DESTINATION MEMBERSHIP GUIDE 2026–2027
PORTLAND
OTTAWA
DALLAS
NEWPORT BEACH, CA USA
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Letter from the President & CEO.............................................4
Who We Are.....................................................................................6
Community......................................................................................8
Membership Engagement Opportunities.........................10
Advocacy & Research.................................................................12
Professionnal Development.....................................................17
Business Events...........................................................................20
Destinations International In-Person Events....................22
Destination Tools........................................................................24
Social Impact................................................................................26
Destinations International Foundation..............................30
Destinations International Partners....................................34
2026-2027 Membership Dues................................................38
ON THE COVER Credit Photo – on the right:
Visit Dallas, TX | USA
DESTINATION MEMBERSHIP GUIDE 2026–2027
PORTLAND
OTTOWA
DALLAS
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This year, we continue to expand opportunities for connection and collaboration across our growing international membership. From workforce development and destination stewardship to business events, advocacy and emerging technologies, our focus remains on delivering timely resources and meaningful experiences that help destination organizations thrive. I encourage you to take full advantage of your membership by engaging with our events, certificate programs, online community, research and peer networks. The knowledge, relationships and ideas shared across this community are among our greatest strengths. Thank you for your commitment to the destination organization profession and for being part of the Destinations International community. Together, we are advancing destinations, strengthening communities and shaping the future of our industry.
Dear Member,
Welcome to Destinations International, the world’s largest and most trusted resource for destination organizations, convention and visitors’ bureaus and tourism boards. As our industry continues to evolve, destination organizations are being called upon to do more than promote places. Today, they serve as community builders, economic drivers, advocates and stewards of destination vitality. At Destinations International, we are committed to ensuring our members have the tools, insights, connections and support needed to lead with confidence in this changing environment. As a member, you become part of a global community of destination professionals dedicated to strengthening their organizations and the communities they serve. Through industry-leading research, professional development, advocacy resources, networking opportunities and global events, DI provides practical solutions to today’s challenges while helping members prepare for the opportunities of tomorrow.
— DON WELSH President & CEO, Destinations International
5 SAVANNAH, GA USA Visit Savannah
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CORE PILLARS
WHO WE ARE
COMMUNITY Destinations International fosters a strong, global community of travel and tourism professionals and promotes the exchange of knowledge and best practices. We enable our nearly 1,000 member organizations and business partners from around the world to connect, share insights and network, all aimed at helping their individual communities thrive. ADVOCACY & RESEARCH Destinations International is the collective voice of destination organizations, supporting destinations on issues big and small. We strive to be champions for our members and recognize the importance of keeping them abreast of marketplace challenges and opportunities. 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 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; elevate 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.
MISSION Empowering destinations so their communities thrive.
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.
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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COMMUNITY Destinations International connects destination professionals from around the world through a vibrant global community built on collaboration, knowledge-sharing and peer support. Members gain access to a powerful network of destination leaders, industry experts and business partners who exchange ideas, share best practices and work together to address the opportunities and challenges shaping our industry. Whether seeking insights, resources, professional connections or practical solutions, members benefit from a community dedicated to helping destinations and the communities they serve thrive.
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.
DESTINATION MEMBERS
INDUSTRY DIRECTORY Search for your peers by region, destination or job vertical.
805 Total Destination Organization Members
39 Countries & Territories Represented
44 New & Re-Engaged Destination Organization Members
11,000+ Total Engaged Destination Professionals
COMMITTEE ENGAGEMENT Collaborate with industry peers to share expertise, influence association initiatives and help shape the resources and engagement opportunities that support destination organizations worldwide.
SPEAKER DIRECTORY Source speakers and industry thought leaders for your virtual and in-person events.
ADDITIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
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. CAREER CENTER Post open positions, attract qualified candidates and explore career opportunities across the global destination organization community. 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!
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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MEMBERSHIP BREAKDOWN BY BUDGET SIZE*
REGIONAL ENGAGMENT OPPORTUNITIES
MEMBERSHIP ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
COMMITTEES & TASK FORCES – With more than 30 committees and task forces, DI offers members meaningful opportunities to collaborate with peers, contribute expertise and help shape the future of destination organizations. Participants play an active role in developing industry resources, advancing key initiatives and informing association priorities. ONLINE COMMUNITY – Connect with peers around the world through discussion groups organized by job discipline, areas of interest and industry topics. Share ideas, ask questions, access resources and build meaningful professional relationships year-round. MENTORSHIP PROGRAM – A reimagined mentorship experience that connects destination professionals and industry partners around the world for career development, knowledge-sharing and meaningful peer connections through personalized matching and the ability to build a network of mentors aligned with your goals. PROFESSIONAL GROWTH COLLECTIVE – A dedicated community for emerging and mid-career destination professionals looking to grow their careers, expand their networks and deepen their industry knowledge through peer connections, mentorship opportunities and professional development discussions. EVENT AMBASSADOR PROGRAM – Designed to enhance the first-time attendee experience, this program pairs new event participants with experienced members who can provide introductions, answer questions and help navigate educational and networking opportunities. MEMBERSHIP REFERRAL PROGRAM – Help strengthen the global destination community by introducing non-member organizations to Destinations International. Members who refer new organizations are eligible for exclusive recognition and benefits.
CANADIAN DESTINATION LEADERSHIP COUNCIL – A forum for Canadian destination organization executives to collaborate on key industry issues, including advocacy, funding, policy and destination marketing.
< $150,000 (3%) $150,001 to $250,000 (2%) $250,001 to $500,000 (8.1%) $500,001 to $1,000,000 (20%) $1,000,001 to $2,000,000 (23%) $2,000,001 to $3,000,000 (10%) $3,000,001 to $5,000,000 (11.7%) $5,000,001 to $10,000,000 (8.7%) $10,000,001 to $15,000,000 (3.6%) $15,000,001 to $20,000,000 (2.6%) $20,000,001 to $30,000,000 (3.8%) $30,000,001 to $50,000,000 (2.2%) $50,000,001 to $100,000,000 (1%) $100,000,001 to $150,000,000 (0.3%)
EUROPEAN MEMBERSHIP – Designed for destination organizations across Europe, this membership provides access to a global network of peers, industry-leading resources, professional development and cross-Atlantic collaboration opportunities.
EUROPEAN STEWARDSHIP COUNCIL – Comprised of destination leaders from across Europe, this council provides strategic guidance to help strengthen regional engagement, advance industry knowledge and support the growth of Destinations International throughout Europe.
*in USD
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ADVOCACY & RESEARCH
INDUSTRY BRIEF
A CATALYST FOR COMMUNITY VITALITY: Defining the 21 st Century Destination Organization
2025 – 2027 STRATEGIC ROADMAP
Destinations International is the collective voice of destination organizations, empowering destinations on issues big and small. We educate, equip and empower our members to advocate on behalf of their organizations and communities while providing the research, insights and resources needed to navigate change, demonstrate value and strengthen community impact. Through forward-looking research, advocacy initiatives and industry intelligence, DI helps destination leaders make informed decisions and shape the future of the visitor economy.
Defining the 21 st Century Destination Organization | 1
Destination Promotion: A Catalyst for Community Vitality Industry Brief Establishes a shared definition of the modern destination organization and its role in driving community vitality, economic growth and destination success.
Advocacy & Action Initiative Connects advocacy and community impact, providing destination leaders with resources and strategies to demonstrate tourism’s value and strengthen community support.
TheDestinationEffect.com A free advocacy platform designed to help destination organizations communicate tourism’s economic and community impact through research, storytelling, videos, infographics and ready-to-use resources.
Featured resources and initiatives include:
To explore the full suite of advocacy and research resources, visit Advocacy | Destinations International .
2025 DESTINATIONS INTERNATIONAL FUTURES STUDY
THE TOURISM LEXICON: 2025 United States Edition
DESTINATION REPUTATION: IMPACT ON THE TRAVELING CONSUMER’S CONSIDERATIONS KEY FINDINGS
share
learn
build
join
community
ADVOCACY ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
align / aligned / alignment
people
available
opportunity
family
develop / development
together
commitment
continue
work
future
resource
home
safe / safety
support
Directional Findings and Implications for Destination Organizations
business / businesses
proud
provide
local
help
Leading Through Transformation A Strategic Road Map for the NEXT Generation of Destination Organizations
New for 2025
Virtual Advocacy Days – Dedicated days of learning and engagement that equips destination professionals with advocacy strategies, policy insights and practical tools.
DestinationNEXT Futures Study Identifies the trends, forces and strategies shaping the future of destination organizations.
Destination Reputation Research Provides insights into how societal concerns, public sentiment and destination reputation influence travel and event decision-making.
Tourism Lexicons Research-backed messaging tools that help destination organizations communicate the value of tourism with residents, stakeholders and elected officials.
Destination Professionals Day – An annual global recognition initiative celebrating the contributions of destination professionals and raising awareness of the profession.
World Tourism Lexicon Day – An annual industry-wide activation promoting the power of language and shared messaging to strengthen tourism advocacy.
Indicates an initiative supported by the Destinations International Foundation.
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2026-2027 CONTENTTHEMES Destinations International’s content themes identify the most important issues facing destination organizations today. Updated every two years, these themes guide our events, research, advocacy, professional development and product development, helping members prioritize what matters most and access targeted resources and support. Applicable to destination organizations of all sizes and locations, the themes provide a strategic framework for addressing industry challenges while remaining flexible enough to adapt to emerging issues and opportunities.
INNOVATION & STORYTELLING Leveraging data, creativity and emerging technologies to tell compelling destination stories and communicate impact to key audiences. Learn More
ORGANIZATIONAL EXCELLENCE Advancing leadership, workforce development, governance and operational effectiveness to help destination organizations thrive today and prepare for tomorrow. Learn More
ADVOCACY & INFLUENCE Positioning destination organizations as trusted leaders who influence policy, build stakeholder support and demonstrate tourism’s value to communities. Learn More
Learn more about DI’s content themes and how they shape our events, research, advocacy, professional development and product development at destinationsinternational.org/content-themes .
CHICAGO, IL USA
RESILIENCE & READINESS Helping destinations anticipate disruption, manage crises and build adaptable strategies that keep communities and visitor economies strong. Learn More
PLACEMAKING & COMMUNITY ALIGNMENT Aligning destination development with community priorities to ensure tourism supports quality of place and strengthens local identity. Learn More
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CONVENTIONS SALES & SERVICES SUMMIT DALLAS, TX, USA
Destinations International is the leading source of professional development within the destination marketing and management industry. Through in-person events, online learning, certificate programs, industry credentials and peer-to- peer engagement, we provide practical education and leadership development opportunities for professionals at every career stage. Our commitment to lifelong learning ensures our members have the tools to grow, lead and succeed. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT – WAYS TO ENGAGE
ONLINE LEARNING CENTER Access webinars, virtual roundtables, on-demand courses and industry insights anytime, anywhere through our centralized learning platform.
ONLINE COMMUNITY Connect with peers around the world, exchange ideas, participate in discussions and access valuable resources by job function and area of interest.
VIRTUAL EDUCATION SERIES Flexible, bite-sized learning opportunities focused on leadership, technology, professional skills and emerging industry trends.
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TALENT ACCELERATOR PROGRAMS
BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE CERTIFICATE PROGRAM (BI) – Provides destination sales, services and business events marketing professionals with practical knowledge, performance metrics and data-driven decision-making skills.
30 UNDER 30 PROGRAM – Recognizes and develops emerging destination leaders through professional development, networking opportunities and exposure to industry thought leadership.
FOUNDATIONAL PRINCIPLES OF IMPACTFUL LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATE (FPI) – Designed for professionals at all career stages, this certificate program develops leadership skills and workplace practices that strengthen organizations and communities.
RISING INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS – Developed for emerging professionals at DI partner organizations, this program provides targeted learning, industry exposure and meaningful connections to help build the next generation of destination leaders.
CERTIFIED DESTINATION MANAGEMENT EXECUTIVE (CDME) – The destination organization’s highest individual professional credential, preparing senior leaders to navigate change, drive strategy and lead high-performing organizations.
PATHWAYS TO SUCCESS – Expands access to hospitality and tourism careers by providing students with financial support, mentorship, professional development and meaningful industry connections.
SCHOLARSHIP & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
TOURISM FOR ALL – A self-paced certificate program that provides destination leaders with practical tools and strategies to create welcoming experiences, strengthen community engagement and support long-term destination vitality.
OPPORTUNITIES TO LEARN & LEAD
PROFESSIONAL IN DESTINATION MANAGEMENT PROGRAM (PDM) – Provides foundational knowledge and practical skills for professionals new to destination organizations or those seeking to strengthen their understanding of destination management.
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.
INTELLECTUAL CAPITAL CERTIFICATE PROGRAM (ICC) – Equips destination sales and services professionals to leverage local knowledge assets, thought leadership and community expertise to attract business events.
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BUSINESS EVENTS
BUSINESS EVENTS ESSENTIAL RESOURCES & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
BUSINESS EVENTS RESOURCES Access resources on CVB support, site visits, attendance-driving, future roles, risk mitigation, crisis planning and more to boost meeting success.
Business events are a powerful driver of economic growth, community development and destination visibility. Meetings, conventions and events generate visitor spending, support local businesses and create opportunities for investment, innovation and knowledge exchange. Destinations International provides destination organizations and business events professionals with the resources, education, research and peer connections needed to attract, support and maximize the impact of these events.
DESTINATION BOOKING AGREEMENT (DBA) A client agreement document template that is utilized by a CVB/destination organization when they secure a future meeting or convention.
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.
Learn more at https://destinationsinternational.org/meetings .
BUSINESS EVENTS – WAYS TO ENGAGE
FEATURED BUSINESS EVENTS RESEARCH & INSIGHTS
DESTINATION REPUTATION RESEARCH Explores how societal issues, public perception and destination reputation influence meeting and event site selection decisions.
ONLINE COMMUNITY Connect with convention sales, services and business events professionals from around the world to exchange ideas, discuss challenges and share best practices.
CONVENTION SALES AND SERVICES (CSS) COMMITTEE Collaborate with peers to advance industry best practices and access specialized discussion groups focused on topics such as risk mitigation, sales and services.
GLOBAL BUSINESS EVENTS FOCUS GROUP Participate in virtual and in-person discussions designed to strengthen convention bureaux and advance the business events sector globally.
DESTINATION STEWARDSHIP PLAN FOR IN-PERSON EVENTS Provides destination organizations and event stakeholders with practical strategies for creating events that generate lasting benefits for communities, visitors and destinations.
FOOD RECOVERY & REDISTRIBUTION AT EVENTS Helps destinations reduce event waste and maximize community impact by connecting surplus food from meetings and conventions with local organizations in need.
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CEO SUMMIT An exclusive gathering of destination CEOs and executives focused on strategic leadership, emerging challenges and bold conversations that help shape the future of the industry.
IN-PERSON EVENTS
MAR
ANNUAL CONVENTION + CDME COURSES The destination organization’s premier global gathering, bringing together industry leaders, innovators and changemakers to explore the trends, strategies and ideas shaping the future of destinations and the communities they serve. VISITOR SERVICES SUMMIT Dedicated to the professionals shaping the visitor experience, this summit explores innovative approaches to visitor engagement, information services and the evolving role of visitor centers in supporting both residents and visitors. CONVENTION SALES & SERVICES SUMMIT + CDME COURSES A dynamic gathering for sales, services and business events professionals to explore emerging trends, exchange best practices and discover new ways to drive meeting and convention success. GLOBAL LEADERS FORUM (INVITATION ONLY) A unique international forum where destination leaders from around the world come together to exchange perspectives, strengthen global connections and explore the opportunities and challenges shaping destinations worldwide. ADVOCACY & ACTION: THE DESTINATION IMPACT EVENT + CDME COURSES Where advocacy meets action. This event brings together destination leaders to explore policy, community impact, workforce development and the strategies needed to strengthen destinations and enhance quality of life. BUSINESS OPERATIONS SUMMIT Designed for professionals responsible for finance, human resources and operations, this summit delivers practical insights, peer learning and innovative approaches to organizational excellence.
APR
MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS SUMMIT CLEVELAND, USA
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 industry experts and leave with ideas and strategies you can apply immediately. 1 Share & Discover Ideas: Exchange insights, explore new perspectives and discover what’s working across the industry. 2
JUL
Find Your People: Connect with peers who share your role, challenges and/or goals. 3 Meaningful Networking: Build new relationships and strengthen existing connections. 4 Get Inspired: Explore a new destination and return with fresh energy and inspiration.. 5
SEP
CERTIFIED DESTINATION MANAGEMENT EXECUTIVE (CDME) CREDENTIAL The industry’s highest individual professional credential for destination leaders. Designed for senior executives, CDME develops the strategic leadership, vision and business acumen needed to lead successfully in a rapidly evolving environment. CDME courses are offered throughout the year and in conjunction with several DI events.
OCT
MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS SUMMIT + CDME COURSES 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
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Destinations International’s suite of destination tools helps organizations measure impact, benchmark performance, strengthen advocacy efforts and achieve organizational excellence. Built on industry best practices, research and accreditation standards, these tools provide actionable insights that support informed decision-making and long-term success. DESTINATION TOOLS
EVENT IMPACT CALCULATOR (EIC) – The industry standard for measuring the economic impact of meetings, events and festivals. Generate credible data on visitor spending, jobs, wages and tax revenue to demonstrate value to stakeholders and policymakers.
WEBSITE IMPACT CALCULATOR (WIC) – Measure the economic impact generated by your destination website, helping demonstrate how digital engagement contributes to visitation, visitor spending and community impact.
THE MEETINGS INFORMATION NETWORK (MINT+) – The destination organization’s exclusive business events data cooperative. Access historical and future meeting data to prospect more strategically and gain deeper insights into meeting and event demand.
OUR TOOLS INCLUDE
DESTINATION MARKETING ACCREDITATION PROGRAM (DMAP) – The destination organization’s premier accreditation program, providing a globally recognized framework and industry standards that help organizations demonstrate excellence, accountability and continuous improvement.
Through strategic partnerships, Destinations International connects members with leading industry solutions that support destination research, economic impact analysis, accessibility planning, visitor insights and performance measurement. These value-added offerings complement DI’s destination tools and help organizations address evolving industry needs. FEATURED PARTNER PRODUCTS & TOOLS
DESTINATION ORGANIZATION PERFORMANCE REPORTING – Benchmark your organization’s structure, funding, operations and performance against peers through a dynamic platform designed to support strategic planning and continuous improvement.
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.
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Destination organizations play an important role in strengthening communities, enhancing quality of place and creating welcoming experiences for residents and visitors alike. Destinations International provides practical tools, research, education and peer-to-peer learning opportunities that help destinations build community trust, support workforce development and maximize tourism’s positive impact. SOCIAL IMPACT
BUILDING A COMMON LANGUAGE – A practical guide that helps destination organizations communicate more effectively about social impact, welcoming environments and community benefits using clear, consistent language.
WAYS TO ENGAGE
WELCOMING DESTINATIONS RESOURCE HUB A curated collection of resources exploring the economic and social impacts of cross-border tourism and the importance of creating welcoming, safe and inclusive experiences for visitors. SOCIAL IMPACT ONLINE COMMUNITY Connect with peers, exchange ideas and share best practices related to community engagement, workforce development and welcoming environments. WEBINARS & VIRTUAL ROUNDTABLES Participate in ongoing discussions and learning opportunities focused on emerging issues, community priorities and destination impact.
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT & RETENTION RESOURCES – Research and tools designed to help destination organizations attract, develop and retain the talent needed for long-term success.
COMMUNITY IMPACT STORIES – Explore real-world examples from destination organizations that are creating meaningful community impact through innovative programs, partnerships and tourism initiatives.
FEATURED RESOURCES
TOURISM FOR ALL – A destination-focused program that helps organizations build local capacity, strengthen community engagement and create welcoming experiences through practical training, education and collaboration.
SOCIAL IMPACT MEASUREMENT – Access frameworks, benchmarking resources and industry insights that help destination organizations measure impact, demonstrate value and make more informed strategic decisions.
WELCOMING & SOCIAL IMPACT LEXICONS – Research-based communication tools that help destination organizations articulate the value of welcoming environments, community impact and destination stewardship through language grounded in shared values and community priorities.
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CLEVELAND, OH USA
FEATURED TOOLKITS
INDIGENOUS-LED TOURISM PARTNERSHIP TOOLKIT – Developed in collaboration with Indigenous tourism leaders, this resource provides guidance and best practices to help destinations build meaningful partnerships and support authentic Indigenous tourism experiences.
Indigenous-Led Tourism Partnership Toolkit
With the support of
TOOLKIT
WHY VALUES MATTER: LGBTQ+ TRAVELER VALUES TOOLKIT – Based on Valuegraphics research, this toolkit helps destination organizations better understand the values that influence LGBTQ+ travelers and apply those insights to strengthen engagement and destination relevance.
Why Values Matter A Destination Guide to LGBTQ+ Travelers
Image courtesy of Visit Greater Palm Springs
ACCESSIBILITY PLAYBOOK DESTINATION MODULE
ACCESSIBILITY PLAYBOOK – Developed in partnership with TravelAbility, this resource provides destination organizations with practical strategies and tools to improve accessibility and better welcome travelers of all abilities.
PRODUCED IN CONJUNCTION WITH
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30 UNDER 30 CLASS OF 2025
ABOUT THE FOUNDATION The Destinations International Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the destination industry by investing in big ideas, research and initiatives that strengthen communities and the professionals who serve them. As the industry’s innovation and impact engine, the foundation supports forward-looking programs, professional development and applied research and advocacy that help destination organizations navigate change, lead with purpose and remain resilient in an evolving global landscape. Through strategic investment and partnership, the foundation incubates new tools and products, insights and resources that elevate the work of destination organizations worldwide. Each dollar raised supports meaningful, long-term impact expanding opportunity, strengthening stewardship and ensuring the continued relevance and credibility of our industry. DESTINATIONS INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION
>
ASSOCIATION VS FOUNDATION
The Destinations International Association and the Destinations International Foundation are two distinct organizations that work in close alignment to support the destination industry.
The association serves as the industry’s primary member-focused organization, addressing the day- to-day needs of destination organizations and partners through education, advocacy, research and engagement. It represents the collective voice and shared expertise of the global destination community. The foundation complements this work by focusing on future-oriented priorities, supporting innovation, research, scholarships and initiatives that extend beyond operational needs to address long-term challenges and opportunities facing destinations.
The Destinations International team provides operational management for the foundation, ensuring strong stewardship, alignment and integration across programs and investments.
With a focus on progress, inclusion and impact, the foundation helps secure a strong and sustainable future for destinations and the communities they serve.
Together, the association and foundation advance both immediate impact and long-term progress, strengthening the destination industry today while preparing for what’s ahead.
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TIMELINE OF FOUNDATION PROGRAMS
FOUNDATION CORE PILLARS
2011
2022
INDUSTRY SECTOR ADVOCACY & RESEARCH We create new knowledge and elevate the voice of the industry, equipping members with innovative research and tools that underscore the value of destination organizations worldwide.
Canadian Visitor Based Assessment Report
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT, TALENT ATTRACTION & RETENTION We foster a passion for learning and cultivating tomorrow’s leaders through scholarships, professional certifications and mentorship programs, building the workforce of the future.
Destination Promotion: A Vehicle for Economic Development Report
Carbon Footprint Measurement for Destinations International Annual Convention
Futures Study
Scholarship Program
GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT & SUSTAINABLE DESTINATIONS We lead collaborative solutions to global challenges, driving initiatives that promote sustainability, accessibility and stewardship across all destinations.
Launch of Advocacy & Research Department
North American Resident Sentiment Research Study
Small Destination & Global Destination Event Scholarship Program
SOCIAL IMPACT & WELCOMING ENVIRONMENTS Supporting destinations in creating places where residents and visitors feel welcomed, connected and valued, while strengthening communities through responsible tourism.
The New Tourism Lexicon
Weaponization of Travel Study
Destination Promotion: A Catalyst for Community Vitality Report
Community Shared Value
Launch of DI Social Inclusion (formerly EDI Department)
Hire of Chief Inclusion Officer (formerly Chief Diversity Officer)
Destination Reputation: Responding to Societal Issues
Community Benefit Funding Model
Technology & Innovation Series AI Micro-Course Series
Food Recovery & Redistribution Guides
Community Shared Value Roadmap Workbook
Indigenous Led Tourism Partnership Toolkit
2026
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Strategic partners are an essential part of the Destinations International community. Representing more than 150 organizations worldwide, they provide the expertise, thought leadership, products and services that help destination organizations navigate challenges, seize opportunities and achieve their goals. Together, they strengthen our industry and support the success of destinations around the globe. PARTNERS
PREMIER PARTNERS
PRINCIPLE PARTNERS
PINNACLE PARTNERS
STR STR
CDME WASHINGTON, DC USA
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CORPORATE PLUS PARTNERS
INDUSTRY PARTNERS
CORPORATE PARTNERS
MEDIA PARTNERS
essential for the event evolution
VIEW OUR ASSOCIATE & SMALL BUSINESS PARTNERS
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2026-2027 MEMBERSHIP DUES ORGANIZATION BUDGET DUES < US$150,000 US$700 US$150,001 to US$250,000 US$1,039 US$250,001 to US$500,000 US$1,505 US$500,001 to US$1,000,000 US$1,732 US$1,000,001 to US$2,000,000 US$3,453 US$2,000,001 to US$3,000,000 US$5174 US$3,000,001 to US$5,000,000 US$7,588 US$5,000,001 to US$10,000,000 US$10,348 US$10,000,001 to US$15,000,000 US$13,216 US$15,000,001 to US$20,000,000 US$16,671
SAINT JOHN, NB CANADA Discover Saint John
WHY YOU SHOULD BECOME A DESTINATIONS INTERNATIONAL MEMBER “For me, one of the biggest benefits of Destinations International is access to a network of people who are in similar roles and understand the unique challenges of destination marketing and management and they are always willing to share ideas or offer advice. I’ve learned so much from fellow members and have made connections with industry partners and vendors that have been incredibly valuable to our association. Every conference or conversation leaves me with new ideas and new relationships. It’s a community that truly wants to see each other succeed.”
CARRIE LAMBERT Executive Director Indiana Tourism Association
JULIE DENNETT Senior Vice President, Membership Engagement jdennett@destinationsinternational.org AMELIA LINCOLN Senior Manager, Membership Engagement alincoln@destinationsinternational.org GENERAL QUESTIONS membership@destinationsinternational.org For More Information: PEYTON GLOVER Senior Membership Engagement Coordinator pglover@destinationsinternational.org RILEY OWERS-GRAHAM Membership Concierge rgraham@destinationsinternational.org
“I’ve been part of the Destinations International community since 2014, and few organizations have shaped my career the way DI has. Through every role and every stage of my career growth, DI has been the constant. This is truly a place to learn from the best in our industry, build lasting relationships, and stay connected to where destination marketing is headed next. It’s more than membership; it’s a professional home.”
JAMIE CLAUDIO Executive Vice President, Global Destination Strategy Tiki
US$20,000,001 to US$30,000,000 US$22,406 US$30,000,001 to US$50,000,000 US$28,717 US$50,000,001 to US$100,000,000 US$37,344 US$100,000,001+ US$45,949
“Destinations International continues to positively impact our industry and the people that drive its success. DI’s energy and organizational culture is inspiring and helps shape my team and me professionally. Being a member provides Visit Quad Cities with tangible value and an opportunity to grow, form lasting relationships with industry colleagues, and gives us the necessary tools we need to make our destination stronger. I am not sure where we would be without Destinations International’s thought leadership and guidance. Being a member is simply the right decision for our business and the community we serve.”
DAVE HERRELL President & CEO Visit Quad Cities
38 DESTINATIONS INTERNATIONAL
ALEXANDRIA, VA USA
DUBLIN, IRELAND
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