A tidy $2M handed out to Southern Interior tourism businesses

$240,000 for Niche Wine Company in West Kelowna.

Kelowna International Airport gets $174,000.

ZipZone Peachland collects $130,000.

Kartplex in Oliver is in for $185,000.

And the Shuswap Trail Alliance will receive $190,731.

They are just five of the 14 tourism businesses and organizations in the Southern Interior that are sharing in a cool $2,000,000 in funding from the Government of Canada's Pacific Economic Development 'Tourism Growth Program'.

The money is meant to enhance outdoor recreation, extend the tourist season and attract visitors to smaller communities.

"We're incredibly excited to partner with PacifiCan to bring our vision of mountain-top luxury accommodations to life in West Kelowna," said Joanna Schlosser, CEO of NIche Wine Company.

"This investment empowers us to diversify our farm into a premier agritourism destination, blending Okanagan wine, cuisine, and culture to create unforgettable experiences in a truly breathtaking setting."

Kelowna International Airport will use its cash to promote travelling during the shoulder seasons.

Kartplex in Oliver will be able to build new kart racing tracks with solar lighting and training simulators.

ZipZone Peachland will enhance its ziplines and put in a climbing wall.

Shuswap Trail Alliance will improve its network of hiking and mountain biking trails.

"The Southern Interior of British Columbia is home to world-class tourism attractions that showcase the stunning natural beauty and rich history and culture of our province," said Harjit S. Sajjan, minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency.

"PacifiCan is proud to support these organizations as they seize growth opportunities and create memorable experiences for both residents and visitors alike. The projects announced today will enhance tourism in rural communities, create good jobs and strengthen the local economy."

The other nine initiatives to get funding are:

- Black Jack Ski Club in Rossland, $250,000

- Columbia Valley Greenways Trail Alliance, $250,000

- $250,000 for CAPOW Guiding to improve its backcountry hiking tours near Revelstoke

- Kootenay Rockies Tourism, $110,000, to attract visitors to 20 rural communities along Highway 3

- $75,000 for Wettstone Guest Ranch to winterize cabins in the South Cariboo

- Yahk Soap & Candle Co., $62,108 to upgrade its Two Scoop Steve cafe and kitchen

- $42,000 for the Village of Nakusp to improve accessibility on the Nakusp Hot Springs Trail

- $39,000 for Spartwood Trails Alliance

- $18,950 for Trails to the Boundary Society to enhance its guided bike tours in Rock Creek