TAMPA, Fla.—Visit Tampa Bay has introduced the “Meeting the Moment” program to celebrate the positive impact of meetings and conventions on the community. The program will honor organizations and events that incorporate sustainable practices, community engagement, and inclusivity annually. Recognition categories include Sustainability Champion, Community Engagement Excellence, and Social Inclusion Advocate.
“Our ‘Meeting the Moment’ honorees embody the spirit of Tampa Bay by embracing sustainable, inclusive, and community-driven practices,” says Santiago Corrada, president & CEO of Visit Tampa Bay. “We are delighted to recognize organizations that make meaningful, lasting impacts in our community and set an inspiring example within the industry for others to emulate.”
In other Visit Tampa Bay news, the DMO is investing $6 million in sales and marketing efforts, including $1.4 million into a November and December paid-media campaign, aimed at reminding travelers that now is the perfect time to plan their visit.
Tampa Bay is ready to welcome visitors back despite the recent storms, Milton and Helene. The campaign will highlight the region’s hotels, restaurants, and attractions, including the Florida Aquarium, ZooTampa at Lowry Park, the Museum of Science & Industry, and the Straz Center for the Performing Arts.
“The world witnessed our region’s resiliency in recent weeks as Tampa Bay fully reopened and welcomed visitors only days after dealing with back-to-back storms,” Corrada says. “Fortunately, our destination’s tourism and meetings infrastructure were unaffected. Our fall marketing campaign is designed with one central idea in mind—if travelers are looking for a place that is ready to show them adventure, relaxing vibes, and delicious dining, then Tampa Bay and its warm weather, blue skies, luxury hotels, Michelin-rated restaurants, and heart-stopping attractions is the place to be.”
