Record Fundraising Achievement
The Destinations International Foundation has released its 2025 Annual Report, revealing record-breaking fundraising that exceeded $1.2 million. The milestone surpassed the foundation's goal and builds on consecutive annual campaigns that have raised over $1 million in recent years, demonstrating growing donor engagement across the global destination community.
Established in 1993, the foundation has operated for over three decades as a resource for destination organizations, convention and visitors bureaus, and tourism boards worldwide. The organization has evolved into what it describes as a critical global resource, focusing on innovation, research, advocacy and talent development.
Industry Programs and Research Initiatives
The foundation has launched numerous initiatives that have become foundational resources for the destination sector. Early investments helped establish advocacy and research capabilities, including landmark studies such as Destination Promotion: A Vehicle for Economic Development.
Current programs span multiple areas including industry research such as the DestinationNEXT Futures Study and Destination Reputation and Resident Sentiment studies. The foundation also supports workforce development through programs including 30 Under 30, Rising Industry Professionals, and the Pathways to Success Scholarship and Professional Development Program.
Additional initiatives include scholarship programs for CDME candidates and professionals from small destinations, as well as innovative tools like the Event Impact Calculator and the Destination Guide to Food Recovery & Redistribution at Events.
Foundation Leadership Perspective
"The continued success of the Destinations International Foundation reflects the shared commitment of our industry to invest in its future," said Don Welsh, president & CEO of Destinations International. "For more than a decade, the foundation has been a catalyst for innovation, supporting groundbreaking research, advancing advocacy efforts and developing the next generation of leaders who will shape the future of destination organizations."
Chelsea Welter, Managing Director of the Destinations International Foundation, emphasized the organization's long-term impact: "The Destinations International Foundation has created meaningful, lasting impact across our industry for three decades. As the industry's foundation, we are proud to invest in forward-thinking ideas and initiatives that strengthen destination organizations at every level."
Parent Organization Reach
Destinations International, the foundation's parent organization, represents more than 10,000 members and partners from over 750 destinations globally. The association describes itself as the world's largest resource for destination organizations, convention and visitors bureaus, and tourism boards.
Based on reporting by Exhibitor Magazine. Read the original article.