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.

Is the $15,000 a cash or in-kind benefit? In-Kind

Does my business have to be based in San Diego? Yes, businesses must be based within the City of San Diego and/or County of San Diego.

What is the time commitment of the program? 4-6 hours a month for a 12-month program

What is the size of the cohort? 10-15 businesses

Do non-profits organizations qualify? Yes

What types of businesses are excluded? Any type of accommodation, airline or cruise line.

Does a start-up business qualify?

• Organizations must have operated for at least one (1) year to qualify.
• Organizations must be registered to do business in CA and be in operation for at least one (1) year.

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.