Why Guides Program
The Why Guides registry is currently closed. The registry will re-open in Fall 2024.
Not sure if you’re already signed up? Email hilary@traveloregon.com to confirm.
Miss the registration deadline for 2023? Take advantage of Travel Oregon’s other resources for Guides & Outfitters and send an email to hilary@traveloregon.com to share your interest in joining the Why Guides program next year.
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 last year’s registration, the Why Guides program grew to over 130 tour operators, guides and outfitters partners. 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. Over the last two years, 33 guides have participated in the no-cost Digital Marketing Boost program, receiving wrap-around assessments of their digital marketing and ten hours of hands-on support making updates and improvements to websites, social media, and other digital platforms.
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.
Program Goals
- Inspire and engage visitors about safety regulations and respect 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 product.
- Directly market small, locally owned industry businesses as viable contributors to the state’s economy.
Registry Requirements
There are four requirements for joining the Why Guides registry:
- You are an Oregon-based tour operator, guide or outfitter business or non-profit selling experiences in Oregon.
- You are have obtained all current and necessary permits and insurance.
- You have claimed or are in the process of claiming your Google Business Profile (GBP) and signed up for Travel Oregon’s Locl Program.
