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2026 Virtual Advocacy Day

Advocacy is evolving — and so is the role of destination organizations.

Join Destinations International for a global virtual experience designed to equip leaders, partners and stakeholders with the tools and insights to advocate more effectively.

May 13, 2026 | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM EST

Register Now


What is Virtual Advocacy Day

A focused, global virtual experience that expands advocacy beyond government relations—bringing together destination leaders, boards, partners, and community stakeholders. Walk away with practical tools, shared language and clear next steps to strengthen advocacy in your destination.

Why It Matters

The expectations of destination organizations are changing. Advocacy is now essential to:

  • Securing funding and support
  • Aligning stakeholders
  • Communicating impact beyond tourism 

This program helps turn advocacy from a moment into an ongoing, shared effort.
 

Who Should Attend

  • Destination organization leaders & teams
  • Board members
  • Public sector stakeholders
  • Private sector partners
  • Community leaders 

*We encourage attending as a team and inviting key partners.

Advocacy is a shared responsibility. Be part of the conversation.

Register

Registration is free for all. 

May 13, 2026

Virtual Lobby & Welcome Orientation

8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Evolving Expectations of Destination Leadership

8:30 AM - 9:15 AM

Small Business Global All Stars

9:15 AM - 9:30 AM

What Stakeholders Should Understand About Modern DMOs

9:30 AM - 10:15 AM

15-Minute Break

10:15 AM - 10:30 AM

Impact Measurement + AI for Advocacy

10:30 AM - 11:15 AM

15-Minute Break

11:15 AM - 11:30 AM

Public & Private Sector Alignment

11:30 AM - 12:15 PM

Working Lunch: Developing an Advocacy Plan With Your Board

12:15 PM - 1:15 PM

Case Study Spotlight: Destinations as Community Connector + Storytelling + Destinations of Tomorrow

1:15 PM - 2:00 PM

Energy Reset

2:00 PM - 2:15PM

Lightning Perspectives: Three Stakeholder Voices Supporting the DMO in Developing the Destination to Sustain Shared Success

2:15 PM - 3:00 PM

15-Minute Break

3:00 PM - 3:15 PM

Funding Conversation

3:15 PM - 4:00 PM

15-Minute Break

4:00 PM - 4:15 PM

The Shared Responsibility of Destination Success

4:15 PM - 5:00 PM

Event Partners

Mark Your Calendars for the Next Virtual Advocacy Day!

September 16, 2026

Registration link to come.