2024 Conference Presentations
April 25, 2024
Advanced SEO for DMOs and Small Business
In a digital world where search engine visibility is paramount and the goal post is constantly moving, DMOs and CVBs face the challenge of navigating through complex SEO strategies. This session offers a clear, structured approach to mastering SEO, ensuring optimal use of marketing resources for maximum visibility. Key takeaways include: - Optimal SEO Techniques - Traveler Conversion through SEO - Google's Search Evolution - Common SEO Mistakes & Opportunities
Presented by Brennan Bliss, Propellic
Building an Inclusive Workforce
Learn how The Nonantum Resort employment program has broadened their approach to workforce development by integrating opportunities for people with prior involvement with Maine’s justice system and providing a supportive structure for these employees. This workshop will share insights gained and practical advice for exploring the potential of a similar approach to hiring staff for your own business.
Presented by Colby Marvin Bracy, The Nonantum Resort
Efficiency Maine Hospitality-Focused Grants
The Maine Jobs and Recovery Plan allocated federal funds to assist Maine travel and hospitality businesses in converting heating systems to more energy efficient systems. Efficiency Maine's launch of Round 2 of the grants was in March with $1.8 million in funding available with rolling applications. According to a 2023 Yougov.com survey, less than 25% of travelers believe hotels are doing enough to minimize their environmental impact. Learn how to apply for funding to upgrade your water and heating systems at your lodging or food establishment, and save money on energy costs while elevating your ability to attract travelers looking for sustainable options. (2023 case study: Glenmore by the Sea)
Presented by Rick Meinking, Efficiency Maine
April 25, 2024 | Mainstage
Welcome and MOT Report
Remarks by Heather Johnson, Commissioner, DECD, and an update on the Maine Office of Tourism’s core program activities including research trends and the state’s tourism marketing and PR campaigns. Stay engaged with how the state supports the success of the tourism industry in Maine.
Keynote: Doubling Down on Belonging: Why Multicultural Travel Marketing is Mainstream Marketing
The traveling public is more multicultural, inclusive, and intersectional than ever before. What does this mean for tourism in Maine and how can Maine’s tourism industry establish a sense of belonging and welcome with these diverse visitors? Multicultural travel research, including the newly-released Future of Travel study, will shed light on the growing perceptions and influences guiding multicultural traveler preferences and will provide the audience with concrete and tangible takeaways to future-proof Maine's visitor economy.
Presented by Danny Guerrero, The Culturist Group
Governor's Conference on Tourism Awards
Celebrating this year's Governor's Conference on Tourism Award winners, honoring Innovation & Creativity, Leadership & Growth, Stewardship, WelcomeME and the Governor’s Award for Tourism Excellence.
April 25, 2024 | Breakout Sessions
Wabanaki Cultural Tourism Initiative
Four Directions Development Corporation, in partnership with Tribal Leadership, is working on a phased Wabanaki Cultural Tourism Development Plan that shares a common vision in developing a robust Native Tourism economy in Maine by 2030. Learn about this important cultural initiative and national Indigenous Tourism trends.
Presented by Charlene Virgilio, Four Directions Development Corporation, Ernest Neptune, Passamaquoddy Tribe at Pleasant Point, and Sherry L. Rupert, American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association
"Feast of the Earth" Food-Tourism Initiative
The Maine Office of Tourism’s brand-refresh process identified Maine’s food assets as one of four key marketing pillars for promoting tourism in the state. Learn about this popular travel trend, MOT’s plans for promoting food tourism and agritourism in Maine, and how the industry can get involved.
Presented by Charlene Williams, Marshall Communications, Mindy Fox, Mindy Fox Public Relations, Peter Jon Lindberg, Zoe Croft, Atlantic Sea Farms, Tristan Noyes, Maine Grain Alliance
Sustainable Tourism - Telling Our Story
Storytelling is a powerful and important tool in communicating and building engagement with sustainable travel and stewardship-focused tourism goals. This session will explore how video and film can help tell the story of your destination in a way that supports destination stewardship to attract your ideal visitor.
Presented by Erika Piik, GLP Films
Revolutionizing Maine Tourism: Generative AI's Impacts in Talent Acquisition
Discover the transformative power of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) and how it is expected to impact Maine's Tourism landscape. This insightful session delves into the groundbreaking impact of GAI on the industry and shares innovative strategies to enhance recruitment processes. Join us to explore practical applications of this cutting-edge technology, tailored to meet the unique challenges and opportunities within Maine's vibrant tourism sector.
Presented by Matthew Burzon, The Source and Recruit Company