Convention Centre

Tourism Kamloops, in partnership with Sc.wén̓wen Economic Development Corporation — the business and economic development arm of Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc — is exploring the potential development of a convention centre as part of a long-term vision for economic growth, community vibrancy, and year-round tourism. A recent feasibility study examined whether a facility of this kind is viable, the benefits it could bring, and key considerations that need to be addressed. This work reflects a shared commitment to exploring the opportunity early, ensuring any future development aligns with community values and creates positive economic impacts for businesses, members, and the broader community. The following questions and answers provide clear, straightforward information to help residents understand the proposal and what it could mean for the future of Kamloops.

The project’s funding and financial structure have not yet been finalized. As with most convention centres, the primary value comes from long-term economic activity—such as increased tourism, business growth, and job creation—rather than direct operating profits. A range of financing approaches are being explored, including opportunities for private investment and alternative partnership models. Any public funding would come before Council for consideration.

Kamloops currently has limited space for larger conferences. Existing venues can accommodate smaller events, but the city is unable to attract many regional, provincial, and national conferences due to space constraints. A convention centre would help fill this gap and allow Kamloops to compete with similar-sized destinations.

The study found there is market potential, especially if key conditions are met, such as improved air access. Currently, Kamloops is limited in its ability to attract larger events due to facility size, not lack of interest.

As with any major project, there are risks, including:

• Demand not meeting projections
• Competition from other cities
• Securing external funding sources, such as federal and provincial grants and potential private investment

The study notes that success will depend on strong management, effective marketing, and continued investment in transportation access.

Final timelines would depend on approvals, funding, and design.

The feasibility study is one step in the process. Next steps may include:

• Working group is formed to continue the conversation
• Public engagement and feedback
• Site selection and design refinement
• Funding and partnership development

A convention centre can provide a range of community benefits, including:

• Increased visitor spending in local businesses like restaurants, shops, and hotels, with approximately $8.0 million in annual visitor spending supporting over $10 million in local economic activity and over 28,000 hotel room nights
• Job creation during construction and ongoing operations, supporting over 70 local jobs and approximately $3.0 million in annual wages, in addition to construction-related employment
• More indoor space for local events, gatherings, and cultural activities, adding over 30,000 sq. ft. of event space and capacity for up to 2,450 people, well beyond current venue limits
• Opportunities to host larger Indigenous, community, and business events, including provincial and national gatherings, with the majority of attendees expected to come from outside the region
• Additional economic spin-offs, including increased demand for local services, suppliers, and future tourism and investment opportunities, generating over $17 million in total economic activity and $2.6 million in annual tax revenue

This project creates opportunities to work in partnership with Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc in meaningful ways; from incorporating culture and storytelling into the space, to supporting economic participation through procurement and business opportunities. It’s about building something together that reflects shared values and benefits the community as a whole.

Yes. The feasibility study estimates that a convention centre could generate approximately 28,300 additional hotel room nights annually, bringing new visitors to the city rather than shifting existing tourism. These are conferences and events that are currently being hosted in other destinations due to space limitations, meaning Kamloops has an opportunity to capture demand that is already going elsewhere.

Convention centres typically require some level of operating support. Their value comes from the economic activity they generate in the community, including tourism spending, business growth, and job creation.

The proposed convention centre aligns with broader community goals by:

• Supporting economic development and diversification, while building on Kamloops’ reputation as a leading host city
• Enhancing year-round tourism
• Providing additional community gathering space
• Contributing to downtown vibrancy and growth

Yes. In addition to conferences, convention centres are typically used for:

• Community events and celebrations
• Cultural gatherings and ceremonies
• Local meetings and banquets, particularly those that have outgrown existing venues