Multi-Year Partnership Introduces the BCLC Backyard and Expands Community Access to Venue Events

Vancouver, BC – On August 15th, 2025, the PNE announced an exciting new partnership with the BC Lottery Corporation (BCLC) as a founding partner of the new Freedom Mobile Arch, set to open in summer 2026.  At the heart of this partnership is the creation of the BCLC Backyard, a new open-air lawn section at the venue designed to connect people across British Columbia through shared moments of entertainment.

The BCLC Backyard builds on BCLC’s focus to support new opportunities for British Columbians to feel more connected to one another, while fueling a shared commitment by both BCLC and the PNE to deliver memorable entertainment experiences and invest in the social fabric of communities.

“The PNE is proud to welcome BCLC’s partnership supporting this important music and cultural venue,” said Shelley Frost, President and CEO of the PNE. “We recognize and share BCLC’s commitment to promoting moments for human connection and are dedicated to partnering on programs that will foster lasting memories at the many music and cultural events that will occur at the Arch.”

A marquee component of the new PNE-BCLC partnership is integration of the BCLC Community Ticketing program, which provides a select number of free BCLC Backyard tickets to non-profit organizations to support access to those that may not otherwise be able to attend arts and culture events in the community.

“For 40 years, BCLC has brought people together through shared moments of entertainment.Now we’re taking the next step in our journey—striving to create moments of connection in everything we do, from the products we create, to this exciting new partnership with the PNE,” said Natasha Questel, Chief Social Purpose Officer and Vice President, Marketing, BCLC. “Together with our friends at the PNE, we’re excited to create a BCLC Backyard experience that’s fun and entertaining for British Columbians, and that fosters connection with each other, our communities and our province.”

“The PNE and BCLC have formed a creative and meaningful purpose-driven partnership.” says Garnet Nelson, Co-Founder and Managing Director at UNITE Partnerships. “This strategic collaboration will significantly elevate BCLC’s profile while providing the community at large with fun and accessible entertainment experiences”.

If your organization is interested in learning more about strategic sponsorship opportunities, please contact us at hello@unitepartnerships.com