Why Guides Program
The Why Guides registry is currently closed to new business applications and will re-open in Fall 2025.
Not sure if you’re already signed up or want to be notified when the program re-opens in Fall 2025? Email hilary@traveloregon.com.
Travel Oregon’s Why Guides program is an agency-wide effort to recognize and promote tourism industry operators, guides and outfitters as one of the state’s top tourism assets. This community is made up of local experts who help travelers discover unique experiences, follow destination management principles and provide land stewardship throughout the state, creating a memorable and sustainable experiences for visitors.
At the end of the most recent registration period, the Why Guides program grew to 170 tour operator, guide and outfitter businesses. Why Guides receive priority marketing and promotion in the US and around the globe through thoughtful promotions, ad campaigns, news segments, sales collateral, tradeshows and media events. Participating businesses also receive exclusive access to numerous educational trainings and networking opportunities for their guides, provided at no cost by Travel Oregon.
Program Goals
- Inspire and engage visitors in how to safely and responsibly visit Oregon communities/the outdoors.
- Strengthen destination management efforts by investing in tour guides, operators and outfitters.
- Give visitors access to local experts and Oregon’s unique experiences and places.
- Directly market small, locally owned industry businesses as viable contributors to the state’s economy.
Registry Requirements
There are three requirements for joining the Why Guides registry:
- You are a tour operator, guide or outfitter business/non-profit predominantly offering Oregon-based guided experiences in natural landscapes and/or experiences that transport visitors between multiple destination assets and businesses.
- Your business has obtained all current and necessary permits and insurance, and your guides have all received the necessary safety certifications relevant to the experiences you provide.
- You have claimed or are in the process of claiming your Google Business Profile (GBP).
Registry Benefits
Participation in the Why Guides registry will allow us to showcase your business across Travel Oregon marketing, promotion and media efforts such as:
- Newsletter and website stories
- Local news segments
- Social media promotion
- Media pitches
- Industry Spotlight features
- Inclusion in photo and video assets
- Domestic and international trade and consumer sales promotions
- Participation in future familiarization tours for trade and/or media
While specific promotions are not guaranteed, your participation in the Why Guides registry will help us tell the story of why guides will be one of the most memorable and sustainable experiences of a visitor’s trip to Oregon.
Participation in the program also provides exclusive access to programs, trainings and networking opportunities at no cost or subsidized rates to help guide & outfitter businesses align with industry-wide initiatives and support business and guide development. Guides enrolled in the program will receive information and direct invitations to participate in these programs from Travel Oregon throughout the year. Examples of trainings and opportunities provided in years past include:
- Access to the Digital Marketing Boost Program
- Scholarships to attend industry conferences and events
- Networking opportunities to connect with other guides & outfitters
- Free CPR & First Aid trainings
- Access to Oregon State University educational programs
