Agenda

Join Amir Eylon, President & C.E.O. of Longwoods International, as he shares the latest highlights from their ongoing American Traveler Sentiment Study, the longest running study of its kind during the pandemic. Attendees will gain insights into what American Travelers are thinking and how they are planning for 2021 and beyond. In addition, Amir will share thoughts as to what travelers will be expecting and seeking out moving forward into and beyond recovery. 

We know it will be critical for destination organizations leaders to embrace the role that equity, diversity and inclusion will play in moving our industry forward, especially at a time when our industry must face one of the most challenging moments in modern history - recovery from the devastating impact of COVID-19 on the travel industry. Melissa Cherry, Chief Operating Officer at Destinations International will present why it is critical, now more than ever, why our industry must solidify their commitment to implement EDI best practices.

See the results of our annual Google Analytics report and hear from Visit Fort Wayne on their annual conversion study. Afterwards have the opportunity to share and ask questions as you network with other colleagues on the topic of research.

Make 2021 a year of recovery! In this session, Brian will give you the top things you need to do to ensure your destination is well-positioned both during and after this unique time. In this webinar, we’ll discuss some of the latest digital marketing developments and trends that you need to know to help you navigate the changing landscapes ahead of us. You'll discover essential strategies to futureproof your marketing efforts for the long haul when it comes to increased consumer privacy standards, changing targeting methods, how to identify consumers who are ready to travel, and what's new on the horizon. This session will help ensure that your budgets are positioned for maximum impact and flexibility in driving not only inspiring consumers but converting visitation during this time of healing. Hear his take on the most essential marketing tactics you need to thrive and not merely survive in 2021.

As students, we hated group projects. As adults, we giggled at t-shirt slogans stating “Does not play well with others.” But with the realities of today’s economy, partnerships can be the most successful way forward. Using Ohio Travel Association’s top statewide 2020 RUBY Award winner for “Spirit of Innovation” as a case study, we will look at successful collaborations and the importance of partner programs. If you thought you couldn’t be crazy with your colleagues, think again.

Hear from a member on their 2020 social media campaign and then have the opportunity to ask questions and share among your peers.

As we gear up for the busy travel season, learn and share with colleagues as we discuss the challenges, changes and plans for 2021.

The legislation creating the Indiana Destination Development Corporation (IDDC) was effective July 1, 2020.  It replaced the Indiana Office of Tourism Development and operates with an expanded mission to attract and retain talent, students, business, and visitors.  An update on the activities of the IDDC will include the strategic plan, key research outcomes, as well as current and future campaigns.

Join your peers for this critical conversation on how the Coronavirus crisis has changed the execution of meetings, events, conferences and trade shows. Look at current reopening and recovery trends with fresh data from Meeting Professionals International and discuss new guidelines for social distancing, sanitization and food delivery. Find out ways you can help meeting professionals feel safe bringing their stakeholders and attendees to your city.

Learner Outcomes:

• Find current trends and stats about the state of the meetings industry in the Covid era.
• Discover what considerations planners are using to determine how they can safely host meetings.

Discuss how you can make planners feel confident booking business with you post-Covid.

Hear from two ITA sales focused members as they share their experience over the last year and then have the opportunity to ask questions and share during this 45 minute roundtable.

Join Jim Epperson and Michael Solari as they provide an update on the current legislative session.