The Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO) is excited to share that it is now accepting Expressions of Interest for organizations interested in managing and animating the landmark community cultural facility.
The RDNO is inviting qualified non-profit organizations, cultural organizations, social enterprises, venue operators, or consortiums to submit Expressions of Interest to operate and contribute to programming within the future Greater Vernon Cultural Centre (GVCC), a transformative new cultural destination scheduled to open in 2028.
The new 32,000-square-foot facility, currently under development in downtown Vernon, will bring together the Vernon Public Art Gallery, the Greater Vernon Museum and Archives, flexible presentation and event spaces, and vibrant indoor and outdoor gathering areas. The GVCC is designed to foster creativity, learning, community connection, and cultural participation for residents and visitors throughout the North Okanagan.
"With construction of the Greater Vernon Cultural Centre advancing, we are beginning the important process of identifying an organization or team that can expand on the exceptional programming that the Vernon Public Art Gallery and Greater Vernon Museum and Archives will be providing in the building and bring the rest of this remarkable community space to life," said Bob Fleming, Chair of the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee. "We are looking for experienced and visionary partners who can help create a dynamic, welcoming, and sustainable cultural hub that reflects the diversity, creativity, and aspirations of our region."
The selected operator will be responsible for key functions, including:
- Day-to-day facility operations and visitor services,
- Cultural programming, events, performances, workshops, and community activities in the spaces not operated by the Vernon Public Art Gallery or the Greater Vernon Museum and Archives, which includes the 163, retractable-seat presentation space, as well as the cultural commons area and outdoor plaza,
- Partnership development with cultural organizations, Indigenous communities, artists, educators, and community groups, and
- Coordinated marketing, audience development, fundraising, sponsorships, and revenue generation activities that support long-term sustainability for the facility.
The opportunity is intended for organizations with demonstrated experience operating cultural, arts, and/or community public facilities, as well as the capacity to deliver engaging programming and build strong community partnerships.
The GVCC emerged from the vision established through the Greater Vernon Cultural Plan and years of collaboration among local governments, cultural organizations, community stakeholders, and residents. Once complete, the facility will serve as a regional cultural gathering place, helping strengthen community identity, support local artists and cultural organizations, enhance cultural tourism, and contribute to the vitality of downtown Vernon.
Organizations interested in learning more about this opportunity can access the complete Request for Expression of Interest documents through the Provincial BC Bid portal.
Key Dates
Deadline for Questions: October 15, 2026, at 4:00 p.m.
Expression of Interest Closing Date: October 30, 2026, at 4:00 p.m.
For more information about the Greater Vernon Cultural Centre project, visit www.rdno.ca/gvculturalcentre or email communityservices@rdno.ca.
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For media inquiries:
Stacey Raftus, Communications Officer
communications@rdno.ca