AIANTA and Destinations International launch partnership to expand Indigenous tourism

The American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association and Destinations International have signed a two-year strategic partnership to promote U.S. Indigenous tourism globally, according to AIANTA. The agreement was finalized at the Destinations International 2025 Annual Convention in Chicago.

AIANTA CEO Sherry Rupert said the collaboration will elevate Indigenous perspectives in global tourism and provide tools for respectful engagement with Native communities. Destinations International, which represents over 9,000 professionals in 23 countries, brings a network of destination organizations and convention bureaus to the effort. According to the Economic Impact of U.S. Indigenous Tourism Businesses Report, Indigenous-owned hospitality businesses contribute $11.6 billion annually to the U.S. tourism sector.