Tourism Promotion Funding

The importance of supporting the regional economy through proper tourism promotion funding.

Visit Colorado Springs has invested in robust research from respected experts such as Tourism Economics, Destination Marketing Association International and Longwoods International, indicating that the region's tourism budget is underfunded.

These findings helped VCOS leadership develop a road map for sustained success. As a response to these findings, our main goal for the coming year is to maximize resources by achieving sustainable funding from both public and private sources.

The long-term goal is to increase Lodging Tax from 2% to 4% and Car Rental Tax from 1% to 2%. For this initiative to be successful in the coming years, incremental funding from the private sector is critical. Additional marketing dollars allow us to effectively stay top-of-mind with travelers, compete for visitation and remain at the forefront of communications and booking technology.

The first step to success is working with key stakeholders to develop a restructured dues model that is equitable to all Partners and achieves a proportional investment from each of our Partner categories. The long-term benefits of combined public and private funding are many. We must come together as an industry to maximize the vitality of the region's tourism industry.

Tourism promotion continues to be a sound investment for our community. Lower annual taxes for residents, 20,000+ jobs and a larger general fund are a few of the important ways that we all benefit from this thriving economic engine. See more ways tourism pays here.

Below you will find research studies, more details, and a link to frequently asked questions. If you have further questions or would like more information in the meantime, please feel free to contact us directly.

Research Results

Timeline
If your VCOS renewal anniversary date falls on April 1ST, 2017, or after, your new dues investment structure will be reflected on the next invoice you receive. You should receive the invoice approximately 6 weeks prior to the actual renewal date.

Doug Price, IOM

President & CEO
Doug@VisitCOS.com
719-685-7633

With more than 40 years of experience as an executive with Marriott, public speaker, published author, professional development executive for Destination Marketing Association International and President & CEO of Visit Colorado Springs, Doug Price has a unique and broad perspective on travel and tourism marketing, sales, customer service and advocacy.

Kimberlie Griffis

Director of Partnership Development
Kim@VisitCOS.com
719-685-7627

Kim has worked with VCOS on three separate occasions and this time, we're not letting her go. She is immersed in the community, helping businesses connect with the 20.5 million people who visit the region each year. In addition to partnership sales and retention, Kim creates a full schedule of educational and networking events that include the Annual Business Meeting, Tourism Awards Celebration, quarterly mixers, partner orientation sessions and the educational series.

Amy Long

Chief Innovation Officer
Amy@VisitCOS.com
719-685-7630

Amy Long has been with VCOS since June of 2006. She oversees advertising, publications, the website, communications, partnership and events. She has a BS in Commerce from the University of Virginia and an MBA from the University of North Carolina. Amy volunteers as Board Chair for Keep Colorado Springs Beautiful and manages the Facebook page for Bear Creek Dog Park. She has a sweet granddog named Vinnie.