Southern Economic Development Council

How to Incorporate Tourism Into Econ Dev Strategy

Unlock the power of tourism to boost your community’s economic development. The US tourism industry generates $1.9 trillion annually and supports 9.5 million jobs. This webinar will share successful tourism strategies from communities across North America and provide actionable steps to integrate tourism into your economic development plan. Learn how to leverage tourism to create jobs, increase economic output, and enhance the overall vitality of your community.

Presenters:
Amanda Jenkins, Director of Remote Work and Recruitment
Amanda Jenkins is the Director of Remote Work and Recruitment at Golden Shovel Agency. A former Economic Developer, Mayor, and City Councilmember in rural California, Amanda has driven economic growth by championing tourism initiatives. Her experience includes sourcing and training remote talent while helping communities showcase their unique assets. Amanda’s travels to over 25 countries provide valuable perspectives on global tourism trends and strategies for attracting visitors.

Chuck Friedbauer, Director of Content Management
As Director of Content Management at Golden Shovel Agency, Chuck Friedbauer leads a team dedicated to crafting stories that promote tourism and economic development nationwide. With over a decade of experience as a journalist, Chuck brings a unique perspective on strategies that effectively attract visitors. He collaborates with communities to address content challenges and create narratives that inspire exploration and growth.