Diversity in Tourism Fund

The tourism industry's greatest asset is the cultural diversity of the destinations and communities it visits. However, the tourism industry workforce is not illustrative of this very principle. Grants directly support programs and activities that increase diversity, equity, and inclusion within travel, build capacity for underrepresented markets, and amplify voices representative of the entire travel and tourism industry.

Geographic Scope: Global

Focus Areas:

• Diversity, equity, and inclusion within travel and tourism
• Representation of underrepresented groups in the travel industry
• Professional development for underrepresented individuals
• Training and certification programs
• Talent development
• Market research and product development
• Mentoring and academic study programs

Eligible Grant Activities:

• Training, certification, talent development, market research, and product development
• Costs associated with mentoring, training, or academic study for professional development programs that advance and upskill individuals and/or organizations
• Programs that increase diversity, equity, and inclusion within travel
• Capacity building for underrepresented markets

Eligible Applicants:

• Nonprofit organizations
• Social enterprises
• Programs focused on underrepresented individuals and groups in travel and tourism (Black, Indigenous, and other historically underrepresented individuals)

Notable Grantee: Pathways Project - Partnership between Tourism Cares, TreadRight, TRIP School, and the Media Arts Institute of Alabama, designed to increase representation of Black, Indigenous, and other historically underrepresented individuals in travel and tourism with focus on guided tour space. Program includes online learning, active mentorship, and in-person training boot camp with employment assistance upon graduation.

Application Process: Grants are awarded on a rolling basis. While nominations are accepted, grants are largely by invitation only.