Explore the latest tactics state and local governments are using to divert DMO funding and learn what leading destinations have done to secure, stable, long-term funding foundations.

Tyler Gosnell, Managing Director of International Inbound Travel at the U.S. Travel Association, will provide an update on the evolving global travel landscape and what it means for U.S. destinations competing for international visitors.

Destination organizations have long been focused on selling the destination, but many are realizing that leading destination development efforts is not only appropriate, but also a key responsibility, and is crucial to the long-term survival of the organization and industry. Through the development of creative funding tools like TBIDs and other funding streams, destination organizations have found ways to generate, collect and spend attractive amounts of funding for marketing their destinations. However, two converging realities are occurring that require destination organizations to think more broadly about their mission. Join us as we dive into these current realities and their implications, plus share how destination organizations can lead their placemaking efforts from A to Z via best practices.

Over 200 destinations participated in the inaugural launch of Destinations International's Social Impact Assessment Tool, (formerly known as the EDI Assessment Tool). This second release incorporates important updates based on member-driven feedback including global usability, updated accessibility-related assessment questions, and the creation of board diversity and destination stewardship sections. Join us for an overview of enhancements to the tool and the benefits and competitive advantages of using the tool. *Please note that changes have been made to the tiered pricing structure. Entering organizational data has always been free; the basic reporting tier is now free.

In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, organizations are recognizing the need to create genuine human connections and to foster places and spaces that welcome people of all backgrounds and abilities. Join Destinations International's Chief Inclusion Officer, Sophia Hyder Hock, as she explains the reason for this shift, discusses why the 13 topics of DI's social inclusion framework are critical to community vitality and economic growth, and reveals how to incorporate this framework into your strategic initiatives.