Tourism is one of America's fastest growing industries. Whether you work directly with the traveling public or your clients are in the tourism profession, you need lasting partnerships to help you meet the challenge of this fast-paced business.

It makes no difference if your business is large or small, whether you work in a small community or a large metropolitan area - time is money. Like most of us, you do not have the time or resources at hand to reach your long-term goals.

What if you belonged to one association that offered valuable partnerships for marketing and professional development - plus opportunities to learn about the latest industry trends.

What if that association also worked on your behalf to affect positive change in important legislative and governmental issues?

There is one Kentucky association that offers all that and more. Through its full-time professional staff and statewide network of volunteers stretching from Paducah to Pikeville, Covington to Williamsburg and all points in between, the Kentucky Tourism Council gives its members the partnerships they need to get their fair share of Kentucky's $7.8 billion travel economy.

Become a member and share the benefits!

Marketing Opportunities
Through its Discounts, Values and Coupons Book, the Council provides its members a unique opportunity to market their product with the official Kentucky Great Getaway Guide. The two are packaged and mailed to everyone who requests travel information from the Kentucky Department of Travel. The coupon book is also distributed at welcome centers and consumer travel shows throughout the Midwest. The Kentucky Tourism Council "Top Ten" program gives members an opportunity to gain publicity and press coverage for their festivals and special events. Other marketing opportunities provided by the Council include a presence at various trade shows and its busy Kentucky State Fair display area.

Education
In today's world, there are never enough opportunities to learn. The Kentucky Tourism Council provides cutting-edge educational sessions at its quarterly meetings, Tourism Development Symposium and the Kentucky Tourism Industry Annual Conference. Seasoned professionals and nationally recognized experts present programs on the latest trends in marketing, communications, technology and development. Through its Tourism Management Professional Program, the Kentucky Tourism Council and Western Kentucky University offer members a rare opportunity to receive professional credentials. By attending educational sessions, members can receive credits toward a Professional Tourism Management Certificate or Tourism Management Professional designation and gain a valuable edge when it comes to career advancement.

Governmental Relations
The Kentucky Tourism Council is the industry's advocate in Frankfort. A full-time staff and team of dedicated volunteers work on behalf of the membership to build sound working relationships and affect positive change. By providing a vital link to various departments of state government, the Council acts as a clearinghouse for important information on funding sources, technical assistance and other resources. The Council's legislative agent tracks important pieces of legislation and works to see that laws are made that work for Kentucky's tourism industry.

Networking
The Kentucky Tourism Council provides a productive environment in which to build business. From networking at meetings and social functions, members develop valuable sales leads, share marketing ideas and build beneficial partnerships.

Communication
Kentucky Tourism Council members receive Travel Matters, a quarterly newsletter full of news and information about upcoming programs and events. When there is breaking news on legislative issues or industry events, members also receive Travel Matters Fast Fax. One of the most valuable membership benefits is the Annual Membership Directory. This easy-to-read booklet gives the name, address, phone number and e-mail address of important member contacts.

© Kentucky Tourism Council, 2002

Site Design: Big Dog Design