DESTINATION MEMBERSHIP GUIDE 2025–2026
NORTHERN ONTARIO
SACRAMENTO
RENO-TAHOE
VANCOUVER, BC CANADA Jon Ross Films | Destination Vancouver
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DESTINATIONS INTERNATIONAL
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Letter from the President & CEO.............................................4
Who We Are.....................................................................................6
Community......................................................................................8
Membership Engagement Opportunities.........................10
Advocacy & Research.................................................................12
Professionnal Development.....................................................16
Business Events...........................................................................20
Destinations International In-Person Events....................22
Destination Tools........................................................................24
Social Impact................................................................................26
Destinations International Foundation..............................28
Destinations International Partners....................................32
2025-2026 Membership Dues................................................36
ON THE COVER Credit Photo – from left to right:
Destination Northern Ontario | Canada
Visit Sacramento, CA | USA
Visit Reno Tahoe, NV | USA
2025 – 2026 MEMBERSHIP DESTINATION GUIDE 3
Dear Members,
I am thrilled to extend a warm welcome to you as we embark another active and impactful year at Destinations International. In an era of global change and uncertainty, our industry faces both challenges and opportunities. But the power of destination organizations to drive economic growth, foster community engagement and showcase the importance of travel has never been more vital. At Destinations International, we remain steadfast in our commitment to innovation, collaboration and being an advocate for you to ensure our collective voice is heard, our industry is supported and our members are equipped with the tools and insights needed to navigate an evolving landscape. Whether you are a new or returning member, your engagement is essential as we work together to champion tourism’s role in shaping a more connected and resilient world. This year, we are focused on strengthening global partnerships, amplifying the voices of our members and driving key initiatives that will define the future of our industry. Through dynamic conferences, targeted
workshops, groundbreaking research, professional development and proactive engagement, we are dedicated to providing you with the knowledge and resources you need to adapt, innovate and thrive. I encourage you to take full advantage of the opportunities available through Destinations International, including events and webinars, certifications and peer collaboration. Here’s to a year of collaboration, accomplishment and impact. Thank you for your dedication to this industry and for being part of our vibrant Destinations International community. The work we do today will shape the future of our industry and our destinations, ensuring they remain resilient and essential to the communities we serve.
— DON WELSH President & CEO, Destinations International
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2025 – 2026 MEMBERSHIP DESTINATION GUIDE 5 SAVANNAH, GA USA Visit Savannah
WHO WE ARE PURPOSE STATEMENT Destinations International is the world’s leading association for destination organizations. Our mission is to educate, equip and empower our members so they can advance their destinations and excel professionally. Membership grants access to essential industry resources, educational and professional development opportunities and exclusive benefits.
BRAND PROMISE Destinations International empowers destinations so their communities thrive.
SERVICE STANDARDS • We provide the best and most relevant professional development available to destination professionals in the world.
• We create the industry’s most trusted tools to enhance our members’ impact on their communities.
• We provide inspiration, tools and professional development opportunities to assist our members advocate for themselves and the industry as a whole.
• We are focused on the destination organization and professional based on a deep understanding of the travel and tourism industry.
• We deliver value at every level of our members’ organization.
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CORE PILLARS
COMMUNITY Destinations International fosters a strong, global community of travel and tourism professionals and promotes the exchange of knowledge and best practices. Our almost 1,000 member organizations and business partners from around the world connect to share insights and network, all aimed at helping their individual communities thrive. ADVOCACY & RESEARCH Destinations International is the collective voice of destination organizations, empowering destinations on issues big and small. We strive to be champions for our members and recognize the importance of keeping our members abreast of the challenges and opportunities presenting themselves in the marketplace. We educate, equip and empower our members to advocate on behalf of their destination organizations and communities. We use our collective voice to elevate and advance the mission, goals and efforts of destination organizations. We are constantly expanding industry knowledge, introducing new ideas and developing forward-focused research and relevant data. DESTINATION TOOLS We offer a suite of products built on best practices, insights and research. We work to raise the effectiveness of destination organizations, increase relevancy among the destination’s community, raise the level of professionalism through certification and accreditation, and provide actionable best practices and strategies for the sustainable success of destinations. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT We are the definitive resource for professional development within the destination marketing and management industry. We offer ongoing educational opportunities both in person and online and are committed to providing professional development and lifelong learning for our members.
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COMMUNITY Destinations International fosters a strong, global community of travel and tourism professionals and promotes the exchange of knowledge and best practices. Our nearly 1,000 member organizations and business partners from around the world connect to share insights and network, all aimed at helping their individual communities thrive.
DESTINATION MEMBERS
755 Total Destination Organization Members
32 Countries & Territories Represented
91 New & Re-Engaged Destination Organization Members
8,000+ Total Destination Organization Engaged Professionals
ADDITIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
DESTINATIONS INTERNATIONAL and organizations, ensuring their teaching remains relevant while fostering impactful experiential learning opportunities that prepare students for future careers. EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS / INDIVIDUAL PROFESSORS Through Destinations International, educators access valuable resources, networking and real-world insights. Membership helps them stay current with industry trends, best practices and collaborations with professionals
SPORTING COMMISSIONS / SPORTING ORGANIZATIONS Sporting commissions and sports councils benefit from membership by accessing industry research, professional development and a network of destination leaders. This support strengthens sports tourism, maximizes event impact and positions sporting events as key economic drivers, fostering deeper community engagement and sustainable long- term growth in the industry.
INDIGENOUS TRIBAL COUNCILS AND BANDS Destinations International connects Indigenous tribal councils and bands with networking opportunities, allowing them to collaborate with other tourism professionals and share knowledge. Access to resources and training tailored to the needs of members further assists tribes in developing sustainable tourism businesses while respecting cultural heritage and environmental concerns.
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COMMUNITY RESOURCES Member benefits extend to ALL employees of the destination organization.
ONLINE COMMUNITY Connect with your peers by job discipline, interest, thought leadership and educational pursuits.
INDUSTRY UPDATES Access to member newsletters, executive updates, blog posts and critical thought leadership.
INDUSTRY DIRECTORY Search for your peers by region, destination or job vertical.
COMMITTEE ENGAGEMENT Collaborate with peers and association staff to develop resources vital for the success of destination organizations.
SPEAKER DIRECTORY Source speakers and industry thought leaders for your virtual and in-person events.
JOB DESCRIPTION LIBRARY Browse a full collection of destination organization job descriptions.
RFP PORTAL Post relevant RFPs (requests for proposals) and connect with our large community of business partners. SUBMIT YOUR THOUGHT LEADERSHIP Does your organization have an innovative initiative, story or case study you’d like to share? Submit your thought leadership to be featured on Destinations International’s website!
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MEMBERSHIP BREAKDOWN BY BUDGET SIZE*
< $150,000 (3.4%) $150,001 to $250,000 (2.3%) $250,001 to $500,000 (8.6%)
$500,001 to $1,000,000 (20.2%) $1,000,001 to $2,000,000 (23.2%) $2,000,001 to $3,000,000 (9.4%) $3,000,001 to $5,000,000 (11%) $5,000,001 to $10,000,000 (9%) $10,000,001 to $15,000,000 (3.6%) $15,000,001 to $20,000,000 (2.4%) $20,000,001 to $30,000,000 (3.2%) $30,000,001 to $50,000,000 (2.6%) $50,000,001 to $100,000,000 (0.8%) $100,000,001 to $150,000,000 (0.3%)
*in USD
DESTINATIONS INTERNATIONAL LONGMONT, CO USA Visit Longmont 10
MEMBERSHIP ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
MEMBERSHIP REFERRAL PROGRAM – Third party validation is critical to any organization’s success. Members that refer Destinations International to a non-member organization are eligible for great perks and benefits.. EVENT AMBASSADOR PROGRAM – The first-time attendee experience can be nerve racking. This program matches first-time attendees with an experienced event veteran who can make introductions to other members and partners, offer insight on valuable educational opportunities, answer questions and (most of all!) offer a familiar face in the crowd.. MENTORSHIP PROGRAM – A unique online networking and career development tool that helps you find, connect and share experiences with members from around the world. DISCIPLINE-ORIENTED CHECKLISTS – The discipline-oriented checklists ensure that professionals in specific job disciplines can fully utilize the resources within their field.
SPECIAL PROGRAMS
CANADIAN DESTINATION LEADERSHIP COUNCIL – In partnership with Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC), the council coordinates on key industry issues including advocacy, resourcing, policy, and marketing. EUROPEAN MEMBERSHIP – Connects destination organizations across Europe with a global network of industry peers. Members gain access to innovative resources, professional development and collaboration opportunities tailored to the unique needs of European destinations.
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Destinations International (DI) is the collective voice of destination organizations, empowering destinations on issues big and small. We strive to be champions for our members and recognize the importance of keeping them abreast of challenges and opportunities presenting themselves in the marketplace. We educate, equip and empower our members to advocate on behalf of their organizations and communities. We use our collective voice to elevate and advance the mission, goals and efforts of destination organizations. We are constantly expanding industry knowledge, introducing new ideas and developing forward-focused research and relevant data. Here you will find a snapshot of our top advocacy and research resources. These are just a few of the many available resources. To learn more about our advocacy research and tools, visit https://destinationsinternational.org/advocacy . ADVOCACY & RESEARCH
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DI is continually committed to providing new resources to our members in the area of advocacy and research. Continue to check back to the advocacy landing page for new resources coming in 2025 and 2026. ( https://destinationsinternational.org/advocacy )
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These content themes highlight the key areas destination organizations must prioritize to effectively address industry trends, navigate destination-specific challenges and drive success. Members can use these themes as a guide to identify resources within our offerings that will best support their efforts in the identified critical areas, ensuring their destination’s success. They also shape our events, research, partnerships and product development to provide targeted support. These topics apply to destination organizations of all sizes and locations, offering a strategic framework while allowing flexibility to adapt to current events as they arise. 2025 CONTENT THEMES
COMMUNITY ALIGNMENT & ENGAGEMENT Destination organizations act as brand stewards, working to build the reputation of their destination as a great place to live, work, visit and invest, while delivering the benefits of travel promotion so the community thrives. Learn More DESTINATION DEVELOPMENT Destination organizations plan, create and manage tourism activity in a way that enhances visitor experiences, contributes to the local economy and ensures long-term sustainability. Learn More SUCCESS MEASUREMENTS Destination organizations share clear and impactful data to demonstrate their contributions to the community. Identifying and applying meaningful metrics enables them to refine strategies and maximize their contributions. Learn More DESTINATION STEWARDSHIP Destination organizations elevate resident quality of place by managing a sustainable visitor industry, promoting equitable economic opportunities and helping preserve the community’s history, cultures and environment. Learn More
TECHNOLOGY & DIGITAL MARKETING Destination organizations harness the next generation of technological advancements so they can most effectively contribute to the success of their communities. Learn More
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TOP ADVOCACY & RESEARCH RESOURCES
2024 TOURISM LEXICON(S)* The Tourism Lexicon is a curated vocabulary resource destination organizations should use to effectively articulate their work and the value of destination promotion. Destinations International (DI) updates the Tourism Lexicon annually, reflecting how politicians discussed common or public goods in the preceding year. This analysis informs the ranking and order of terms, revealing emerging themes and values crucial for destination organizations to understand and leverage.
観光地域づくり法人（ DMO ）のやるべきこと
人々が訪れたい場所を作り上げ ることができたら、住みたくなる 場所づくりができているはず 1. 訪れてよし
人々が住みたい場所を作り上げ ることができたら、働きたくなる 場所づくりができているはず 2. 住んでよし
このサイクルをま わし続け、そのス ピードをきちんと コントロールする 1 「訪れてよし」から 始まる 3
2 4 地域社会の 活性化サイクル 「訪れてよし」から 「住んでよし」、 「働いてよし」、 「投資してよし」へ それこそが 観光地域づ くり法人 （ DMO ）のや るべきこと
企業や住民が投資したい場所を作り 上げることができたら、人々が訪れた くなる場所づくりができているはず 4. 投資してよし
人々が働きたい場所を作り上げるこ とができたら、企業や住民が投資した くなる場所づくりができているはず 3. 働いてよし
マ ネ と ョ
Translated on behalf of JTTA
UPDATED TRANSLATIONS OF THE COMMUNITY VITALITY WHEEL*
LAUNCH OF DESTINATION EFFECT* This Awareness Campaign is not just about raising the profile of destination organizations; it’s about championing the spirit of discovery, unity, and growth they bring to every corner of the world. It is a movement to ensure that every destination organization gains its essential place at the center of a community’s efforts to thrive.
Available in English and recently translated in Spanish, French Canadian and Japanese. The Community Vitality Wheel infographic builds upon Maura Gast’s foundation providing a digestible graphic depicting the ‘circle of life’ and how the work of destination organizations is directly connected to how slow or how fast the wheel turns.
*Indicates initiative powered by the Destinations International Foundation.
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DESTINATION PROMOTION: A CATALYST FOR COMMUNITY VITALITY* New research that demonstrates how investment in destination promotion drives economic growth, improves quality of life and strengthens a community’s identity. A strong destination brand not only benefits tourism but also attracts talent, supports public services and fuels overall economic development.
UPDATED RESIDENT SENTIMENT BRIEFS * In partnership with Longwoods International, this research examines public perceptions of tourism, including its economic benefits, environmental impact, and effects on quality of life. Understanding both positive and negative perspectives helps destination organizations engage with local communities and build stronger support for tourism initiatives.
INDUSTRY BRIEF
A CATALYST FOR COMMUNITY VITALITY: Defining the 21 st Century Destination Organization
Defining the 21 st Century Destination Organization | 1
CATALYST FOR COMMUNITY VITALITY INDUSTRY BRIEF* This industry brief defines a 21st-century destination organization. A common definition allows for standardization across different regions, cultures or sectors. This is essential in a global industry such as travel and tourism, where a standardized definition helps to coordinate efforts and policies across borders, languages and time zones.
DESTINATION NEXT FUTURES STUDY* The 2023 bi-annual DI DNEXT Futures Study is the largest and most extensive survey of destination organizations around the world that unveils the top 50 strategies and 50 industry trends your organization needs to know.
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INAUGURAL GLOBAL LEADERS FORUM DUBLIN, IRELAND
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We are the definitive resource for professional development within the destination marketing and management industry. Through in-person and online offerings, we provide ongoing educational opportunities designed to support professionals at every stage of their career. Our commitment to lifelong learning ensures our members have the tools to grow, lead and succeed. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT – WAYS TO ENGAGE
WEBINARS Hosted by Destinations International staff and partner organizations, our webinars are complimentary to members and can be watched live or on-demand on the Destinations International Online Learning Center .
ONLINE COMMUNITY A platform provided by Destinations International where members can connect virtually and join group discussions. Members can network with peers by job discipline, interest, thought leadership and educational pursuits, as well as access various resources.
VIRTUAL ROUNDTABLES Our engaging roundtable discussions with member peers are complimentary to members and can be watched live or on-demand on the Destinations International Online Learning Center.
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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: CERTIFICATION, ACCREDITATION & CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS
PROFESSIONAL IN DESTINATION MANAGEMENT PROGRAM (PDM) – The PDM Certificate Program is an online certification designed for entry-level professionals and those new to the industry, providing a comprehensive foundation in destination marketing and management. Through cutting-edge education and essential skills training, participants gain the knowledge needed to successfully start or advance their careers in travel and tourism.
CERTIFIED DESTINATION MANAGEMENT EXECUTIVE (CDME) – The highest- level professional credential specifically focused on destination management leaders. The program prepares senior executives to thrive in a constantly changing environment and focuses on vision, leadership, productivity and implementing business strategies.
FOUNDATIONAL PRINCIPLES OF IMPACTFUL LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATE (FPI) (coming soon) – For all professional levels and subject matter experts in the travel, tourism and hospitality industry. This program is designed to help members understand and apply fundamental concepts aligned with social impact in a professional setting.
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INTELLECTUAL CAPITAL CERTIFICATE PROGRAM (ICC) – The ICC Program equips destination sales and services professionals at all career stages with the skills to leverage their community’s infrastructure, economic resources and cultural assets. By positioning their destination as a knowledge hub, participants drive collaboration, enhance business event success and contribute to local economic growth.
BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE CERTIFICATE PROGRAM (BI) – This online self-paced certificate program in Business Intelligence is designed to provide destination sales, services and marketing professionals with a comprehensive understanding of their individual role and the significant impact.
DESTINATION MARKETING ACCREDITATION PROGRAM (DMAP) – The DMAP Program has been refreshed and updated for 2025, reflecting its long- standing importance and relevance in the industry while incorporating updates designed to better align destination organizations with evolving industry needs. The revised standards align with current industry trends and priorities, emphasizing core concepts such as community-shared value, social inclusion, and welcoming environments. The updated standards are more strategic vs tactical. Additionally, the standards have been thoughtfully reorganized for a more cohesive and user- friendly structure.
30 UNDER 30 PROGRAM – We are committed to investing in and developing future industry leaders that represent a diverse set of backgrounds and perspectives. Each year, 30 individuals under the age of 30 are selected to gain valuable industry networking opportunities and exposure to unparalleled thought leadership. Apply yourself or nominate an emerging leader in your organization for recognition on stage at Annual Convention. *Powered by the Destinations International Foundation.
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Business events are crucial to destinations and local economies, generating over a trillion dollars in direct spending worldwide. These events drive significant revenue and stimulate growth across various sectors. By attracting global visitors, they boost local employment and enhance the destination’s profile, fostering long-term economic benefits and development opportunities for local communities and the events they host. Learn more at https://destinationsinternational.org/meetings . BUSINESS EVENTS
BUSINESS EVENTS – WAYS TO ENGAGE
ONLINE COMMUNITY A platform provided by Destinations
CONVENTION SALES AND SERVICES (CSS) COMMITTEE
International where convention sales and services professionals can connect virtually, join focused group discussions and share best practices. Network with peers, explore industry challenges, and access targeted resources to support your work and growth.
There is the opportunity to join the Convention Sales and Services (CSS) committee and follow the group on its online community. We also have specific topic discussion groups such as a risk mitigation group where we offer resources and tools to help convention bureaux navigate this often-challenging issue.
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BUSINESS EVENTS ESSENTIAL RESOURCES
BUSINESS EVENTS OPPORTUNITIES
GLOBAL BUSINESS EVENTS FOCUS GROUP – Online and in-person discussions to exchange best practices and advance the role of convention bureaux globally. CONVENTION SALES AND SERVICES SUMMIT – Dedicated tracks for sales, services and executive leadership. This one- and-a-half-day event is a perfect opportunity to grow your network, learn and share with your peers. In 2025, we will add a convention centre track in collaboration with ASM Global.
BUSINESS EVENTS RESOURCES Access resources on CVB support, site visits, attendance-driving, future roles, risk mitigation, crisis planning and more to boost meeting success.
2025
TAILORED PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES
DESTINATION BOOKING AGREEMENT (DBA) A client agreement document
Strengthen your destination strategy with the Business Intelligence (BI) Certificate Program, focused on data-driven decision-making and the Intellectual Capital Certificate (ICC) Program, designed to help you identify and leverage local thought leaders to attract impactful meetings and events. ADVOCACY FOR THE POWER OF THE CONVENTION BUREAU – We are developing presentations that will help you engage with your members, stakeholders and broader community on the role of the convention bureau. We also have resources within research and advocacy that will strengthen and amplify your voice in the local community.
template that is utilized by a CVB/ destination organization when they secure a future meeting or convention.
CONVENTION SALES & SERVICES CHECKLIST
A tool used to educate and onboard new staff members that hold the role of Director of Sales and Services, Director of Business Development, Sales Manager, Services Manager, Sales Coordinator, Services Coordinator or Events Marketing roles.
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IN-PERSON EVENTS
We are the definitive resource for professional development within the destination marketing and management industry. We offer ongoing educational opportunities both in person and online and are committed to providing professional development and lifelong learning for our members. Here are five key reasons destination organization members find our events valuable for their professional growth. Grow Your Skills: Learn from experts and hands-on sessions you can apply right away. 1 Share & Discover Ideas: Hear new perspectives and share what’s working in your destination. 2 Find Your People: Connect with peers who share your role, region, challenges and goals. 3 Meaningful Networking: Build new connections and strengthen the ones that matter. 4 Get Out & Inspired: Explore a new place and return with fresh energy and inspiration. 5 MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS SUMMIT The go-to event for destination marketing, communications and PR professionals focused on creativity, strategy and community impact. Collaborate with peers to share insights, tackle challenges and shape the future of destination storytelling. FEB CERTIFIED DESTINATION MANAGEMENT EXECUTIVE (CDME) CREDENTIAL* CDME courses are offered in conjunction with many of our events, providing a valuable opportunity to start or continue your path toward the industry’s highest professional designation. Designed for senior leaders, CDME equips you with the strategic skills and knowledge to lead effectively in a rapidly evolving environment.
ANNUAL CONVENTION, VISTOR SERVICES SUMMIT AND CDME COURSES Join global leaders at the industry’s premier event focused on destination stewardship, workforce development and resilience. Start the week with the Visitor Services Summit, highlighting innovative strategies to reimagine visitor centers for greater community impact. CONVENTION SALES & SERVICES SUMMIT AND CDME COURSES* A collaborative gathering for professionals across sales, services and marketing to explore trends, strategy and peer learning. Designed for all career stages, it offers tools to elevate impact and drive meeting success. CEO SUMMIT Connect with industry executives for candid conversations on leadership challenges and emerging opportunities. Gain fresh perspectives and strategies to lead your organization with confidence and vision. GLOBAL LEADERS FORUM (INVITATION ONLY) A gathering for international destination leaders to explore shared opportunities and challenges across global markets. Strengthen partnerships and exchange ideas to drive innovation in destination management worldwide. ADVOCACY SUMMIT AND CDME COURSES* Explore how destination organizations influence policy, support tourism and drive community well-being. Learn effective advocacy strategies to demonstrate your organization’s impact and secure stakeholder support. SOCIAL IMPACT SUMMIT AND BUSINESS OPERATIONS SUMMIT Held concurrently, these summits offer tailored tracks for destination professionals. Explore community-centered tourism strategies or dive into finance, HR and operations to support organizational growth and resilience.
TBD
MAR
APR
JUL
OCT
DEC
WINTER CDME COURSES* - CANADA
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DI offers a suite of products built on best practices, insights and research. We work to raise the effectiveness of destination organizations; increase relevancy among the destination’s community; raise the level of professionalism through accreditation; and provide actionable best practices and strategies for the sustainable success of destinations. DESTINATION TOOLS
OUR TOOLS INCLUDE
DESTINATIONNEXT FUTURES STUDY* – The assessment tool provides destination organizations with practical actions and strategies for sustainable success in a dramatically changing world. The tool helps destination organizations understand their place within the local community, and our futures study research provides practical actions and strategies for sustainable success in a dramatically changing world. SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT TOOL* – Designed for destination organizations to measure progress toward inclusion goals. Assess workplace dynamics, operations, and policies, vendor selection, community engagement, accessibility, board governance, and destination stewardship efforts. EVENT IMPACT CALCULATOR (EIC)* – An industry standard that measures the economic value of an event and calculates its return on investment to local taxes. Armed with this information, destination organizations can make the case to policymakers and stakeholders for the ongoing development and growth of the events and meetings sectors.
*Indicates initiative powered by the Destinations International Foundation.
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THE MEETINGS INFORMATION NETWORK (MINT+) – This database helps destinations prospect intelligently by using both historical data and information on future bookings. A joint venture between Destinations International and Simpleview, MINT+ is a shared repository of information on organizations and their meetings and events and is the destination organization industry’s exclusive data cooperative. Want to know how many rooms an event really uses? Gain a better understanding of rooms beingbooked outside the block with the overnight room demand analyzer, complimentary tool through the MINT+ database.
DESTINATION ORGANIZATION PERFORMANCE REPORTING – On a dynamic platform allowing access 24/7, participants can view and analyze structures, practices, trends and developments in key areas of interest for the industry including organizational structure and funding.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS REPORTING PLATFORM – On a dynamic platform allowing access 24/7, participants are provided a comprehensive review of destination organization salary and benefits structures. Subscribers to the report are able to compare practices with peer destinations across the country.
Additionally, we have several partners that have revenue share agreements that make contributions back to the association or the Destinations International Foundation. The following offerings will continue to grow as Destinations International looks to identify value driven products for our members. FEATURED PARTNER PRODUCTS & TOOLS
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Tourism has the power to create lasting change for visitors and the communities that welcome them. It fosters meaningful connections, shared experiences and economic opportunities that shape destinations for generations to come. At Destinations International, we are dedicated to fostering spaces and places within the travel industry that cultivate a true sense of community, welcoming and belonging for individuals of all backgrounds and abilities. SOCIAL IMPACT
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SOCIAL IMPACT RESOURCES
SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT TOOL* – Measure internal and external impact-based initiatives against industry benchmarks. Use insights to guide strategic planning and year-over-year progress.
SOCIAL IMPACT LEXICON* – Use words that matter to convey the value of welcoming experiences to visitors and stakeholders.
TAMPA CASE STUDY & TOOLKIT – Adopt best practices to host impactful events that uplift your community.
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT BRIEF – Engage alongside Destinations International in this 10-year vision to build an innovative, resilient and vibrant industry.
ACCESSIBILITY PLAYBOOK – Use this comprehensive resource to develop and execute accessibility strategies.
ACCESSIBILITY PLAYBOOK DESTINATION MODULE
PRODUCED IN CONJUNCTION WITH
VIEW ALL OF OUR SOCIAL IMPACT RESOURCES
NEW RESOURCES COMING IN 2025
Community Impact Stories
Tourism for All
2025 – 2026 MEMBERSHIP DESTINATION GUIDE 27 *Indicates initiative powered by the Destinations International Foundation.
SPOKANE, WA
ABOUT THE FOUNDATION The Destinations International Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering destinations globally through innovation and resource incubation. It drives the future of our industry by creating new ideas, tools and resources that elevate and transform destination marketing efforts. As the industry’s think tank and research and development hub, the foundation champions forward- thinking programs, next generation professional development and global partnerships. By fostering innovation, the Foundation ensures destinations remain leaders in global trends and opportunities. Each dollar raised supports impactful initiatives and long-term growth, advancing the professionalism and influence of our industry. With a focus on innovation and transformation, the foundation secures a brighter future for destinations worldwide. DESTINATIONS INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION
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ASSOCIATION VS FOUNDATION
The Destinations International Association and the Destinations International Foundation are two distinct organizations that work in tandem to advance the destination industry.
The association serves as the forward-facing resource for the day-to-day needs of destination organizations and business members, leveraging its legacy as the collective voice of the industry. It focuses on addressing the immediate challenges and opportunities faced by its members while representing the collective history of our field. The foundation supports the association’s strategic goals by concentrating on future-forward initiatives, research and development. By prioritizing innovation and incubation, the foundation aligns its efforts to empower destination organizations through forward-looking programs and resources. The Destinations International team provides operational management for the foundation, ensuring that its fundraising efforts and programs are seamlessly integrated with the association’s mission. Together, they drive meaningful changes, addressing both immediate needs and long-term priorities to secure the growth and sustainability of the destination marketing industry.
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FOUNDATION SPECIAL PROJECTS
ADVOCACY & RESEARCH – The Destination International Foundation is the largest funder of our research to develop a better understanding of our industry and the environment we operate in; we are committed to exploration.
SOCIAL IMPACT – The foundation remains committed to advancing our social impact efforts by supporting the development of this department and the creation of essential research, tools and professional development resources. Key initiatives include the Destination Stewardship program and the Workforce Development Narrative. GLOBAL PROGRAMS – The foundation helps support our global priorities and all destination members. In 2025, priority projects include the Global Accessibility Learning Certificate, Canadian Inbound Tourism Report, 2025 DestinationNEXT Future Study and expanded translation services. These efforts enhance inclusivity, industry insights and global connectivity, strengthening tourism’s economic and cultural impact.
SMALL DESTINATION SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM – Through the foundation, destination members with an operating budget of $3M or less are eligible for event scholarships to the DI Annual Convention, Summits and CDME courses.
HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES (HBCU) SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM – The HBCU Scholarship Program supports underrepresented students pursuing degrees in hospitality or tourism. In addition to financial aid, scholars gain access to networking, mentorship and professional development opportunities, including recognition at Destinations International’s Annual Convention. 30 UNDER 30 PROGRAM – Each year, we recognize 30 rising stars under the age of 30, offering them access to industry networking, professional development, and thought leadership. Nominate an emerging leader—or apply yourself—for recognition at Annual Convention.
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PARTNERS
A very important part of our community includes our strategic partners. With over 150 partner organizations , it is imperative to know who can provide the resources, thought leadership, products and services that support destination organization efforts. Our partners represent the best in the business.
PINNACLE PARTNERS
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PREMIER PARTNERS
PRINCIPLE PARTNERS
STR STR STR
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CORPORATE PLUS PARTNERS
A RateGain Company
CORPORATE PARTNERS
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INDUSTRY PARTNERS
MEDIA PARTNERS
essential for the event evolution
VIEW OUR ASSOCIATE & SMALL BUSINESS PARTNERS
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2025-2026 MEMBERSHIP DUES
JULIE DENNETT VP of Membership Engagement jdennett@destinationsinternational.org AMELIA LINCOLN Membership Engagement Manager alincoln@destinationsinternational.org GENERAL QUESTIONS membership@destinationsinternational.org For More Information: PEYTON GLOVER Senior Membership Engagement Coordinator pglover@destinationsinternational.org
ORGANIZATION BUDGET
DUES
< US$150,000
US$686 US$1,019 US$1,475 US$1,698 US$3,385 US$5,073 US$7,439 US$10,145
US$150,001 to US$250,000 US$250,001 to US$500,000 US$500,001 to US$1,000,000 US$1,000,001 to US$2,000,000 US$2,000,001 to US$3,000,000 US$3,000,001 to US$5,000,000 US$5,000,001 to US$10,000,000 US$10,000,001 to US$15,000,000
US$12,957 US$15,000,001 to US$20,000,000 US$16,334 US$20,000,001 to US$30,000,000 US$21,967 US$30,000,001 to US$50,000,000 US$28,154 US$50,000,001 to US$100,000,000 US$36,612 US$100,000,001+ US$45,048
36 DESTINATIONS INTERNATIONAL
SAINT JOHN, NB CANADA Discover Saint John
WHY YOU SHOULD BECOME A DESTINATIONS INTERNATIONAL MEMBER “ Destinations International has been instrumental in helping both me and my organization grow through access to cutting-edge research, peer collaboration, and a powerful global network of thought leaders. Our membership ensures that we stay ahead of trends and continue to elevate the Florida Keys’ brand in meaningful and measurable ways .”
KARA FRANKER, JD, CDME President & CEO The Florida Keys & Key West, USA
“ With Destinations International championing tourism globally, our industry has a stronger, unified voice. Their CDME and 30 Under 30 programs helped shape my career, while their tools, events and networking continue to deliver powerful value for organizations and the communities they serve .”
CODY CHOMIAK, CDME Vice President of Marketing Travel Manitoba, Canada
“ I have been a member of Destinations International for nearly 13 years. The opportunities to learn & grow as a professional in this industry, to meet colleagues from around the world, to become friends and share ideas and experiences have been incredibly rewarding for me personally. I’m most proud that Destinations International has pushed us to think differently of ourselves, to be more than marketers, to be organizations that shape places and impact people’s lives for the positive .”
HEATH DILLARD, CDME, CTA President & CEO VisitGreenvilleSC, USA
CHICAGO, IL USA Choose Chicago
COLUMBUS, IN USA Visit Columbus
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