Thanks to all who attended last month’s Illinois Governor’s Conference on Tourism. Your participation, as well as our stellar lineup of speakers and presentations, made for a memorable and successful event.

In addition to spreading the good news about Illinois tourism during the State of the State address at the conference, I also had the chance to speak at two other key industry partner meetings in February. Both were great opportunities to share information about IBOT’s marketing goals and activities, innovative grant programs, and the overall economic impact generated by the industry’s efforts. On February 8 I spoke before the Illinois Hotel and Lodging Association (IHLA) in Chicago, and on February 16 I addressed the Illinois state park concessionaires at scenic Starved Rock State Park.

In my speech to IHLA members, I emphasized the “power of one” – how the tourism industry operates most effectively when we all work together. I also recognized IHLA’s contribution to the industry and explained how IBOT acts as the engine that powers, and empowers, partner organizations and programs to complement and enhance their efforts. By working together, we further our goal of maintaining a viable marketing budget to increase Illinois’ market share.

In addition to funding, IBOT helps partner organizations such as IHLA in many ways. During my address, I shared information regarding the myriad ways the Bureau helps to fill hotel rooms throughout the state, including TIC bookings, international marketing efforts such as representation at the international trade shows WTM and ITB, media familiarization trips, partnerships such as our relationship with the city of Chicago (which is envied by other states!), the new international Gray Line partnership, and more. I also discussed domestic marketing efforts and grants for special attractions, including the Burpee Museum in Rockford for Jane, and support for the upcoming blockbuster King Tut exhibit at The Field Museum.

And while filling hotel rooms (or putting heads in beds) in cities like Chicago and Rockford is part of our goal, there are many diverse areas throughout Illinois that attract thousands of visitors, significantly contributing to the state’s marketing budget, such as the beautiful natural landscapes found in Illinois state parks. In addressing the state park concessionaires, I focused on ways they could raise awareness of and increase traffic to their areas by leveraging IBOT’s marketing programs, particularly the new branded fall season, Fall-O-Ween. Alexa Gunther from Edelman joined me to speak about the overall publicity opportunities and promotions that benefit state parks. As a group we joined forces to kick-start thinking on ways the parks can capitalize on Fall-O-Ween to increase seasonal traffic, and brainstormed several creative packages that would appeal to media and consumers alike.

And it’s hard to believe, but our spring/summer campaign is just around the corner. I look forward to sharing the details of the campaign with you as well as information on many new projects that will drive tourism throughout the state. But the message is clear, together we are a mighty force that is succeeding in our goals, and through the “power of one,” I hope to continue increasing Illinois’ profile as a premier destination for travelers from around the globe.