Tourism Advocacy

News and Resources on Industry Initiatives, Legislative Action & Advocacy Alerts

A state tourism office serves as a vital catalyst for economic growth, cultural preservation, and community development through targeted marketing efforts, destination development, and other important initiatives. For more than a decade, Washington has been at or near the bottom of all state tourism marketing efforts following the closure of the state tourism office in 2011. Ever since then, the industry has been seeking sustainable funding.

A lack of consistent marketing effort has impacted industry growth around the state. A sustainable funding model will support economic growth and maintain the many programs SWT has built over the past two years, including:

• A new engaging brand and marketing campaign centered around responsible travel
• A Destination Development program focusing on rural areas
• A grant program for industry stakeholders
• A new state tourism website featuring diverse voices
• A Travel Trade program for international visitation
• A successful State Tourism Conference

>> See an overview of all programs here

Become a Tourism Advocate

Our free tourism advocate program is your key to staying connected to the statewide tourism industry. In 2018, SWT counted on stakeholder advocacy to re-build the state tourism program, and your advocacy is needed now to operate and sustain it. Thank you for your support and partnership!

Tourism Advocate Qualification: Any business or organization located in or operating in the State of Washington.

Find your State Legislative District here and sign up using the form below.