Tourism Accelerator Frequently Asked Questions

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Accelerator Program Benefits

The Tourism Accelerator will offer participants a program of support valued at over $15,000:

Business services and coaching from the top providers in San Diego in finance, risk management, commercial real estate, operations and marketing.
A $500 voucher for a course through UC San Diego Extension.*
Free advertising in brochure racks at over 450 locations in San Diego from Certified Folder.
A $1,000 credit to use on SDTA’s digital advertising platforms.
Free quarter-page ad in the San Diego Business Journal.**

Selection Criteria

Applicants must be tourism and hospitality businesses based in the San Diego region and owned by women, veterans, people of color, people with disabilities or members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Organizations must have operated for at least one year to qualify.
Business categories may be, but are not limited to, restaurants, retail, activities and attractions, museums, transportation, and meeting and event services. /li>
Excluded businesses: any type of accommodation, airline or cruise line.
Current or former members of the San Diego Tourism Authority (and all affiliated organizations) are not eligible.

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Selection Process

A diverse panel, comprised of program sponsors and the San Diego Tourism Authority board and staff, will review applications and select participants.
Other selection criteria include: viability of the business model, business needs and commitment to community service.
Businesses not selected are eligible for a 50% discount on SDTA Membership for the current Membership term.

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More Information

Applications

Applications for the 2025 cohort open in the Fall.

Contact Info

619-557-2863

Accelerator@sandiego.org

*Maximum value of the voucher is $500.00 towards the enrollment of one (1) class. There is no cash value. If the value of the course selected is below $500.00 there will be no refund on the balance.
**Current advertisers with the San Diego Business Journal are ineligible for the advertising benefit. Advertisements must run on or before December 31, 2024.

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