About

Our Mission

Heritage BC supports people of British Columbia who champion the preservation and conservation of all forms of built and cultural heritage. We achieve this by developing awareness, appreciation and respect for BC’s tangible and intangible traditions.

About Heritage BC

Established in 1981, Heritage BC is a member-based, non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and advocating for British Columbia’s diverse heritage sector. Our mission is to empower individuals and communities across the province who champion the preservation and conservation of all forms of cultural heritage.

At Heritage BC, we believe in fostering a strong sense of connection to the past while building a vibrant future. Through education, training, and skills development, we equip heritage professionals and enthusiasts with the tools they need to effectively engage in heritage planning and conservation efforts.

One of our primary initiatives is the administration of The Heritage Legacy Fund, established in 2003 with an initial gift of $5 million from the Province of British Columbia. This fund, held by the Vancouver Foundation and administered by trusted advisors at Heritage BC, provides crucial support to heritage projects throughout the province. In 2022, an additional provincial investment of $5 million significantly bolstered the Heritage Legacy Fund, ensuring continued growth and development in BC’s heritage sector.

Heritage BC is committed to raising awareness and celebrating British Columbia’s rich heritage through annual events such as Heritage Week and the Annual Heritage Conference. We also facilitate ongoing learning and knowledge sharing through webinars and the production of several resources, guides, and blogs.

As leaders in progressive heritage initiatives, we spearhead projects like our Setting the Bar guide for reconciliation in heritage, which received the prestigious Governor’s 2022 Award from the National Trust for Canada. This initiative exemplifies our dedication to promoting inclusivity and fostering dialogue around heritage preservation.

Through our work, we strive to cultivate awareness, appreciation, and respect for BC’s built and intangible traditions. By empowering individuals and communities to safeguard our shared heritage, Heritage BC plays a vital role in preserving the legacy of British Columbia for generations to come.