About Us

One Vision

One Mission

One Voice

Background

Travel generates over $9.26 billion in visitor spending each year in IOWA. Over 70,700 people are employed within the travel sector in Iowa. Iowa’s state travel budget ranks #42 out of 50 states.

The Iowa travel industry is currently organized by regional associations which deliver education, networking, and programs. In addition, there are statewide organizations that focus on specific niche market activities. As part of an industry-wide strategic sector plan in 2015, a goal was outlined to improve collaboration, partnerships, and expertise amongst stakeholders. Stakeholders have worked for the last several years to mold this concept into the Iowa Travel Industry Partners Association and Foundation. This new association aligns with the recommendation from the Governor’s Economic Growth Subgroup of Hospitality and Tourism industry professionals to develop a public/private organization to represent the interests of Iowa’s tourism industry as part of a statewide strategic plan for tourism, including investment strategy.

In December 2020, 501c6 and 501c3 filings were submitted to begin the formation of the new organization. Learn more about the work of the 501c3 iTIP Foundation.

Mission

Iowa Travel Industry Partners mission is to be the unified driving force of the travel and tourism industry promoting Iowa and its communities to positively impact the economy and quality of life for all Iowans.

Vision

For Iowa to be a vibrant travel destination with thriving diverse communities which inspire visitors, led by a recognized brand and a united Association of travel professionals leading the way to make Iowa a destination of choice.

Purpose

The goal of the Iowa Travel Industry Partners is to:

Increase traveler spending in Iowa.
Unite segments of the travel industry.
Enhance the travel industry’s political strength and program impact.
Elevate professionalism within the industry.
Position travel as a respected revenue generator in Iowa.
Build private and public funding resources for travel efforts.
Represent Iowa’s diverse level of tourism entities, which is inclusive of size, geography, culture, business segment, etc.
Serve as a leading travel and tourism industry resource for key stakeholders and the public.
Serve as a vehicle for the exchange of information and ideas pertinent to the Iowa travel industry.

Key Benefits

The key benefits of a united statewide travel organization include:

Greater efficiencies of resources, staff, volunteers, programs, and advocacy.
Streamlined communications, marketing, and advocacy under one voice for the entire industry.
Connecting more entities to all programs without having to join multiple organizations.
The intent is to build on successful existing programs and partnerships while looking for additional opportunities

Five Pillars

DEVELOPMENT: The development committee focuses on membership and relationships.

RESOURCES: The resources committee focuses on providing technical tools, such as mentorships and economic impact calculator.

EDUCATION: The education committee focuses on networking opportunities, best practices, and accessible training.

ADVOCACY: The advocacy committee focuses on identifying key issues, empowering members, and engaging in advocacy programming.

MARKETING: The marketing committee focuses on the development of the Association’s brand and promoting the niche markets.

View our Committee Members