Tourism Accelerator Frequently Asked Questions

The Tourism Accelerator will offer participants a program of support valued at over $15,000:

• Business services and coaching from the top providers in San Diego in finance, risk management, commercial real estate, operations and marketing.
• A $500 voucher for a course through UC San Diego Extension.*
• Free advertising in brochure racks at over 450 locations in San Diego from Certified Folder.
• A $1,000 credit to use on SDTA’s digital advertising platforms.
• Free advertising with media partners.**

• Applicants must be tourism and hospitality businesses based in the San Diego region.
• Applicants are highly recommended to be businesses owned by women, veterans, people of color, people with disabilities, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, or other types of underrepresented groups.
• Applicants are highly recommended to be businesses with a focus on environmental sustainability.
• Organizations must have operated for at least one (1) year to qualify.
• Organizations must be registered to do business in CA.
• Business categories may be, but are not limited to, restaurants, retail, activities and attractions, museums, transportation, and meeting and event services.
• Excluded businesses: any type of accommodation, airline or cruise line.
• Current or former members of the San Diego Tourism Authority (and all affiliated organizations) are not eligible.

• A diverse panel, comprised of program sponsors and the San Diego Tourism Authority board and staff, will review applications and select participants.
• Other selection criteria include: viability of the business model, business needs and commitment to community service.
• Businesses not selected are eligible for a 50% discount on SDTA Membership for the current Membership term.

Applications for the 2026 cohort open in the Fall. 

Contact Info

619-557-2863

[email protected]

*Maximum value of the voucher is $500.00 towards the enrollment of one (1) class. There is no cash value. If the value of the course selected is below $500.00 there will be no refund on the balance.
**Current advertisers with media partners may be ineligible for the advertising benefit.