2023 Chair's Message

January 3, 2023

2022 was a remarkable year for NYSTIA, reflecting increased member engagement, expanded programming and new initiatives intended to provide ever-increasing member value.

We were privileged and grateful to be able to manage a Market New York grant investment for Tourism Recovery & Resurgence in 2022 and early 2023, distributing $535,000 in grant financing in support of marketing and sales initiatives undertaken by over 60 New York State tourism destinations and businesses. Thank you to Governor Hochul and our colleagues at ESD/I LOVE NY for their support of NYSTIA's grant proposal.  

An agenda packed with valuable programming and dynamic speakers generated record-breaking event attendance at the 2023 New York State Tourism Conference (April 21, 22 & 23  in White Plains, Westchester County). An equally dynamic lineup  at the 2022 Annual Meeting (October 26, 27 & 28 in New York City) surpassed all expectations with paid attendance 40% greater than the previous best attended year. Member feedback regarding the agenda, networking opportunities and business meetings  from both events was outstanding. 

NYSTIA efforts to share industry insights along with member news and announcements reached new heights with the launch of a regularly scheduled (Tuesday) weekly newsletter, expanded news posts and events calendar on the NYSTIA website and increased posting volume on our social media platforms. 

I am pleased to report that: 

• Our growing newsletter distribution (+50% in 2022) has not diminished the remarkable open (54%) and click (8%) rates; 
• Our social audience following has doubled in the past twelve months;
• NYSTIA welcomed 41 new members in 2022, a new 12 month record.  

As we look forward to 2023, please note that both of our events this year are in key canal communities, with the New York State Tourism Conference in Oswego (April 19, 20, 21) and the New York State Tourism Excellence Awards / NYSTIA Annual Meeting in Rochester (Sept. 13, 14, 15). New York State's highly anticipated National Marine Sanctuaries, the Erie Canal system, Empire State Trail and other New York State outdoor assets will be the subject of considerable focus and discussion, particularly in Oswego.