Six destination marketing organizations—also called convention and visitors bureaus—have been accredited by the Destination Marketing Association International for meeting universal operating standards.

The new recipients achieved accreditation through DMAIs Destination Marketing Accreditation Program, where applicants must prove compliance with 54 mandatory and 33 voluntary standards. The organizations earning accreditation include: Alexandria (Va.) Convention and Visitors Association; Boise (Idaho) CVB; Greater Louisville CVB; Greater Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades (Fla.) CVB; Visit Milwaukee; and Tourisme Montreal. They join nine other DMOs with DMAI’s stamp of approval.

“We are very pleased to recognize these DMOs for providing outstanding services in accordance with international standards and benchmarks in this field,” remarked Barry Biggar, DMAP Board Chair, in a news release. “By applying for and receiving DMAP accreditation, they have demonstrated a commitment to quality programs and services.”

The accreditation program provides a platform for DMOs to communicate to visitors and stakeholders that they “have achieved the highest accepted standards," commented Michael Gehrisch, president and CEO at DMAI, in a news release. Standards cover a variety of topics including governance, finance, management, human resources, technology, visitor services, group services, sales, communications, membership, brand management, destination development, research/market intelligence, innovation, and stakeholder relationships.

Applications are accepted three times per year and are limited to 25 applications per review cycle. For information, click here.