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San Diego

Tourism Foundation

Diversifying and Strengthening Our Tourism Industry

The San Diego Tourism Foundation is the official 501c3 affiliate of SDTA, the destination marketing organization for San Diego. SDTA drives visitor demand to the San Diego region by attracting travelers to the destination for leisure, meetings and conventions.

Our Mission

The San Diego Tourism Foundation aims to elevate San Diego as an inclusive destination that is sustainable and equitable for all.

Our mission is to diversify and strengthen San Diego’s travel and tourism industry through education and training, workforce development, civic engagement, and other charitable services.

SDTA at PCMA

Impact Areas

Small Business Empowerment

The San Diego Tourism Foundation focuses on providing resources and programs that build thriving communities by addressing issues fundamental to economic mobility. These efforts ensure that San Diego remains competitive as a destination while fostering small business development and entrepreneurship in the tourism sector.

Support will include mentorship, training, and access to partner opportunities, helping local entrepreneurs build sustainable businesses.

Workforce Development

By investing in workforce development, the Foundation aims to create job opportunities and career pathways in the tourism sector, particularly for underrepresented groups. This impact area aims to address talent gaps in the labor market and prepare a diverse workforce for future demands.

Programs may include internships, apprenticeships, career events, and skills training to provide a clear path from education to employment.

Balboa Park

Destination Stewardship

The Foundation promotes active civic engagement by fostering partnerships with community stakeholders to ensure that tourism benefits all residents. With a focus on sustainability, the Foundation works to create a more resilient destination that reflects the values and needs of the local population and environment.

Efforts will balance tourism growth with cultural preservation and environmental stewardship, ensuring long-term benefits for the community and visitors alike.

SDTA Tourism Accelerator meeting

Current Initiatives

Tourism Accelerator Program

Our award-winning Tourism Accelerator program helps diverse business owners tap into the local tourism industry and take their businesses to the next level. The annual program is open to women, veterans, people of color, people with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Tourism Accelerator participants can expect a complimentary SDTA membership for one year, access to education, mentorship, alumni, and networking opportunities.

Tourism Day at SDSU

San Diego Tourism Day

San Diego Tourism Day is designed to engage students and emerging professionals with the importance of tourism in the region, showcasing the San Diego Tourism Authority's role in driving the local economy. Through a variety of events, the Foundation partners with employers and education institutions to highlight career opportunities within the tourism sector, providing our future workforce with insights and direct connections to industry professionals.

Make a Difference

The work of the San Diego Tourism Foundation would not be possible without the generous support of our partners, local businesses, community leaders, our Board of Directors, and SDTA members and partners. Each of these entities recognizes the significance of investing time, expertise, and resources to support our community.

Your donation helps to sustain programs like our award-winning Tourism Accelerator and equip San Diego's tourism industry for the future. Together, we are creating a brighter San Diego for all.

Thank you for your support.


Donations can also be mailed to the following address:

San Diego Tourism Foundation
750 B Street, Suite 1500
San Diego, CA 92101

San Diego Tourism Foundation Board of Directors

  • Marilyn Hannes – Strategic Advisor, United Parks & Resorts
  • Dr. Alana Dillette – San Diego State University Payne School of Hospitality & Tourism Management
  • Julie Coker – Former President & CEO, SDTA
  • Rick Meza – CFO, SDTA
  • Theresa Cunningham – Director of DEI & Community Engagement, SDTA

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