Tourism activity influences far more than visitor experiences alone. From retail and food services to arts, agriculture, transportation, and professional services, many businesses and organizations benefit from a strong and well-managed visitor economy. With that in mind, Tourism Cowichan, in partnership with the Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD), is inviting a broad range of local stakeholders to attend an upcoming Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT) Stakeholder Information Session.
The MRDT is an important funding tool used by many communities across British Columbia. The MRDT is a tax applied to sales of short-term accommodation provided in participating areas of BC. In the Cowichan region, MRDT revenues support tourism marketing, visitor services, and destination development initiatives that help attract visitors and encourage year-round economic activity. MRDT revenues from online accommodation platforms like Airbnb are used to support affordable housing initiatives.
Cowichan’s MRDT contract with the Province of BC is coming up for renewal, and Tourism Cowichan is hosting this virtual session to begin engaging with stakeholders on proposed changes.
Event details
- Date: Monday, February 2, 2026
- Time: 1:00–2:30 p.m.
- Location: Virtual
Why this session matters
This information session is designed to be accessible to anyone interested in understanding how the MRDT works and how decisions about MRDT-funded activities are made. Participants will learn more about:
- The proposed MRDT renewal for 2027–2031
- How MRDT funds are used to support tourism marketing, visitor services, and destination development in the Cowichan region
- A five-year strategic business plan that will guide MRDT-funded projects and priorities
- The engagement process for accommodation properties with four or more rooms offering short-term stays
- How to take part in upcoming in-person engagement sessions scheduled for February 19 and March 12, 2026
While accommodation providers play a formal role in collecting the tax, the impacts of MRDT investment extend well beyond the tourism sector. For many local businesses, tourism marketing decisions can influence customer traffic, seasonality, workforce needs, and partnership opportunities. This session offers a chance to ask questions, understand the trade-offs involved, and see how local priorities are shaping future plans.
Who should attend
This session is open to:
- Accommodation providers and tourism operators
- Retailers, restaurants, and service businesses
- Arts, culture, and event organizations
- Agriculture and food producers
- Economic development, non-profit, and community partners
- Anyone with an interest in tourism marketing or the MRDT program
Register and learn more
Advance registration is required.
👉 Register here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/municipal-and-regional-district-tax-mrdt-stakeholder-information-session-tickets-1980509619586?aff=oddtdtcreator
Questions can be directed to kenzie@tourismcowichan.com.
