tracked promises, including commitments to economic development in Richmond, are at /bc/richmond-2026/tracker.
Questions this story answers
What is Tourism Richmond's Launchpad program?
Tourism Richmond's Pacific. Authentic. Experiences Launchpad program supports people who want to develop new tourism experiences in Richmond. Three participants will be chosen to receive eight months of one-on-one mentorship, $5,000 in funding, in-kind marketing support from Tourism Richmond, and access to workshops and a peer network. The program is part of Tourism Richmond's 10-year Tourism Master Plan, as reported by Richmond News.
Who can apply to the Launchpad program?
Applications are open to individuals 18 and older, including new or existing entrepreneurs, small businesses, non-profits, community groups and cultural organizations. A fully developed idea is not required. Tourism Richmond asks for a clear concept with a connection to Richmond and a commitment to bring it to life, according to Richmond News.
What is the application deadline for the Tourism Richmond Launchpad?
Applications close on Friday, November 27, 2026, at 5 pm. Applicants must complete a short form and submit a one-minute self-recorded video describing their tourism experience idea, its connection to Richmond, and how the program can help. The application is on the Tourism Richmond website at visitrichmondbc.com/Launchpad.
What kinds of ideas is Tourism Richmond looking for?
Tourism Richmond is focused on ideas centred around food, diverse culture, the coastal setting and connection to nature. The program is meant to increase new tourism experiences in Richmond. Nancy Small, CEO of Tourism Richmond, told Richmond News: 'We already have an incredible array of things to do here, but we need more.'
What happens after the application deadline?
In January 2027, five short-listed applicants will pitch their ideas to a panel. After the pitch, three will be chosen to receive the full mentorship and funding package. Tourism Richmond is working with consultant Alex Berlyand, who works in tourism and destination development, to deliver the program.
What is Tourism Richmond?
Tourism Richmond is Richmond's destination marketing organization. It promotes the city as a tourism destination and runs programs like the Pacific. Authentic. Experiences Launchpad to grow local tourism offerings. The City of Richmond's elected council and mayor oversee the broader policies that shape Richmond's business environment. Their pages and tracked promises are at /bc/richmond-2026/tracker.
Who is delivering the Launchpad program with Tourism Richmond?
Tourism Richmond is working with consultant Alex Berlyand, who works in tourism and destination development, to deliver the program. The program is part of Tourism Richmond's 10-year Tourism Master Plan, as reported by Richmond News.
Where can someone find the Launchpad application?
The application is on the Tourism Richmond website at visitrichmondbc.com/Launchpad. Applicants must complete a short form and submit a one-minute self-recorded video describing their idea, its connection to Richmond and how the program can help. Applications close November 27, 2026, at 5 pm.
Sources
The pages this story draws on. Open one to check a claim yourself.
Found an error? Tell the editors with the corrections form. A correction is noted on the story it changes. Read our standards.
