Governance, Accountability and Performance
Travel Oregon is committed to transparency and accountability in how we allocate resources to support and grow Oregon’s tourism economy. Our funding comes largely from the 1.5% statewide lodging tax, and every dollar we invest is guided by our mission to inspire travel that uplifts communities, preserves natural places and boosts local economies.
To to understand who we are and what we do, watch the Travel Oregon 101 video:
Where Our Funds Come From
In 2003, HB 2267 established Travel Oregon as a semi-independent state agency and created a state transient lodging tax at a rate of 1% to provide funds for Oregon’s tourism programs. HB 4146 (2016) increased the transient lodging tax rate from 1% to 1.8% for July 1, 2016, to July 1, 2020. On July 1, 2020, the rate decreased to 1.5%. ORS 320.335 authorizes the Department of Revenue to collect and retain up to 2% of tax collected and remitted (net of a 5% fee retained by the transient lodging tax collector) for administrative expenses. The Department of Revenue reports taxes remitted and processed monthly by region and distributes the balance to the Oregon Tourism Commission monthly.
Visitors pay this tax when they stay overnight in hotels, motels, RV parks, short-term vacation rentals and campgrounds across Oregon.
To learn more about the Transient Lodging Tax, watch the video below:
Our Annual Budget Allocation & Impact
Every area of our spending is designed to deliver measurable returns—both economically and socially. Here is how we invest and why each dollar counts:
Destination Marketing & Sales
We use data-driven, inspirational marketing to draw visitors to Oregon through ad campaigns, international outreach, content creation and partnerships. These efforts help fuel Oregon’s tourism economy, as studies show every $1 spent on marketing generates $157 in visitor spending across the state, spurring job creation, tax revenue and local business growth.
Domestic & Global Public Relations
We share Oregon’s story with travel writers, journalists and content creators who reach our domestic and international target markets, often inviting them to experience Oregon’s world-class culinary, wellness opportunities, outdoor recreation experiences and rich cultural traditions. Their stories help strengthen Oregon’s image as a must-visit destination. Take a look at our latest earned media coverage reports, which also inform future content planning and media investments to ensure we are supporting every corner of the state.
Destination Stewardship & Promotion
We directly invest 30% of our budget each year into Oregon’s communities through the dedicated Regional Cooperative Tourism Program and Competitive Grants Programs in line with ORS 284.131. These investments, grants and programs enhance, expand and promote the visitor industry, supporting everything from trail restoration and signage to tourism infrastructure development and community-led events, enhancing experiences for visitors and residents alike.
Tourism Industry Support
We convene and collaborate with tourism industry partners to help develop strategies that enhance visitor experiences and spark new development and stewardship through early investments. Our Destination Services team does this work through Destination Learning Communities, training, toolkits and direct assistance.
Our Insights & Impact department does this through regular industry communications, by working with media and policymakers to help share the value of tourism, by supporting tourism workforce development programs and through our annual Governor’s Conference on Tourism.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI)
We invest in programs that expand access to travelers and tourism entrepreneurs, ensuring underrepresented voices and places are included and celebrated.
Research & Analytics
We lead the development of economic impact reports, weekly lodging dashboards, visitor surveys, resident sentiment reports and more that guide not only Travel Oregon’s strategy, but also the strategy of our tourism partners across the state. Take a look at our latest research and analytics.
Financial Accountability & Oversight
A nine-person, governor-appointed board appoints and evaluates the agency’s CEO and oversees and approves the budget and strategic plan that directs the actions of Travel Oregon staff. The plan is subject to the review of the Governor, Legislature and industry organizations.
The role of an Oregon Tourism Commission (OTC) board member is to elevate their unique perspective garnered from experiences working in and with the travel and tourism industry. Their insights provide a statewide, industry-wide viewpoint as they guide Travel Oregon staff in creating programs of work to support industry partners across the state.
A Commission member’s role is to be engaged in commission meetings; be familiar with Travel Oregon’s strategic plan, communications and quarterly reports; and to be informed tourism advocates. They engage in local, regional, national and/or international tourism industry opportunities where expertise is valued as a member of the OTC.
In compliance with the Oregon Transparency Program’s Reporting Requirements, please find links below to Travel Oregon budgets and financial reports.
