With broad stakeholder input, industry-leading research, a dedicated team of tourism professionals and support from the DMO-specific planning firm, Destination Think, Travel Oregon has developed the Draft 2021-23 Strategic Plan & Budget. The purpose of this plan is to lead and support the rebuilding of Oregon's tourism industry and economic recovery, while balancing priorities in a way that benefits both residents and visitors while laying the foundation for longer-term transformational planning.

Travel Oregon is extending registration for its Why Guides program, an agency-wide effort to recognize and promote tourism industry operators, guides and outfitters as one of the state’s top tourism assets. This community is made up of local experts who help travelers discover unique experiences, follow destination management principles, and provide land stewardship throughout the state, creating memorable and sustainable experiences for visitors.

Oregon-based tour guides, operators and outfitters are invited to join the Why Guides registry through the end of 2021 to help Travel Oregon tell the story of why guides are a valuable way to experience Oregon. To date, the registry has connected Travel Oregon with guides to appear in local news segments, be featured in editorial content on traveloregon.com, and participate in upcoming Why Guides videos. Registry participants are also being featured in targeted media pitches, travel agent trainings and on social media with more marketing and promotional opportunities on the way.

Click here for more information, program goals and to register.

On Monday, Travel Oregon announced $2,408,264.67 in grant funding has been awarded to projects across the state through the Competitive & Recovery Grant Program. In this grant cycle, Travel Oregon received more than 400 applications with a request greater than $18 million.