MSU Extension’s tourism team works statewide addressing community needs and interests in leveraging assets and resources for tourism development. A variety of programs exist to assist a community or region in becoming a destination or launch initiatives to strengthen existing tourism offerings. Programs are specifically designed to involve local leaders and stakeholders in a collaborative process for developing regional synergies and inclusiveness, exploring niche markets and/or capitalizing on the results of community assessments by first-time visitors. Ultimately, programs can form the basis for future development, spawn local leadership, and strengthen community vitality.
- Increase awareness of assets and opportunities.
- Increase knowledge of best practices, trends and changes.
- Develop new leadership roles, opportunities and action items.
- Foster new collaborations and plans among stakeholders to advance community driven tourism.
News
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City of Allegan strives to be more welcoming after capturing first-time visitor perspectives
Published on March 5, 2024
The First Impressions Tourism assessment supports community economic development by facilitating growth of local and regional tourism economies. -
Agritourism Summit and Pre-Summit Farm Tour set for May 7-8 in Traverse City
Published on February 29, 2024
Register now for the inaugural Agritourism Summit and Farm Tour, featuring educational sessions and networking opportunities. -
First Impressions Tourism assessment assists communities in understanding assets and unique qualities through first time visitor experiences and perspectives
Published on January 19, 2024
Three communities find outside visitors’ perspectives beneficial to strengthening their rural tourism economies and development efforts. -
Sustainability speaker series: Paving the path to a greener future
Published on December 1, 2023
New speaker series offers opportunity to “lunch and learn” with a variety of sustainability topics. -
Michigan coastal community recognizes MSU Extension program as a catalyst for community and economic development
Published on November 14, 2023
Four years after the City of St. Clair participated in the First Impressions Tourism (FIT) Program through MSU Extension, community leaders recognized the project as catalyst for “Freighter Walk” success.
Contact
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Andy Northrop, M.A.
Statewide Government and Community Vitality, Sustainable Tourism Educator
northro5@msu.edu
810-989-6331