SURREY City Council on Monday will consider expanding the eligibility of the Sport Tourism Grant Program to include hosting sport tourism conferences. These conferences play a key role in attracting industry leaders and event organizers to the City, generating new opportunities to host higher-calibre events.

“The enhancements to the Sport Tourism Grant Program aren’t just about expanding funding; they represent our commitment to cultivating local talent, drawing high-calibre sporting events, and energizing our community’s economic growth,” said Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke.

“Council recognizes the significant injection sports tourism has on our local economy, which is why an additional $500,000 in funding was allocated to Sport Tourism Grants in April. Tonight, Council has the opportunity to further build on our growing reputation as a premier sports destination with the proposed updates to expand eligibility criteria for the grants.”

If approved by Council, the eligibility for a Sport Tourism Grant would expand to include sport tourism conferences and event expenses. The updated guidelines also include an increase in program funding levels, with a maximum of $15,000 available per event.

Sport Tourism is growing exponentially in Surrey. In 2024, its economic impact totalled $10,297,377 which was an increase of 151 per cent from 2022. As the City continues to prioritize capital investments in sport facilities and amenities, the development of sport hosting opportunities will continue to expand, generating a greater and more significant economic impact on the community.

For information about sport tourism in Surrey, visit surrey.ca/sportsurrey.